As part of the Florida National Scenic Trail, this particular segment follows Herbert Hoover Dike and water-control structures constructed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in the 1940s to control flooding and drain the northern Everglades. Today, the lake supplies water to the vast metropolis of Miami and surrounding communities.

On average, the levee rises about 20 feet above the lake's level resulting in expansive views and a worry-free primitive camping location. The trail is contiguous with Okeechobee East , West, and Southwest Trails affording an adventure that circles the entire 467,200-acre lake. When broken by canal entries, bridges serve as connectors. Because the route is so distinctive, no maps are available.

Primitive camping is permitted at specified sites. Campers may also stay at one of the many lakeside campgrounds or fishing camps located at water's edge.

Okeechobee Southeast begins in the Canal Point Recreation Area at the actual point where signs direct hikers to a gated dike. This particular segment of trail extends 29.2 miles, terminating in the town of Clewiston at the floodgate located at the US 27 Bridge. One of your first developed encounters will be Pahokee Recreation Area at 3.5 miles, camping is permitted. The next supply area is eleven miles later at a local's fish camp. This southeast stretch is a good place to fish. The small chain of islands in South Bay create a narrow channel named Rim Canal.

Sunscreen and bug repellent recommended.

Directions: From Canal Point Rec Area, At the intersection of US 441 and 98 lies Canal Point Recreation Area. At Canal Point, signs direct hikers to a gated dike.

Elevation: 20 feet

Elevation Gain: Minimal

Difficulty: Easy/Moderate

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