Everglades National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve that is a sprawling and iconic wilderness It is the largest tropical wilderness of any kind in the United States. The park is known for its unique and fragile ecosystem that is characterized by slow-flowing water that creates a “River of Grass” that encompasses sawgrass marshes, cypress swamps, and coastal mangroves. One nice thing about the hikes in this park was that most of the landscape is right around, or even below, sea level, which means dealing with elevation gain is almost nonexistent. The elevation gain is so unnoticeable that there were times I would hike for miles on end and both my Garmin GPS and my AllTrails app would not measure any changes, whatsoever. In addition to easier hikes, Everglades National Park is home to a remarkable collection of plant and animal species, including the elusive Florida panther, alligators, manatees, and a diverse range of birdlife. You can explore its various trails, scenic waterways, and famous spots like Shark Valley and Anhinga Trail to witness the extraordinary biodiversity and natural wonders that make the Everglades a globally significant and irreplaceable treasure of the natural world.
Fun Facts about Everglades National Park
- Ernest F. Coe formally pitched the idea of the Everglades becoming national park in 1928, but it wasn’t until December 6th, 1947, that it actually became one.
- At 2,357 square miles, Everglades National Park is the largest tropical wilderness of any kind in the U.S. and the third largest national park in the contiguous United States.
- Often referred to as the “River of Grass,” the Everglades is a slow-moving, shallow sheet of water that flows out of Lake Okeechobee and meanders through a vast area of wetlands.
- The park provides a refuge for several endangered and threatened species, including the Florida panther, American crocodile, and West Indian manatee.
- Everglades National Park is a haven for bird enthusiasts, hosting over 350 species of birds. It is a vital stopover point for migratory birds traveling between North and South America.
- Extensive mangrove forests along the park’s coastline serve as nurseries for various fish and invertebrates, playing a crucial role in the estuarine ecosystem.
- The park faces ongoing challenges from invasive species, such as the Burmese python, which has had a significant impact on native wildlife populations.
A Quick Look at Everglades National Park
- Best time of year to visit. December through April is the best time to visit because, although you will still have to deal with these aspects, bugs will be fewer, humidity and hot temperatures will be lower, and rainfall will be less frequent.
- How long to stay. I recommend at least three days in the park to get a good feeling of what it has to offer.
- How to get there. The Miami International Airport (MIA) is the closest commercial airline to the park. There are also three entrances into the park, including the Homestead Entrance, the Miami Entrance, and the Everglades City Entrance.
- Ways to get around. Driving is an excellent way to get around in the park and cover a lot of ground. However, having a boat, canoe, or kayak opens a whole new world of exploration opportunities within the less visited areas of the park. If you do not have a watercraft, there are also tours that will take you on the water.
- Places to Stay. Besides the Long Pine Key Campground and the Flamingo Campground, there are not any overnight accommodations available within the park. There are some lodging options available in communities that border the park, including Homestead, Florida City, Miami, Everglades City, and Chokoloskee. For people who would like to try wilderness camping, there are many ground sites, beach sites, and elevated camping platforms available throughout the park.
Things to Know Before Hiking in Everglades National Park
- Everglades National Park is in bear country. Carrying bear spray is highly recommended when hiking or staying in bear country or any areas that are homes to potentially dangerous wildlife. Bear spray is a specialized type of pepper spray that is proven to be effective in deterring aggressive wildlife in the event of close encounters. In addition to being effective, bear spray is also a non-lethal option, is quick and easy to use, provides safety for both humans and wildlife, and creates peace of mind while in the wilderness.
- Cell phone reception is limited in most of the park. Before you head to the park, I highly recommend that you download and have offline copies of any reservation details, directions, or permits. In my earlier days of traveling, there have been many times where I found myself driving unnecessary distances to areas with service just so I could access information that I should have already had saved.
- Have offline access to hiking trail maps. Unless you are skilled in using topographical maps, I highly recommend that you have downloaded versions of any trail that you plan on hiking. If you do not have access to a fancy GPS with tracking and SOS messaging in the case of an emergency, you should download the AllTrails app and upgrade to AllTrails+ for $35.99 a year. This upgrade lets you download topographical, satellite, and other varieties of offline trails, shows you where you are, how far you have gone, and how much longer you must go, as well as your elevation gain, speed, and estimated burned calories. I use it for every non-overnight hike that I do.
- Pack essential items and proper clothing. Some very basic, but essential items that should always be carried while hiking include a navigation system, a flashlight or headlamp, sun protection, a first aid kit, insect repellent, a knife, matches, a lighter, or a fire started, extra food and water beyond the minimum expectation, and extra clothes such as a rain jacket, wind breaker, and warmer layers. Some of these items may feel unnecessary at first glance but it is better to have something and not need it, than to need it and not have it.
- Everglades National Park charges an entry fee. These fees usually cost $35 and grant you a week of additional access to over 425 sites that are also run by the National Park Service. If you plan on visiting three or more parks within a year, then I recommend you purchase the America the Beautiful annual pass. This pass will make entering parks a bit quicker, much easier, and provides you with access to the same number of parks that the week-long pass does, but for an entire year.
Eleven Hikes You Cannot Miss in Everglades National Park
1. Pa-Hay-Okee Overlook Trail
- Length: 0.2 miles
- Elevation gain: Not noticeable
Pa-Hay-Okee Overlook Trail offers a captivating journey through one of Florida’s most unique ecosystems. This elevated boardwalk trail provides panoramic views of the expansive sawgrass prairies allowing you to immerse yourself in the vastness of the Everglades. The trail leads to a small tower that rises above the landscape and offers breathtaking views of the “River of Grass.” As you stroll along the boardwalk, you’ll encounter interpretive signs providing insights into the park’s plant life, including the remarkable adaptations of its wildlife to this watery wilderness. This trail provides an excellent opportunity to appreciate the beauty and ecological significance of Everglades National Park while enjoying a leisurely and informative hike.
2. Gumbo Limbo Trail
- Length: 0.5 miles
- Elevation gain: Not noticeable
This trail provides a captivating exploration of the park’s diverse ecosystems and offers you a unique and immersive experience. This short and scenic trail winds through a tropical hammock, offering plenty of shade as you meander beneath a canopy of gumbo limbo mahogany trees. There are interpretive signs along the trail provide valuable insights into the rich biodiversity of the region, highlighting the unique plant and animal species that live in this park. Additionally, this trail is a perfect place to see some of the wild air plants that can be seen in Everglades National Park.
3. Pinelands Trail
- Length: 0.4 miles
- Elevation gain: Not noticeable
Pinelands Trail offers a stunning journey through one of the park’s other unique ecosystems. This trail winds its way through a landscape that is characterized by an open pine forest and sawgrass prairie. As you hike along the well-maintained path, the scent of pine delicately fills the air and creates a sensory experience that goes well with the visual beauty of your surroundings. You will encounter diverse plant life, including slash pines, wildflowers, and saw palmettos. Pinelands Trail offers a peaceful and immersive exploration allowing nature lovers to make a new connection with the park.
4. Bobcat Boardwalk
- Length: 0.4 miles
- Elevation gain: Not noticeable
Bobcat Boardwalk is a hidden gem nestled within the vast wilderness of the park. It is another elevated wooden boardwalk that offers you a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich ecosystem of Everglades National Park. As you carry along the boardwalk, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a diverse array of vegetation, from towering cypress trees to vibrant mangroves. The path provides more glimpses of the park’s alligator population, and although I did not see any, I was told the elusive bobcat can often be spotted here, as well. This trail is another peaceful escape into the Everglades and is a great way to simply appreciate the beauty and biodiversity of this national park.
5. Anhinga Trail
- Length: 0.8 miles
- Elevation gain: Not noticeable
Although short, this trail was my favorite out of all the ones I did throughout my time in the park. I have walked this trail at least fifteen times while visiting, and I highly suggest that you make this your first experience in Everglades national park. The trail is a renowned pathway that immerses you in the heart of the park’s rich and diverse wetland environment. This trail is extremely accessible for people of all abilities or skill types, provides amazing wildlife viewing opportunities, and is where I took about half of my alligator photos. Besides aligators, you also have a good chance of seeing encountering the namesake Anhinga, turtles, otters, and various fish and bird species. This trail is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts seeking an immersive experience in the captivating landscapes of Everglades National Park.
6. Guy Bradley Trail
- Length: 1.5 miles
- Elevation gain: 13 feet
Guy Bradley Trail is a captivating pathway that combines accessibility with breathtaking views of Florida Bay’s serene waters. This trail provides a unique opportunity to experience the coastal side of Everglades National Park. The accessibility of the trail ensures that a wide range of visitors can enjoy the scenic journey. As you continue along the trail you are treated to glimpses of mangrove-lined shores and open waters where freshwater from the Everglades meets saltwater from the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. One of the remarkable features of this trail is the chance to encounter new wildlife that calls the bay home. You have ample chances to spot crocodiles gliding through the waters or manatees peacefully navigating the bay. The trail not only invites exploration but also presents a remarkable opportunity to witness the some of the different wonders within the park.
7. Bear Lake Trail
- Length: 3.5 miles
- Elevation gain: Not noticeable
This scenic trail winds through a diverse landscape of sawgrass prairies, hardwood hammocks, and cypress swamps that gives you an immersive experience through the park’s rich biodiversity. Bear Lake Trail is also a great place to encounter a variety of wildlife, including alligators, turtles, snakes, and wading birds. As you continue along the path, you are treated to the soothing sounds of nature and the opportunity to witness the delicate balance of life within the Everglades. Bear Lake Trail stands as a testament to the park’s commitment to preserving its natural wonders and providing visitors with a memorable and educational outdoor experience.
8. Snake Bight Trail
- Length: 3.6 miles
- Elevation gain: 3 feet
Snake Bight Trail is another trail that will captivate you as it takes you through more of the park’s coastal prairies and mangrove ecosystems. The hike goes through a well-maintained trail that leads you to an observation platform and provides stunning views of Snake Bight, a body of brackish water. As you progress along the trail, you may encounter various bird species and alligators. The tranquility of the mangrove-lined waterways and the vibrant biodiversity along Snake Bight Trail make it an immersive and rewarding experience for anyone seeking to explore the natural wonders of Everglades National Park.
9. Long Pine Key Trail
- Length: 11.8 miles
- Elevation gain: Not noticeable
Long Pine Key Trail invites you to explore the unique landscape characterized by towering slash pines, saw palmettos, and a diverse array of plant life that has adapted to the well-drained sandy soils. As you meander through the trail, you may encounter various bird species and potentially spot wildlife that have also adapted to this specific habitat. The peaceful ambiance and the chance to witness the unique ecological features of the pine rocklands make this trail a must-visit for those seeking a peaceful and immersive experience in the natural wonders of Everglades National Park.
10. Coastal Prairie Trail
- Length: 12.4 miles
- Elevation gain: 22 feet
This trail offers you the opportunity to explore the vast and open landscapes of the coastal prairies, which are characterized by expanses of sawgrass and an abundance of native grasses and wildflowers. As you keep hiking the trail, you will witness unobstructed views of the horizon, creating a sense of vastness that is both breathtaking and serene. The Coastal Prairie Trail offers a unique perspective on the diverse ecosystems within the park, making it an ideal destination for anyone seeking a connection with the park’s natural beauty. It is sure to provide you with an enchanting journey through one of the park’s distinctive ecosystems.
11. Shark Valley Trail
- Length: 14.7 miles
- Elevation gain: 26 feet
Shark Valley Trail is a renowned path that provides a remarkable immersion into the park’s distinctive wetland environment. If you do not want to do this hike on foot, it is a popular path that visitors complete by bike. The trail takes you through sawgrass prairies and offers unparalleled opportunities for wildlife observation. The highlight of the trail is the iconic Shark Valley Observation Tower, where panoramic views stretch across the vast “River of Grass.” The unique combination of expansive landscapes and diverse plant life makes Shark Valley Trail a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an up-close experience with the unparalleled beauty of Everglades National Park.