Q: Hi. I would like some info on the trail from State Road 41 to Alligator Alley. I know it's about 25 miles one way. Interested in ride-back availability and whether ATVs are allowed on the trail. We're planning a winter trip when the heat and bugs aren't as bad. I spent many days swamp hunting as a kid with my family and would like to see it again and show my girlfriend, who is excited about going on a camping / hiking trip. Thank you.

A: That sounds like an adventurous date, there, my friend.

I believe what you're talking about is part of the Florida National Scenic Trail. This trail winds from this southernmost point, which you're talking about, all the way to the western panhandle near Alabama. Anyone can walk on the Florida National Scenic Trail, but in order to walk on those sections that are on privately owned land, you must be a member of the Florida Trail Association (FTA).

So the best source of information on this part of the trail, which I haven't walked myself, is the Florida Trail Association's Big Cypress South section 42 area. While you're at the FTA Web site, you may consider purchasing a hard copy of the trail map to take with you.

For ride-back availability, I'm guessing you want to walk one way, then ride back to where you started. If you have a friend waiting for you on Alligator Alley, go for it!

As for ATVs (all-terrain vehicles, or ORVs, off-road vehicles), the issue of restricting their use in the Big Cypress National Preserve has been in the news lately. Hunters want to continue to use their swamp buggies to get around the preserve, but conservationists want the buggies banned because of the impact they have on the land. The final word on ATVs / ORVs in Big Cypress? The new plan "allows for the use of off-road vehicles, but stipulates that this use will be controlled in a manner that does not impair the resources of the preserve."

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