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Spanning the southern tip of the Florida peninsula and most of Florida Bay, Everglades National Park is the only subtropical preserve in North America. It contains both temperate and tropical plant communities, including sawgrass prairies, mangrove and cypress swamps, pinelands, and hardwood hammocks, as well as marine and estuarine environments. The park is known for its rich bird life, particularly large wading birds, such as the roseate spoonbill, wood stork, great blue heron and a variety of egrets. It is also the only place in the world where alligators and crocodiles exist side by side.
Everglades National Park is the largest remaining subtropical wilderness in the United States. Its abundant wildlife includes rare and endangered species, such as the American crocodile, Florida panther, and West Indian manatee. It has been designated an International Biosphere Reserve, a World Heritage Site, and a Wetland of International Importance, in recognition of its significance to all the peoples of the world.
Everglades National Park is a large park. Plan on staying at least one day and perhaps several to get a good feel for what the park offers.
Walking and canoe trails, boat tours and tram tours are excellent for viewing wildlife, including alligators and a multitude of tropical and temperate birds. Boat tours are available year-round at Flamingo and Gulf Coast. For information, call Flamingo Lodge at
(239) 695-3101, or Everglades National Park Boat Tours at (239)
695-2591. Tram tours are available at Shark Valley year round; call
(305) 221-8455 for information.
Ranger-led interpretive programs may help you enjoy your visit even more. Ranger-led walks and talks are offered year-round from the Royal Palm Visitor Center, and at Flamingo, Shark Valley, and Gulf Coast during the winter months.
Getting There:
Main Park Entrance and Flamingo: Visitors coming from the Miami area and points north may take the Florida Turnpike (Route 821) south until it ends, merging with U.S. 1 at Florida City. Turn right at the first traffic light onto Palm Drive (State Road 9336/SW 344th St.) and follow the signs to the park. Visitors driving north from the Florida Keys should turn left on Palm Drive in Florida City and follow the signs to the park.
Shark Valley Entrance: On Highway 41 (Tamiami Trail) 25 miles west of the Florida Turnpike exit for S.W. 8th Street. From the Naples area, take U.S. 41 (Tamiami Trail) east to Shark Valley.
Gulf Coast: 5 miles south of Highway 41 (Tamiami Trail) on State Road 29, in Everglades City. From Interstate 75 (Alligator Alley), take exit 80 (State Road 29) south and proceed 20 miles to Everglades City. Once in Everglades City, follow the signs to the park. Visitor Center is on the right.
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