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On the Trails
Florida is fortunate to be in the middle of the development of a series of trails that is very impressive in its scope and variety – from woods, to swamps, to
hills, to the beach. Various entities of the state of Florida and the U.S. Government have purchased a large amount of land to protect the
environment from the run-away development for which Florida is famous. The good news is that most of this land is available for the
development of equine trails. It’s a great time to be in Florida.
One particularly interesting example is the Cross Florida Greenway. Early in this
century, the state decided to build a barge canal across Florida to assist commercial interests. Later in the century the decision was made
to abandon the project. The state had purchased a strip of land entirely across Florida and some of the canal was dug, locks built, and
filled with water. However, most if it was never touched and much that was dug was never filled with water. Recently, the state has returned
this land to the counties through which it passes. The result is a wonderful resource of undeveloped land that is now available for trails
and other uses. The state recently built a horse bridge across I-75 at the point where the Greenway crosses. This enables us to ride for
literally hundreds of miles.
If you are planning to come to Florida to ride
during the winter, please give us a call and we can direct you to some great trails.
Florida Fox Trotter Association members on a trail ride at Dupuis Forest in South Florida.
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Avalon and Jim experience a dip in the Atlantic Ocean
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Rhythm and Kathie on the Trail
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Florida Fox Trotter Association
The Florida Affiliate (FFTA) of the MFTHBA is an active group of Fox Trotter enthusiasts who
participate in activities promoting the breed and provide a wide variety of events for fox trotter owners. We sponsor the Florida Fox
Trotter Spectacular each year and hold a series of smaller shows and clinics throughout the year to help our members and others gain an
understanding of their horses and their gaits. Each month (except during the summer) we sponsor at least a couple of weekend trail rides
and campouts. Through the years, the Association has provided demonstrations illustrating the versatility of the Fox Trotting Horse.
We celebrate the Christmas season with a party and end our principal riding season in April with the Annual Gathering. This event draws a
large number of our 200 members and offers them an educational presentation, a trail ride, and a party with live music. It’s a
favorite social event of our year.
After retiring from being president for many years, Jim currently serves on the FFTA Board.
Members of the Florida Fox Trotter Association practice a demonstration routine.
Thanks for visiting the Woodward family.
We hope you will return soon – either virtually or in person.
We are glad you visited.
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