Kayakers put in one last time and the hikers suited up for their last trek. On the calm waters of the Kissimmee River, kayakers reflect on the 12-day expedition
“The chain of lakes was wonderful, the number of bald eagles, we saw bald eagles almost every day, the restored section of the Kissimmee River was really a big deal for me with all the wildlife, the birds and the alligators,” said Doug Alderson from Florida Greenways and Trails.
“Being able to go through each day and seeing the real Florida” was Julia Recker from Osceola County Parks and Recreation’s favorite part of the trip.
Bob Mindick from Osceola County Parks and Recreation called the expedition a “great journey, long journey.”
The wildlife moves about their morning, curious for a moment, then disappearing, unaware these travelers have crossed one creek, four lakes, four canals, six locks and one river to reach their goal.
As they pass the gator-lined shores in the Kissimmee River leading out to Lake Okeechobee, they know they have made it.
Back on land, the hikers push through the muck to reach the lake, to reunite with their fellow travelers and fling more muck.
“We may all be covered in mud right now, but we are a pretty diverse group of people all brought together for this expedition,” Alderson said. “It’s good to be here.”
“Woo-hoo, just can’t wait to throw in the anchorwoman,” said Ian Brown from the Florida Trail Association.
And they did.
Day 12 and the Expedition: Kissimmee River team finally made it to Lake Okeechobee. They hiked and kayaked for more than 140 miles to reach their goal.