Justin Rogers, forestry recreation coordinator for the Florida Forest Service/Jacksonville District, on the Many Seeps bridge ...

They believe the Pioneer Trail — with more than 12 miles connecting recreation areas along Black Creek in Jennings State Forest — is one of the best hiking trails in Florida. Maybe even the best.

honors the neighborhood that was once the center of African American prosperity in Northeast Florida, according to Groundwork Jacksonville. Construction of the nine-phase trail began in August 2021.

Rogers is forestry recreation coordinator for the Florida Forest Service Jacksonville District. Chapman is a volunteer. They’re all avid hikers. Burley thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail in 1997.