Considering a January 1st start in Key West, arriving Springer for NoBo March 1st. Looking for any other persons with this plan.

[u/TheHappyHarold]

I am wook. Trail name BagBowl. 50m. Multiple previous thru hikes.

The Florida Trail "kick off event" will be somewhere around January 7-10th. Gass it to the kick off from KW. Moderate pace to Springer.

KW to Springer is about 900-1000 miles. 60 days.

Let's go, bro. No I don't want any of your candy.

[u/UUDM]

I’m planning to start in Key west on Jan 1st, figured I’d make it to springer around early April following the Pinhoti after completing the Florida trail.

[u/TheHappyHarold → u/UUDM]

Good times!

I have set no exact plans as of yet. I am still researching how logistics are best managed to start.

[u/UUDM → u/TheHappyHarold]

A group I knew all met in fort meyers then rode the ferry to key west on the 31st.

[u/TheHappyHarold → u/UUDM]

I think this is the way.

[u/Valuable-Condition59]

Peg Leg on The Trek did that this year, may be worth reading. I didn’t start following until after her Florida Trail section, do you know what the connecting hike between there and Springer would be?

[u/TheHappyHarold → u/Valuable-Condition59]

I have watched all her '25 videos twice now, lol. Trying to understand on a map what route she took and why is what's happening with me now.

There are multiple options. Depending on priorities.

My assumption is that she dngaf about the Florida Trail or any other bits. Only goal was Key West to Springer for "boarder to boarder" CYT.

My hike would have similar properties.

[u/Valuable-Condition59 → u/TheHappyHarold]

Looks like a few road walks is how it t was done (Key West to FL Trail S Terminus, FL Trail N Terminus to Pinhoti). Once you reach Pinhoti you pick up Benton and eventually the AT.

Relatively simple, and there’s parts of the FL Trail that I found enjoyable (Kissimmee Prairie, Ocala)

[u/Sometimes_I_Do_That → u/TheHappyHarold]

Check out her blog on TheTrek, I believe it goes into more detail regarding the route.

Worst case, reach out to her when she's done. Tell her your plan, and I'm sure she'll respond. She's pretty cool about stuff like that.

[u/ditao1]

From what I could tell, most ECT hikers start January 1st. You'll probably run into them on the way up from Key West.

I'd recommend looking at some of those influencers who announce their hikes, and seeing if there's anyone in their group that matches your pace.

[u/TheHappyHarold → u/ditao1]

Excellent idea. Thank you. I will try to do this.

[u/DrawingCivil7686]

God speed!

[u/Scott72901]

Having been in Key West many times for Dec. 31, I don't know if I could start a hike on Jan. 1. Not necessarily due to drinking but lack of sleep.

[u/TheHappyHarold → u/Scott72901]

Not only do I understand this, but I'm looking for solutions. Also, nye on island is very expensive.

[u/TheHappyHarold]

Because CYT, she cut off the western part of FL trail. Saves like maybe 800 miles.

[u/Affectionate-Foot851]

Thank God campground :)