Florida Everglades Self-Guided Driving Tour

Welcome to the Everglades Tour

Venture into a strange, diverse ecosystem unlike anywhere else on planet Earth! This self-guided driving tour of the Everglades takes you to the most remarkable sites in this one-of-a-kind national park and delves into the complicated, fraught history of the land along the way. Stroll along boardwalks shaded by lush jungle greenery, see alligators and wading birds in their natural habitat, and find out for yourself what makes this stretch of southern Florida so special!

About the Tour

Your Everglades tour begins in Florida City, just northeast of the national park. From there, you’ll drive toward the park itself, passing a wildlife rescue and an alligator farm along the way!

On your way to the park entrance, you’ll hear about how the Everglades formed, how it became home to the powerful Calusa tribe, and how that tribe ultimately met their end. Then, you’ll get a glimpse into the numerous distinct ecosystems which make up the Everglades.

The first trail you’ll pass upon entering the park is actually two trails! The Gumbo Limbo and Anhinga Trails are among the park’s most popular thanks to their shade, scenery, and plentiful wildlife.

After that, you’ll pass the Pinelands Trail, which leads through beautiful hardwood forests. You’ll also learn about 20th-century plans to drain the Everglades and the hard work of conservationists to stop that from happening.

Pa-Hay-Okee Lookout Tower is next, offering panoramic views of the so-called “river of grass” all around. It’s an unbeatable spot for a photo op!

On your way to the Mahogany Hammock Trail, featuring the largest living mahogany tree in the United States, you’ll hear some chilling tales about Everglades cryptids, including the menacing Alligator King and the elusive Skunk Ape—also called Bigfoot’s cousin!

Nine Mile Pond trail waits ahead for those looking to escape the water. This canoe trail is perfect for anyone bringing a boat on their journey. Around here, you’ll also find out about the continuing threats to the delicate environment of the Everglades, from air pollution to invasive species like the Burmese python.

West Lake Trail and Snake Bight Trail wait just ahead, both offering incredible views of the water. See if you can spot the telltale ripples of a crocodile or alligator somewhere on the lake!

As you drive toward Christian Point Trail on the Everglades tour, a slightly more challenging trek, you’ll discover how natural disasters like wildfires and hurricanes might not be so disastrous for the Everglades after all. Then you’ll pass by the Flamingo Visitor Center, which offers boat and bike rentals for adventurous travelers.

Finally, you’ll reach the Eco Pond. Usually full of wading birds, softshell turtles, and alligators, this is a wildlife watcher’s dream! Your tour concludes just beyond the pond.

Starting Point Address: 254 W Palm Dr, Florida City, FL 33034