I decided to backpack Ocala again after my trip last year (1,2). This time was shorter, only 3 days and 50 miles. The forecast changed for my 4th Day to steady rain and 40s during the day and freezing temperatures overnight. I was not ready for that so I called John for an early pick-up. I am quite wimpy.
It was peaceful hiking then I would be surprised by a fellow hiker along the trail. Over the trip I met 1 thru-hiker traveling south, 5 day hikers, and 7 overnight hikers. Oh, and a Boy Scout troop hiking the trail. Compared to my West Virginia trip, this was a busy but very flat easy hike.
The most interesting encounter was a place called Hidden Pond. The locals hike out to this camping spot. I was there to fill up on water when I noticed 5 teenagers preparing to camp. There were reports of an aggressive bear there just a few days ago. I warned them but being teenagers, they felt they could fight the bear or something. The next morning they hadn’t seen the bear but had heard it. Nope...I was happy to be camping elsewhere.
I didn’t see that many animals: sandhill cranes, egrets, herons, deer, and squirrel. I also saw bear scat and bobcat tracks.
Went through one area that had a controlled burn 4 days before. A few logs were still smoking.
With 50’s most days, the hiking was good. No sweating! So, an enjoyable trip.
