A little further south of Fort Myers and Naples awaits a big adventure for those who dare. The Florida Everglades a.k.a. the “River of Grass” is a nature lovers paradise complete with a tram tour for your convenience. Located in the northernmost part of Everglades National Park, Shark Valley is perfect for adventure seekers and outdoor recreation enthusiasts. You can bike or walk through the 15 mile paved path or take the tram from the Shark Valley Tram Tours, just west of Miami.
Outdoor adventure opportunities in the park include camping, hiking, biking, airboat rides, birding, tram tours, fishing, canoeing, boat tours, and even ranger guided programs.
There are 1.5 million acres of wilderness within the four sections of the Everglades National Park. Between Naples and Miami there are plenty of stops on the way to Shark Valley , which lies almost an hour outside of the city. Shark Valley Tram Tours is a 2-3 hour expedition with ranger led narration and opportunity to view a variety of wildlife, including many alligators, safely from the comfort of the outdoor tram. It’s the perfect way for families with young children to view the wildlife and enjoy the park.
Speaking of wildlife, you can expect to see great egrets, white egrets, common egrets, great blue herons, anhingas, cormorants, wood storks, white ibis, bald eagles, and osprey, to name a few, which can be found throughout the park. The everglades is a birders paradise.
Your adventure will take you to a tower, specially designed with ramps which offers spectacular views of the famed River of Grass.
Alligators of all shapes and sizes are found throughout the park including hatchlings, yearlings and large males. The ranger will point out nesting sites and alligator slides along the way during the tram tour.
There are walking trails and a board walk to explore, and plenty of photograph opportunities all around the park. The variety of flora and fauna throughout the park abound and provide wonderful pictures for the outdoor photographer.
Pack a lunch and enjoy the view, there is no on site restaurant, only the wildlife. The natural ambiance won’t disappoint during your picnic. There are a couple of vending machines available which provide snacks and drinks.
The road between Naples and Shark Valley contains ample opportunity to explore and discover more about the area. There are several visitor and information centers along the way with wildlife viewing opportunities of their own. All in all – this is one adventure worth repeating.
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