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Everglades National Park adventures

Everglades National Park Adventures

Everglades National Park protects the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States, offering unique wetland habitats and unparalleled opportunities for wildlife viewing and water-based recreation.

1,508,976
Acres Protected
56
Miles of Trails
1,030,000
Annual Visitors
1947
Year Established

About Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park
 

Everglades National Park spans over 1.5 million acres in southern Florida, preserving a vast and diverse wetland ecosystem that includes sawgrass marshes, mangrove forests, hardwood hammocks, and coastal estuaries. It is home to an extraordinary variety of wildlife, such as the endangered Florida panther, American crocodile, West Indian manatee, and numerous bird species including roseate spoonbills and great egrets. The park’s landscape is defined by the slow-moving 'River of Grass,' a shallow sheet of water that flows from Lake Okeechobee to Florida Bay. Established in 1947 and designated a World Heritage Site, Everglades is both a critical habitat and a popular destination for outdoor recreation. Visitors can explore the park via extensive canoe and kayak routes, boardwalks, and hiking trails, or embark on boat tours and ranger-led programs. Notable landmarks include Shark Valley with its observation tower and Anhinga Trail, where wildlife watching is exceptional. The park also provides opportunities for fishing, birdwatching, and camping, offering a rare glimpse into a fragile ecosystem vital for water purification and storm protection. Everglades National Park is a premier destination for those interested in unique landscapes, nature photography, and experiencing a subtropical wilderness close to urban centers like Miami.

Highlights

Highlight

Anhinga Trail – a world-famous boardwalk known for close-up wildlife viewing

Highlight

Shark Valley Observation Tower – panoramic views over the Everglades

Highlight

Florida Bay – prime area for fishing and paddle sports

Highlight

Mahogany Hammock – one of the few mature hardwood hammocks in the park

Notable Natural Features

Anhinga Trail

A popular trail with an elevated boardwalk leading through sawgrass marshes, offering excellent views of wading birds, turtles, and alligators.

Shark Valley

An accessible area featuring a 15-mile loop trail with an observation tower that provides sweeping views of the Everglades.

Coastal Mangrove Forests

Dense mangrove ecosystems that provide critical nursery habitats for marine life and serve as a buffer against storm surge.