HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. – The Hillsborough County Hiking Spree, a popular annual event encouraging residents to explore the county’s natural beauty, has reached its midpoint. To celebrate, a Mid-Spree Summit will be held this weekend, offering hikers of all levels a chance to connect with nature and each other.
The Mid-Spree Summit will take place at Stephen J. Wortham Park, located at 12108 Rhodine Rd., Riverview, FL 33579, on Saturday, March 1, from 9 a.m. to noon. Admission is free, but registration is required. Participants can register in advance online at Mid-Spree Summit Registration or register on-site the day of the event.
READ: Red Tide Persists Off Florida’s Gulf Coast, High Concentrations Detected In Monroe County
Attendees can look forward to a variety of activities, including guided hikes, family-friendly games, food trucks, and a “make-your-own” trail mix station. Exhibitors will also be present, offering educational materials, community resources, and giveaways.
Now in its ninth year, the Hillsborough County Hiking Spree has become a beloved tradition, attracting thousands of participants each year. The 2024-2025 spree, which began on December 1 and runs through April 30, 2025, features approximately two dozen trails across 21 parks and preserves throughout the county.
Participants who complete at least eight of the designated trails will earn a limited-edition patch, a medallion for a walking stick, or a pet bandana. The trails offer a diverse range of environments, from neighborhood parks to large preserves with multiple habitats, catering to residents of all ages and abilities. Trails are rated as easy, moderate, or strenuous, with lengths ranging from under a mile to several miles. Many trails are also wheelchair-accessible.
Read: Florida Lawmakers Propose New Standards For Drilling Near Apalachicola River
The Hiking Spree is timed to take advantage of Florida’s cooler, drier weather and coincides with prime bird-watching season, making it an ideal time to explore the outdoors.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.
