Information for the Yearling Trail Field Trip
The Yearling Trail
is about 5 miles on a well marked, sandy trail. Part of the trail joins
The Florida National Scenic Trail. We will go at a comfortable pace
with time to look at several numbered points of interest and stop for
drinks and snacks. The trail is in The Juniper Prairie Wilderness, a
nationally designated wilderness zone. We have to pack in, and out,
everything we might need. After hiking the trail, we will drive
to Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historical State Park. We will stop for dinner on our way home.
You are responsible for bringing the following items:
1. A comfortable back pack for the trail
2.
Closed toe sturdy shoes for the trail and an extra pair of shoes to
have in the car. If rain is predicted, bring a good rain jacket
or poncho and an extra full change of clothes in a plastic bag to keep
in the car in case we get soaked on the trail.
3. Wear long pants and dress in layers. It will probably be a little cool when we start out and warm up as the day goes on.
4. Have a hat and bring sunscreen. There is very little shade on the prairie.
5. Bring plenty of drinks. Have at least 1 quart of water or sport drink on the trail with you.
6.
Pack a lunch and snacks that you can eat easily. We will probably snack
a bit throughout the day and have a longer lunch break on the trail.
7.
Pack a plastic bag for trash. Make a “bathroom kit in a bag”. Put
folded toilet paper, a sandwich bag (for carrying out soiled TP), and a
few hand wipes in a quart or sandwich size ziplock bag. Zip it
shut and tuck it conveniently in your pack.
8. Pack a small
personal first aid kit with a few bandages, Chap Stick or other items
that you need for personal comfort. We will have a complete kit with us.
9.
You may wish to bring a camera. Don’t count on being able to get
pictures with your cell phone. Do not bring any entertainment devices
(mp3, video game, etc) on the trail.
Safety on the trail:
1.
If you need to stop, let the closest adult know. We will find a good
spot to let you step off the trail and stay near you until you are back
on the trail.
2. Be aware and alert to your surroundings. This
is a wilderness area. There are roots, logs and things you may trip on
if you are not paying attention. If you see wildlife, including
snakes, stop, observe it carefully and let them move on. Snakes
are not a problem on the trail, although you may be lucky enough to see
one cross the trail. Be smart and help keep yourself safe. Do not
play in the brush, pick up or rollover logs, or cut through shrubby
areas.
3. Stay on the trail and with the group. Do not go ahead
out of sight of the lead adult and do not fall behind the “sweep” or
last adult.
Explorers Club
Trail Map
If you use Google Earth: Yearling Trail parking: N 29.245, W 81.648
Marjorie Rawlings State Park: N 29.481, W 82.160
Yearling Restaurant: N 29.486, W 82.164
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