We Met at Miami Hiking Club
We’re headed back to the Everglades! For the second year in a row, We Met in Miami and Miami Hiking Club are teaming up to kick off the new year with new adventures and new connections. On Saturday, Jan. 3, break the ice and wade into the swamp during this free guided Everglades hike designed for adults 21+ seeking new friends or romantic connections. Meet us at Gator Hook Trail in the Big Cypress National Preserve for a five-mile hike featuring stunning nature views and wildlife sightings. We’ll connect along the way, with icebreakers and a mid-hike break for snacks and conversations. NOTE: Use this link for the address: bit.ly/2026gatorhook [https://bit.ly/2026gatorhook] Looking for a new friend or a romantic spark? Our wristbands show others what we’re looking for: 💚 green for love 💙 blue for friendship 🌈 rainbow for members of the LGBTQIA+ community 💌 if you meet someone special, we’ll help you reconnect after the event IMPORTANT INFORMATION AND FAQ: How should I prepare? All participants are required to sign a digital waiver prior to arriving at the event: click here [https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/w/xjzosq6b8xuhh4gvphy7mh/web/]. Where will we meet up? Use this address: bit.ly/2026gatorhook [https://bit.ly/2026gatorhook] From Tamiami Trail/US-41, you'll make a left at the start of Loop Road. The trailhead will be 2.2 miles south from US-41. You'll see us at the picnic tables on the left hand side. There are only pit toilets at the trailhead and no water fountains, so make sure to stop at Oasis Visitor Center, which is 4.4 miles east of Loop Road. This location is about an hour and a half west of Miami, so give yourself enough travel time in order to arrive by 10 a.m. We will begin the hike at 10:30 a.m. sharp. Will this be a wet hike? Yes! Come prepared to walk in knee deep water (depending on weather conditions leading up to the hike). The best wet-walk shoes are the pair of walking shoes you are okay with getting muddy and wet! We recommend bringing a hiking pole or walking stick for balance (a wooden broom works great). Will we see alligators? How will we stay safe? While we occasionally encounter wildlife (alligators, turtles, snakes), it is usually from a safe distance and not directly on the trails. Due to the size of our group, wildlife typically quickly scatters and not everyone may get an opportunity to see it. As a safety precaution, if we encounter wildlife directly on the trail, we will wait at a distance or change direction. We encourage all to admire wildlife from a distance. What should I wear? * Shoes: Closed-toe shoes (that can get WET), plus an extra pair of shoes/socks for the drive back. * Hat: Any hat that's comfortable in the heat and protects your face from the sun. * Clothing: Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing is best. Long sleeves, long pants, and socks that cover your ankles. Whatever is comfortable for you to wear in warm weather. * TIP: Perfume and scented deodorants tend to attract mosquitos and other bugs. It’s okay to smell; we accept you and prefer you don’t get bit. What should I bring? * Water: Bring a big water bottle for the hike and another in your car for after the hike. In Florida, always opt to bring more water than less. * Snacks for the trail * Sunscreen * Bug spray * Towel or blanket * Hiking pole/walking stick: It provides extra support for any slippery spots, knees, or balance. Any stick that will help you balance will work, such as a hiking pole, wooden mop handle, or any other sturdy stick that is about shoulder-height or longer. Learn more about your hosts: We Met in Miami is a 501(c)3 nonprofit facilitating love and friendship for adults 21+ through community service, civic engagement and the arts. Our mission is to overcome loneliness, foster connection and create spaces for community to thrive. Sign up for email updates here [https://docs.google.com/forms/u/6/d/e/1FAIpQLScyRyBN07uXxMpjjnRo5NVrPwZ7k9VwEHH45iV1i1XIsdkUkQ/viewform?usp=send_form]and follow us on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/wemetinmiami/]. Miami Hiking Club is a casual group of volunteers leading urban and wilderness hikes with the goal of introducing new and experienced hikers to the natural beauty of South Florida, building community, and protecting and respecting the land and its people.
