Manatees, crocodiles, and panthers, oh my. Everglades National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a protected International Biosphere Reserve. If you’re planning to visit the area on your next trip to Florida, here are five cool things to see when you’re exploring Everglades National Park.
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5. Alligators (From a Safe Distance)
There are over 200,000 alligators in the Everglades, and they play an important role in the ecosystem of the park. The chances of seeing an alligator in Everglades National Park are generally pretty good, but your chances get even higher when you go during the dry season—from December to April.
4. (Part of) the Biscayne-Everglades Greenway
The Biscayne-Everglades Greenway is a work in progress, but it will one day connect Biscayne National Park to the Everglades. The Greenway will eventually be a whopping 42 miles long. There are about 3 miles paved so far, and you can walk to the ends to see what’s been accomplished thus far.
3. Airboats
Looking to get a different view of Everglades National Park? Take an Airboat tour to explore the waters and learn more about the plant and animal life within the park. Airboat rides are the most popular tourist attraction in Everglades National Park, so make sure you book in advance.
2. Birds
Everglades National Park is home to 300 bird species, making it a great location for bird watching. For the best birding opportunities, come during the dry season, since this is the season when bird populations tend to travel toward the permanent bodies of water located within the Everglades.
1. Pahayokee Overlook
Take the 0.16-mile hike to the boardwalk overlook to view the river of grass in Everglades National Park. Its name, pronounced Pa-hay-okee, is the name that indigenous people use for the Everglades, and this area is known for its grassy waters. Park by the trailhead and head out on the short loop to get to the overlook.
