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About

Dry Tortugas National Park is located in the westernmost part of the Florida Keys.  It sits about 70 miles (110 km) west of Key West, Florida, of the United States.  The park covers an area of 101 square miles (261.84 sq km).

Although the park boundaries are just over 100 square miles, the total land area only accounts for 0.2 square miles (0.4 sq km).  The majority of the protected area is the coral reef and surrounding marine waters. 

Dry Tortugas is a sister and collaborative national park with Everglades National Park and together create the UNESCO Everglades & Dry Tortugas Biosphere Reserve. 

The park is comprised of the last seven islands of the Florida Keys and is renowned for the remoteness and Caribbean intrigue.  Travelers come for the tropical birds, the brilliant coral reefs, and the accompanying sea life.

The remains of Fort Jefferson add to the historical tails of pirates and shipwrecks.  Travelers can only reach the park by plane or boat.  The pristine marine ecosystem intertwined with the historical facets of the fortress creates one of the most unique national parks in the United States.

Because of the remoteness of the park, the coral reefs and related Florida Key islands are the most undisturbed offering the most natural marine habitat throughout the Keys.  Subsequently, there are around 300 species of birds 

However, despite the number of species that pass through the park area, only eight species are known to nest in the park and call it home.  Nesting birds include bridled tern, brown noddy, brown pelican, magnificent frigate bird, masked booby, mourning dove, roseate tern, and the sooty tern.

Migratory species are most commonly experienced during the spring months.  The peak occurs usually in April with May being right behind it.  Dozens and dozens of species might be witnessed in a single day.  Loggerhead turtles also use the islands to nest.

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Dry Tortugas National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park

Things to See

One of the highlights of the national park comes from the serenity of the blue waters, ocean breezes, and the sounds of the almost 300 species of birds that blanket the area.  The primary features of the park are the marine ecosystem and the remains of the fortress.

Birdwatching is one of the draws of the park.  Bird lovers who visit the park in April or May could be blessed with sightings of over 100 different species in a single day of birdwatching.

Fort Jefferson

Fort Jefferson was originally constructed by the US as a line of defense to protect the shipping lanes of the Gulf of Mexico.  The site was never completed and was abandoned twice and finally in 1907.

The fort was designed to hold 480 large guns and 2,000 soldiers.  The guns were equipped to launch a 432-pound (195 kg) projectile 3-miles (4.8 km) toward a target. 

Fort Jefferson was a three-story hexagon structure that stands 50 feet (15 m) tall.  There were 2,000 arches that went around the half-mile structure 

A moat, for further defense and protection, surrounds Fort Jefferson.  The good news is the fort was never tested nor needed. 

Marine Life

Enjoying the pristine and undisturbed coral reefs and surrounding marine waters is the natural highlight of the park.  Fishing, kayaking, and camping allow visitors to engage life above the waters while snorkeling and scuba diving are the preferred way to experience the abundant wildlife below the waters.

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The unique location of Dry Tortugas, along with its protected status, provides critical nesting, foraging, and breeding grounds for a wide array of species, from underwater inhabitants to migratory birds. Each species that calls this park home adds to the rich biodiversity that makes Dry Tortugas a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike.

Magnificent Frigatebird – Often seen soaring high above the islands, these large seabirds are known for their impressive wingspan and the male’s distinctive red throat pouch.

Brown Pelican – A common sight, Brown Pelicans glide gracefully over the water, diving headfirst to catch fish, showcasing their prowess as skilled fishermen.

Sooty Tern – Dry Tortugas is home to the largest Sooty Tern nesting colony in the United States, with Bird Key being a critical habitat for these seabirds.

Brown Noddy – These seabirds, smaller than the Sooty Tern, share the same nesting islands, creating bustling colonies that come alive during breeding season.

Loggerhead Sea Turtle – Named for their large heads, Loggerhead Sea Turtles frequent the park’s beaches to nest, an essential part of their life cycle.

Green Sea Turtle – Graceful swimmers, Green Sea Turtles are often spotted in the shallow waters around the park, feeding on the seagrass beds.

Queen Conch – These large marine mollusks, with their striking spiral shells, are a common find in the seagrass beds, contributing to the underwater landscape.

Goliath Grouper – One of the largest fish in the coral reef ecosystem, the Goliath Grouper is an awe-inspiring sight for snorkelers and divers.

Masked Booby – Occasionally seen on the park’s remote islands, Masked Boobies are known for their direct flight and dramatic plunge dives for fish.

Coral Species – Including Elkhorn and Brain Corals, these foundational species create the complex reef structures that host a myriad of marine life in the park.

Dry Tortugas National Park’s wildlife, from the aerial acrobatics of the Magnificent Frigatebird to the underwater majesty of the coral reefs, offers an unparalleled window into the diverse ecosystems that flourish in this secluded corner of the world.

Historical Defense

Historical Defense

Fort Jefferson, situated within Dry Tortugas National Park, stands as a remarkable testament to American history and military architecture.

Constructed in the 19th century, this imposing coastal fortress served as a strategic defense post and later as a prison during the Civil War.

Spanning over 16 million bricks, it is one of the largest masonry structures in the Western Hemisphere. The fort’s hexagonal design encompasses a massive interior courtyard and three tiers of casemates, providing insight into its formidable defensive capabilities.

Visitors can explore its ramparts, gunrooms, and moat, immersing themselves in its rich history through guided tours and interpretive exhibits.

Surrounded by crystal-clear waters and coral reefs, Fort Jefferson offers a captivating blend of historical intrigue and natural beauty, making it a must-see destination within the captivating landscape of Dry Tortugas National Park.

Things To Do

The park is small is easy to explore.  There are paths you can take above ground and under the water or along the beach.  It is a great way to escape the world and just take in relaxing nature.

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Shipwreck Diving

There are several ships that have run ashore or wrecked because of the coral reefs.  Diving to explore these is one of the most common activities of the park.

Snorkeling

Snorkeling is one of the easiest ways to discover and explore the underwater beauty that surrounds the island area.

Fort Jefferson Tour

This is an easy walk and exploration through Fort Jefferson which is a highlight of the national park.

Distance and Elevation Gain: Varies, but generally around 0.5 to 1 mile within the fort with minimal elevation gain

Description: This self-guided or ranger-led tour around Fort Jefferson provides insights into one of the largest coastal forts ever built. Visitors can explore the fort’s walls, parade grounds, and living quarters while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding waters and learning about the fort’s strategic military history and its role as a prison during the Civil War.

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Loggerhead Key Lighthouse Exploration

(Access by permitted guided tours only)

Rating: Moderate (due to the need for special transportation)

Distance and Elevation Gain: Varies, but generally includes exploring the area around the lighthouse and snorkeling spots

Description: A visit to Loggerhead Key offers an adventurous day trip to see the historic lighthouse and enjoy some of the best snorkeling in the park. Visitors can explore the sandy beaches, snorkel in the vibrant coral reefs, and learn about the key’s ecological importance and maritime history.

Snorkeling

Snorkeling is one of the outdoor activities that visitors to Dry Tortugas can leverage to engage the national park and experience nature and the outdoors.

Rating: Variable, depending on swimming ability and conditions

Tours:  Guided snorkeling tours offer a unique way to explore the underwater “trails” of coral and marine life.

Description: Although not a trail in the traditional sense, snorkeling around Fort Jefferson provides an underwater exploration of the coral reef and shipwrecks. Visitors can see a diverse array of marine life, historic artifacts, and the vibrant ecosystem that thrives in the protected waters of Dry Tortugas National Park.

Fort Jefferson Tour

This is an easy walk and exploration through Fort Jefferson which is a highlight of the national park.

Distance and Elevation Gain: Varies, but generally around 0.5 to 1 mile within the fort with minimal elevation gain

Description: This self-guided or ranger-led tour around Fort Jefferson provides insights into one of the largest coastal forts ever built. Visitors can explore the fort’s walls, parade grounds, and living quarters while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding waters and learning about the fort’s strategic military history and its role as a prison during the Civil War.

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Loggerhead Key Lighthouse Exploration

(Access by permitted guided tours only)

Rating: Moderate (due to the need for special transportation)

Distance and Elevation Gain: Varies, but generally includes exploring the area around the lighthouse and snorkeling spots

Description: A visit to Loggerhead Key offers an adventurous day trip to see the historic lighthouse and enjoy some of the best snorkeling in the park. Visitors can explore the sandy beaches, snorkel in the vibrant coral reefs, and learn about the key’s ecological importance and maritime history.

Snorkeling

Snorkeling is one of the outdoor activities that visitors to Dry Tortugas can leverage to engage the national park and experience nature and the outdoors.

Rating: Variable, depending on swimming ability and conditions

Tours:  Guided snorkeling tours offer a unique way to explore the underwater “trails” of coral and marine life.

Description: Although not a trail in the traditional sense, snorkeling around Fort Jefferson provides an underwater exploration of the coral reef and shipwrecks. Visitors can see a diverse array of marine life, historic artifacts, and the vibrant ecosystem that thrives in the protected waters of Dry Tortugas National Park.

Dry Tortugas National Park Trails

The landmass of the Dry Tortugas is less than a square mile, which means hiking trails really are not a thing in the national park.  Visitors will walk about the islands, but this is really just random relaxation versus hiking.

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Fort Jefferson Loop Trail

This is a half-mile (0.8 km) loop that travels around the moat and wall of the Fort Jefferson remnants.  It is an opportunity to see the historical artifact and old architecture as well as possibly seeing fish along with the coral of the island.

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Bush Key Trail

This is a 1-mile (1.6 km) trail that follows along the south shore of Bush Key.  It is an easy trail that may actually land your feet in the water.

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Garden Key Moat Wall Walk

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: Approximately 0.8 miles round trip with minimal elevation gain

Description: Walking atop the moat wall surrounding Fort Jefferson offers a leisurely stroll with stunning views of the fort, the clear blue waters, and the chance to spot marine life and birds. This easy walk is accessible to all visitors and provides numerous photo opportunities of the historic structure against the backdrop of the Gulf of Mexico.

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Bush Key Bird Watching Walk

(Seasonally accessible)

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: Up to 2 miles round trip with minimal elevation gain

Description: During certain times of the year when Bush Key is open to visitors, this walk allows bird enthusiasts to observe nesting sooty terns and other seabirds up close. The key is closed during nesting season to protect the birds but is accessible at other times for a unique bird-watching experience.

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Garden Key Moat Wall Walk

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: Approximately 0.8 miles round trip with minimal elevation gain

Description: Walking atop the moat wall surrounding Fort Jefferson offers a leisurely stroll with stunning views of the fort, the clear blue waters, and the chance to spot marine life and birds. This easy walk is accessible to all visitors and provides numerous photo opportunities of the historic structure against the backdrop of the Gulf of Mexico.

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Bush Key Bird Watching Walk

(Seasonally accessible)

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: Up to 2 miles round trip with minimal elevation gain

Description: During certain times of the year when Bush Key is open to visitors, this walk allows bird enthusiasts to observe nesting sooty terns and other seabirds up close. The key is closed during nesting season to protect the birds but is accessible at other times for a unique bird-watching experience.

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