Frequently Asked Questions
COST
Use of the Tracked Chair is free of charge. A day pass is required on all vehicles entering the forest. A self-serve station is located at the Bear Pond Trailhead. Day-use entrance fees are $2.00 and can also be paid by calling 1-877-879-3859.
Trips are offered on Saturdays and Sundays at 9 am and 1 pm, excluding holidays.
ABOUT THE FOREST
The distinctive characteristic of the Seminole State Forest is its ecological diversity which includes almost all of the naturally occurring vegetative communities found in Central Florida. There are more than 17 different natural communities, each with unique plants, animals, and physical characteristics. A few examples are flatwoods, scrub, hydric hammock, and sandhill. The scrub provides an important habitat for many rare and threatened species such as the Florida black bear and scrub-jay. There are also 18 named springs throughout the forest.
WHAT YOU SHOULD BRING
If you have specific items that you rely on for your personal comfort, it is recommended you bring them. Thermoregulation is your responsibility so make a point to check the local weather forecast and bring adequate clothing to maintain an appropriate level of comfort. Here is a list of items you should consider bringing:
- Water (more than you think you need)
- Required medications and medical supplies
- Additional clothing layers
- Seat cushion
- Hat or sun visor
- Sunblock
- Sunglasses
- Pest repellent
- Snacks
- Camera
TRANSFER OPTIONS
A friend/relative/caregiver must accompany you to assist throughout your trip, including transfer into and out of the Tracked Chair. FSSF volunteers will also guide you and your friend along the trail.
PETS/SERVICE ANIMALS:
Due to the inherent risk posed by the Tracked Chair and concern for the safety of your pet or service animal, Tracked Chair operators are not permitted to possess pets/service animals while operating the Chair.
DIRECTIONS AND ARRIVAL
The Bear Pond Trailhead is located north of State Road 46, approximately 5.7 miles west of Interstate 4 (exit 51), at Wekiva River Road, Sorrento, 32776. GPS: N28° 49.152 W81° 25.685
Upon arrival, please proceed to the trailhead's entrance station. There are multiple handicap-accessible parking spaces in front of Bear Pond. A Tracked Chair staff volunteer will be there to greet you at the scheduled trip start time.
You will be accompanied by a volunteer though your journey on the trail. You can also expect to attract a fair amount of curiosity from your fellow trail users. Don’t be surprised to find yourself the center of attention! We’ve found forest visitors to be quite interested in the Tracked Chair and very supportive of the efforts to offer this unique opportunity.
Enjoy your time at Seminole State Forest! We appreciate your support of the Friends of Seminole State Forest Tracked Chair Program and are confident your experience will be a great one!