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About

Everglades National Park is located in southern Florida and protects the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States. Established in 1947, the park encompasses approximately 2,357 square miles (6,105 sq km), making it the third-largest national park in the contiguous United States after Death Valley National Park and Yellowstone National Park.

The park preserves a vast mosaic of wetlands, sawgrass marshes, mangrove forests, cypress swamps, coastal estuaries, and marine habitats that together form one of the most unique ecosystems on Earth. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, International Biosphere Reserve, and Wetland of International Importance, the Everglades is often referred to as the “River of Grass.”

The park is best known for its immense wetlands and extraordinary wildlife. Visitors are drawn to opportunities to observe alligators, crocodiles, wading birds, manatees, dolphins, and countless other species in their natural habitats. Popular destinations include Anhinga Trail, one of the best wildlife-viewing areas in North America; Shark Valley, famous for its observation tower and wildlife-rich landscapes; and Flamingo, a gateway to Florida Bay and the park’s coastal wilderness.

Activities such as kayaking, canoeing, hiking, birdwatching, cycling, boating, camping, and photography provide visitors with countless ways to experience this remarkable ecosystem.

Geographically, Everglades National Park protects the southern portion of the Everglades ecosystem, a slow-moving river that flows from central Florida toward Florida Bay. The landscape is remarkably flat, with water often moving only a few feet per day through vast sawgrass prairies.

Habitats within the park include freshwater marshes, tropical hardwood hammocks, pine rocklands, mangrove forests, estuaries, and marine environments. The subtropical climate supports lush vegetation year-round, while seasonal wet and dry periods shape ecological processes throughout the park. The interconnected nature of these habitats creates one of the most complex and productive ecosystems in North America.

Wildlife within Everglades National Park is among the most diverse in the United States. The park is the only place in the world where the American Alligator and American Crocodile coexist naturally. Other mammals include Florida panthers, bobcats, river otters, raccoons, white-tailed deer, and West Indian manatees.

Birdlife is spectacular, with more than 360 species recorded, including roseate spoonbills, wood storks, great blue herons, egrets, anhingas, ospreys, and bald eagles. Marine environments support dolphins, sea turtles, sharks, and hundreds of fish species. The park also protects numerous endangered and threatened species, making it one of the most important wildlife conservation areas in North America.

Everglades National Park plays a critical role in preserving one of the world’s most unique wetland ecosystems. The park protects essential water resources, safeguards biodiversity, supports fisheries, and provides habitat for countless species. Large-scale restoration efforts continue to improve water flow and ecological health across the broader Everglades system.

Its conservation significance is often compared to Okavango Delta and Pantanal because of its vast wetlands, exceptional biodiversity, and global ecological importance. Through its endless marshes, mangrove forests, rare wildlife, and vital role in conservation, Everglades National Park stands as one of America’s most extraordinary natural treasures and one of the world’s most important wetland ecosystems.

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Everglades National Park
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Everglades National Park
Everglades National Park
Everglades National Park
Everglades National Park

Things to See

The majority of tourists that head to Everglades National Park usually has alligators on the mind. The park is home to both alligators and crocodiles which thrive in this freshwater ecosystem. These can be seen driving through the park, hiking on the trails, or taking one of the guided boat tours.

Visitors can take advantage of the southwestern remote parts of the park that are limited to pervasive light which provides excellent opportunities to view the Milky Way and night skies.

Popular

Popular

Everglades National Park, a vast and unique ecosystem within southern Florida, is a world-renowned haven for a wide array of wildlife, offering unparalleled opportunities to observe species that thrive in its subtropical wilderness. From the water’s surface to the expansive skies, the park’s diverse habitats support an incredible variety of life, each species playing a crucial role in the delicate balance of the Everglades’ environment.

American Alligator – Emblematic of the Everglades, the American Alligator is often seen sunning on banks or gliding through the water, a key species in the ecosystem.

Florida Panther – As one of the most elusive inhabitants, the endangered Florida Panther roams the park’s forests and marshes, a symbol of wild Florida.

West Indian Manatee – Gentle giants, West Indian Manatees, frequent the park’s warm waters, grazing on sea grasses in a slow-paced ballet of underwater grace.

American Crocodile – Unique for its tolerance of saltwater, the American Crocodile resides along the park’s coastal areas, showcasing the diversity of reptilian life in the Everglades.

Roseate Spoonbill – With its vibrant pink plumage and distinctive spoon-shaped bill, the Roseate Spoonbill is a striking presence in the park’s shallow waters.

Wood Stork – A conservation success story, the Wood Stork, with its bald head and white body, is often seen wading in search of fish.

Great Egret – Tall and graceful, the Great Egret stalks the marshes, a white beacon against the green backdrop, hunting for fish and amphibians.

Bald Eagle – The majestic Bald Eagle, America’s national bird, can be spotted soaring above the Everglades, a powerful symbol of freedom and strength.

Osprey – Known as the fish hawk, Ospreys are commonly observed diving for fish in the park’s waters, a testament to the richness of the Everglades’ aquatic life.

Snail Kite – Specialized in feeding on apple snails, the Snail Kite glides over freshwater marshes, its presence indicative of the health of the ecosystem.

Everglades National Park’s wildlife, from the iconic American Alligator to the specialized Snail Kite, represents the incredible biodiversity of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, inviting visitors to explore and appreciate the wonders of one of America’s most unique natural treasures.

Things To Do

Engaging Everglades National Park

Airboat Tours

Explore the vast wetlands of Everglades National Park on an exhilarating airboat tour. Glide over the shallow waters and sawgrass prairies, led by experienced guides who offer insights into the park’s unique ecosystem and wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for alligators, wading birds, and other fascinating creatures that call the Everglades home.

Hiking

Hiking Trails

Embark on a hike along the park’s scenic trails, ranging from short boardwalk loops to longer backcountry routes. Wander through lush forests, past freshwater ponds, and across open prairies, keeping an eye out for wildlife and enjoying the sights and sounds of nature.

Kayaking and Canoeing

Paddle through the tranquil waters of the Everglades, immersing yourself in the beauty and serenity of this unique wilderness. Whether you choose to kayak along mangrove-lined rivers or canoe through freshwater marshes, you’ll have the opportunity to spot wildlife such as manatees, dolphins, and a variety of bird species.

Everglades National Park Trails

Much of the Everglades are experienced from watercraft or scenic drives, however, there are over two dozen trails available for experiencing the stunning terrain of the marshy wetlands.

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Shark Valley Trail

This is a long but flat easy loop trail that is used for bike riding, running, and simple hiking.  It covers a distance of 15.8 miles (25.43 km).  During the spring there are chances to see wildflowers, but it is also good for birdwatching year-round as well as chances of seeing wildlife. There is minimal elevation change; it is mostly flat.

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Pa-Hay-Okee Overlook Trail

This is a boardwalk trail over 0.2 miles (0.32 km) that meanders through the grassy marshland that has trees scattered across the terrain. This is a short and easy taste of the Everglades.

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Anhinga Trail

This is a 1.5-mile (2.41 km) loop trail that meanders along the waterway with chances to see wildlife.  Bird watching and wildflowers are one of the potential highlights as well.  This gives good glimpses into the terrain known as the Everglades.

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Gumbo Limbo Trail

Gumbo Limbo Trail: This is an easy rated short 0.4-mile (0.64 km) loop trail that provides views of the Everglades ecosystem.  It is a quick outing with views of the lake as well.

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Mahogany Hammock Trail

This is a short 0.4-mile (0.64 km) easy rated loop trail that is flat and boarded. The elevated boardwalk trail goes directly over waterways of the national park while also giving chances to see wildlife. This is just one more quick trip into a better understanding of what is known as the Everglades.

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Shark Valley Tram Road

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: 15 miles round trip with minimal elevation gain

Description: Ideal for biking or taking a tram tour, this paved loop offers panoramic views of the Everglades’ “river of grass.” Along the way, visitors are likely to encounter alligators, wading birds, and possibly deer and turtles. The observation tower at the halfway point provides a spectacular aerial view of the surrounding wetlands.

Park Protection

Everglades National Park was created to protect the largest tropical wilderness in the United States.  It also protects the largest continuous mangrove system in the world.  The park also protects the habitats from a variety of species including bear, cougar, and alligators.

Unfortunately, people have released pythons and boa constrictors into the ecosystem which are threatenging the survival of native species.  The government establish snake hunts leveraging the public to help eradicate these invadors.

FAQ’s

What are the Everglades known for?

The Everglades are renowned for their vast and unique ecosystem, characterized by sawgrass marshes, mangrove forests, and diverse wildlife.

It is recognized as one of the largest tropical wilderness areas in the United States, home to numerous endangered species such as the Florida panther, American crocodile, and West Indian manatee.

The Everglades also serve as a crucial habitat for migratory birds, providing nesting grounds and feeding areas for hundreds of species.

Additionally, the park’s network of waterways, including rivers, lakes, and estuaries, offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing.

The Everglades are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve, attracting visitors from around the world to marvel at its natural beauty and ecological significance.

What is the main reason people visit Everglades National Park?

Everglades National Park is primarily visited for its vast wetlands, unique subtropical ecosystems, abundant wildlife, and exceptional opportunities for boating, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.

Located in southern Florida, the park protects the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an International Biosphere Reserve, and a Wetland of International Importance.

Visitors come to see alligators, crocodiles, manatees, birds, mangrove forests, sawgrass marshes, and one of the most distinctive ecosystems on Earth.

What animals can visitors hope to see in Everglades National Park?

Everglades National Park supports approximately 40 mammal species and more than 50 reptile species. The park is internationally renowned for its wildlife diversity and is the only place in the world where American alligators and American crocodiles naturally coexist.

Some of the most notable mammals and reptiles found in Everglades National Park include:

  1. Florida Panther
  2. Bobcat
  3. Coyote
  4. River Otter
  5. Raccoon
  6. Marsh Rabbit
  7. Eastern Cottontail
  8. White-tailed Deer
  9. Black Bear
  10. Gray Fox
  11. Red Fox
  12. Mink
  13. Striped Skunk
  14. Opossum
  15. Cotton Mouse
  16. Rice Rat
  17. Marsh Rice Rat
  18. Cotton Rat
  19. Florida Mouse
  20. Big Brown Bat
  21. Evening Bat
  22. Hoary Bat
  23. Red Bat
  24. Seminole Bat
  25. Silver-haired Bat
  26. Brazilian Free-tailed Bat
  27. Northern Yellow Bat
  28. Tricolored Bat
  29. West Indian Manatee
  30. Bottlenose Dolphin
  31. American Alligator
  32. American Crocodile
  33. Burmese Python
  34. Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake
  35. Cottonmouth
  36. Coral Snake
  37. Eastern Indigo Snake
  38. Southern Black Racer
  39. Mangrove Salt Marsh Snake
  40. Corn Snake
  41. Green Anole
  42. Brown Anole
  43. Knight Anole
  44. Six-lined Racerunner
  45. Loggerhead Sea Turtle
  46. Green Sea Turtle
  47. Hawksbill Sea Turtle
  48. Leatherback Sea Turtle
  49. Gopher Tortoise
  50. Numerous Freshwater and Marine Fish Species

What birds can visitors hope to see in Everglades National Park?

Everglades National Park is one of the premier birdwatching destinations in North America, with more than 360 bird species recorded. The park’s wetlands, mangroves, coastal habitats, and freshwater marshes support extraordinary bird diversity.

Some of the most popular birds seen in Everglades National Park include:

  1. Roseate Spoonbill
  2. Wood Stork
  3. Great Blue Heron
  4. Great Egret
  5. Snowy Egret
  6. Little Blue Heron
  7. Tricolored Heron
  8. Green Heron
  9. Black-crowned Night Heron
  10. Yellow-crowned Night Heron
  11. White Ibis
  12. Glossy Ibis
  13. Limpkin
  14. Purple Gallinule
  15. Common Gallinule
  16. American Bittern
  17. Least Bittern
  18. Anhinga
  19. Double-crested Cormorant
  20. Brown Pelican
  21. Magnificent Frigatebird
  22. Osprey
  23. Bald Eagle
  24. Red-shouldered Hawk
  25. Peregrine Falcon
  26. American Kestrel
  27. Snail Kite
  28. Swallow-tailed Kite
  29. Black Skimmer
  30. Royal Tern
  31. Sandwich Tern
  32. Least Tern
  33. Caspian Tern
  34. Laughing Gull
  35. Ring-billed Gull
  36. White-crowned Pigeon
  37. Mangrove Cuckoo
  38. Belted Kingfisher
  39. Gray Kingbird
  40. Loggerhead Shrike
  41. Palm Warbler
  42. Prairie Warbler
  43. Yellow Warbler
  44. Black-whiskered Vireo
  45. Northern Cardinal
  46. Painted Bunting
  47. Indigo Bunting
  48. Red-winged Blackbird
  49. Boat-tailed Grackle
  50. Common Yellowthroat

Is Everglades National Park worth visiting?

Yes, Everglades National Park is absolutely worth visiting and is considered one of the most important protected ecosystems in the world.

The park offers exceptional wildlife viewing, unique wetland habitats, scenic paddling routes, birdwatching opportunities, and a chance to experience a landscape unlike any other in North America. Visitors interested in nature, photography, conservation, and outdoor recreation often rank the Everglades among the most memorable national park experiences in the United States.

What is the best time to visit Everglades National Park?

The best time to visit Everglades National Park is:

  • November through April

During these months:

  • Temperatures are comfortable.
  • Humidity is lower.
  • Mosquito activity is reduced.
  • Wildlife viewing is often at its best.
  • Dry-season conditions concentrate animals around water sources.

Summer is hotter, wetter, and characterized by frequent thunderstorms and mosquitoes.

How many days do you need to visit Everglades National Park?

Most visitors spend the day in the national park whereas others plan for 2 or more days.

  • 1 day: Major boardwalks and wildlife viewing areas.
  • 2 days: Multiple visitor areas and short paddling excursions.
  • 3–4 days: Kayaking, boating, hiking, and extensive wildlife viewing.
  • 5+ days: Backcountry camping and wilderness exploration.

The park’s large size rewards longer visits.

How do you get to Everglades National Park?

Everglades National Park is located in southern Florida.

Most visitors:

  1. Fly into Miami or Fort Lauderdale.
  2. Drive to one of the park’s entrances.
  3. Access the park through areas such as Homestead, Shark Valley, or Gulf Coast.

The main entrance near Homestead is approximately one hour from Miami.

Who is involved in protecting and supporting Everglades National Park?

Several organizations help protect Everglades National Park:

  • National Park Service – manages Everglades National Park.
  • Everglades Foundation – supports restoration, research, and conservation efforts.
  • National Park Foundation – supports projects throughout the National Park System.
  • Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission – assists with wildlife management and conservation.
  • Scientists, volunteers, Indigenous communities, and conservation organizations working to restore and protect the Everglades ecosystem.

What are the Everglades?

The Everglades is a vast subtropical wetland ecosystem often referred to as the “River of Grass.” Water slowly flows south from central Florida through sawgrass marshes, wetlands, mangrove forests, and estuaries, creating one of the most unique ecosystems in the world.

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