The Western Gate Chapter is the western most of the eighteen Chapters of the Florida Trail Association, drawing its membership from Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. The Chapter is responsible for building and maintaining sections of the 1300 mile Florida National Scenic Trail, or FNST,within the boundaries of these two counties In all,Western Gate maintains close to 100 miles of trail, much of it continuous, which makes multi-day backpacking trips possible. The FNST is connected on the north to the Alabama Hiking Trail Society's trail through the Conecuh National Forest. The trek continues north through the Pinhoti Trail, the Appalachian Trail, the International Appalachian Trail and ultimately the shores of Qurbec. The complete trail is called the Eastern Continental Trail. To the east the next section of the FNST is maintained by the Choctawhatchee Chapter, which draws its members from Okaloosa and Walton counties of Florida.
Western Gate regularly leads hikes,, canoe trips and bike excursions. Events are tailored to the capability of a variety of individuals, from a one hour walk around town before dinner to a ten mile cross country event. .
Western Gate regularly leads hikes,, canoe trips and bike excursions. Events are tailored to the capability of a variety of individuals, from a one hour walk around town before dinner to a ten mile cross country event. .