Town of KICCO via Florida Trail

You can typically find parking at the Town of KICCO Campground, which serves as a common access point for this section of the Florida Trail. Always check local regulations for specific parking instructions.

This section of the Florida Trail can be quite challenging, especially due to potentially wet and rough conditions, particularly in its northern parts. It's generally not recommended for first-time hikers. Some portions may involve wading, and there are dangerous roadwalks to consider. Hikers should be prepared for varied conditions and potential challenges.

The trail offers a diverse landscape, including ancient live oak hammocks, scrub, cypress strands, and pine-palmetto flatwoods. You'll also traverse extensive marshes of Blanket Bay Slough and vast cattle pastures. The route often skirts the Kissimmee River floodplain, providing panoramic views of marshes bustling with birds. You might cross footbridges over ditches, such as the Footbridge into water.

The diverse habitats support abundant wildlife. Keep an eye out for white-tailed deer, alligators, bald eagles, wild turkeys, hawks, wading birds, and sandhill cranes. The threatened crested caracara has also been observed in the KICCO Wildlife Management Area. Marshes busy with birds are a common sight.

The KICCO section can be very wet or even impassable during times of high water, particularly in its northern reaches. It's advisable to hike during drier seasons to avoid extensive wading. Always check current trail conditions before heading out.

Yes, permits are required for designated campsites within the KICCO Wildlife Management Area. Additionally, hunting is permitted in KICCO WMA, so hikers must check hunt dates and wear bright orange clothing during hunting seasons for safety. There are no general entrance fees for day hiking.

While specific regulations for dogs on this exact trail segment are not detailed, it's common for Florida Wildlife Management Areas to have specific rules regarding pets, often requiring them to be on a leash. Always check the latest regulations for the KICCO WMA before bringing your dog.

Potable water sources are limited along this trail. If you find water, such as near culverts in Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park, filtering it is strongly advised against due to the presence of alligators and potential contamination. It's best to carry all the water you will need for your hike.

Yes, there are significant safety concerns. A 5.3-mile stretch along SR 60 between KICCO and Three Lakes is particularly dangerous due to heavy, high-speed traffic and narrow shoulders. Hikers are advised to stay well off the road shoulder and exercise extreme caution. You may also encounter cattle, including bulls, requiring caution. Additionally, be aware of hunting seasons in the KICCO WMA and wear bright orange clothing if hiking during those times.

Along the route, you'll pass by the Town of KICCO Campground, the S-65 Gate and spillway, and a unique Footbridge into water. The trail also offers scenic views of the Kissimmee River floodplain.

Yes, this route is entirely part of the Florida National Scenic Trail - Southern Region, which is a significant long-distance trail in Florida.