Everglades National Park Hikes

Swamp. Sawgrass. Alligators, bears and bobcats, oh my! Welcome to Everglades National Park hikes and its many trails for hiking, biking, and paddling.

The Florida Everglades is huge. It spans over 1.5 million acres, giving you plenty to explore.

Not sure where to start on hiking on your Everglades adventure? No worries. This guide will help you find the best trails for you to explore.

You can choose the popular Anhinga Trail or maybe take the path less traveled on the Christian Point Trail. Planning ahead will let you know what to expect AND what to bring with you.

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Whether you’re a long time hiker or a family on an adventure, there’s a trail for you. Let’s dig in and explore the Florida Everglades by foot. My favorite way to explore.

Why Hike in Everglades National Park?

Before we really get started, please keep in mind that the Everglades National Park is not your typical hiking destination. It’s a unique ecosystem with diverse wildlife.

You could see alligators, manatees, Florida panther, bears and a variety of bird including Osprey and the Bald Eagle. Hiking is a fantastic way to explore up close.

Your hike could take you through marshes, mangroves, and pine trees and lime rock. Each trail is unique in its own way, and no two trails are the same.

Ready? Lace up your hiking boots and let’s get started.

Preparing for Your Hike: Tips and Essentials

First, before we begin, I am going to remind you once more that it’s important to be prepared. This National Park is over 1.5 million acres. Do not underestimate it and make sure you know where you are at all times.

If you have not hiked in these type of conditions, especially a hot, humid summer, please enjoy a hike with a ranger first.

Next, always bring plenty of water. The Florida sun is strong and staying hydrated is extremely important so you do not become disoriented, experience cramps, and more.

Next, sunscreen and insect repellent. Let me clarify it even further, BUG SPRAY!

In the summer, the mosquitos are out in full force and ready to carry you off. Shoot, all times of the year, you will battle mosquitos.

I just returned from my Everglades trip and my legs are chewed up from bites.

Next, what to wear. Wear comfortable shoes for walking and clothes that protect. I prefer hiking boots and have found that I can slip on my Hokas and head out without having to break them in. These are my hiking boots: Hoka Hiking Boots

A hat and sunglasses are also a good idea. This last trip, I forgot my sunglasses and had a terrible time seeing in the extremely bright and open areas of the Everglades National Park.

Luckily, I did have a visor type hat in my hiking pack. Here’s a quick checklist for your convenience:

• Water
• Sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Comfortable shoes
• Sun-protective clothing
• Hat and sunglasses

Remember, safety first! Now, you’re ready to hit the top Everglades National Park hikes.

Top Trails to Explore

Anhinga Trail: A Birdwatcher’s Paradise

The Anhinga Trail is a must-visit for bird lovers. It’s one of the most popular everglades trails, and for good reason.

You’ll get to see a variety of bird species up close. The trail is named after the Anhinga bird, often spotted drying its wings in the sun.

Gumbo Limbo Trail: A Shady Retreat

Next is the Gumbo Limbo Trail. This trail offers a shaded walk through a hammock of gumbo limbo trees. These are really cool to see!

It’s a great choice for a hot day. The dense canopy provides a cool retreat from the Florida sun.

Shark Valley Tram Road: Panoramic Views

I am bummed I didn’t get out on the tram this time around, but I will be going back to do so. The Shark Valley Tram Road is a 15-mile loop that offers stunning views.

You can hike it or bike it, depending on your preference. There’s a tower at the halfway point. Climb it for a panoramic view of the Everglades.

Pa-hay-okee Overlook Trail: A Quick Glimpse

If you’re short on time, the Pa-hay-okee Overlook Trail is perfect. It’s a short walk to an observation platform.

You will see beautiful views of the Everglades from the overlook. It’s a quick way to appreciate the park’s vast beauty.

Long Pine Key Trail: Rare Habitats

The Long Pine Key Trail is a gem. It features pine rockland habitat, which is rare and unique to South Florida.

This trail offers a different perspective of the Everglades. It’s a great choice for those looking to explore beyond the marshes.

There are many more trails, but these are the top picks you will want to hit. They are easy to navigate as far as knowing where you are on the trail. Great for beginner hikers and families.

Hiking with a Purpose: Wildlife and Conservation

Hiking in the Everglades is more than just a walk. It’s a chance for you to see and explore a unique ecosystem and wildlife.

You could see alligators, manatees, and a many birds and shorebirds. The park is home to several endangered species, like the American crocodile and the West Indian manatee.

As a reminder, it’s crucial to stay on designated trails to protect the wildlife and their habitats.

When to Visit: Seasons and Wildlife Activity

The best time to hike in the Everglades is during the dry season, from November to March. This is when the weather is probably best for hiking and mosquitoes are less active.

Keep in mind, though, the park landscape changes dramatically with the seasons. Things will change based on what time of year it is when you visit.

One time you can enjoy everything nice and green in the wet season to a more subdued palette in the dry season. The Everglades is a living, breathing ecosystem.

Coastal Prairie Trail: Homestead History

The Coastal Prairie Trail is a hidden gem. It leads to an old homestead, a relic of the park’s past.

This trail offers a glimpse into the history of the Everglades. It’s a journey back in time. This trail is for a more experienced hiker.

Bear Lake Trail: Mangrove Forests

The Bear Lake Trail is a serene escape. It takes hikers through mangrove forests to a peaceful lake.

The trails and lake are quite a way down the road that you drive to get to it. This trail is a chance to experience the quiet beauty of the Everglades. Another trail not for beginners.

Christian Point Trail: Solitude and Wilderness

The Christian Point Trail is less traveled. It offers solitude and a chance to see the wilder side of the Everglades.

It’s a beautiful trail, but it is not maintained. Don’t expect an easy hike.

Safety in the Wilderness: Staying Safe on Everglades Trails

Again, I want to really emphasize being safe while hiking, especially in the Everglades. The park’s ecosystem is delicate. It’s important to stay on designated trails, especially if you are not used to rough trails and back country conditions.

Next, the wildlife. This includes the American alligator and the elusive Florida panther. Be aware of your surroundings at all times while enjoying the views.

Here are some safety tips for your hike:

• Bring plenty of water and sunscreen
• Use insect repellent
• Wear appropriate clothing
• Always carry a map and compass or GPS

The Everglades Awaits

Ready to go? The Everglades National Park is definitely a hiker’s paradise.

It’s a place of wild beauty, diverse wildlife, and unique ecosystems. Lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails. The Everglades National Park is waiting for your visit.

These links will help you plan your adventure while enjoying the Everglades National Park Hikes and Trails: