3 Best Hikes in Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park Overview

Below you will find the 3 best hikes in Everglades National Park! The world famous Everglades is the largest wilderness area east of the Mississippi River. There are at least 36 threatened or endangered species in the park and most visitors come to catch a glimpse of the American alligator or the elusive Florida panther. The best way to explore the park is by boat but there are quite a few trails in the park worth seeing. Sadly man-made developments are depleting and altering the ecosystem. Several restoration acts have been signed to improve the health of the area but we can all do our part to help save the Everglades!

StateFlorida
Nearest Metro AreaMiami, FL
Area Size1,508,976 acres
EstablishedDecember 6, 1947
Hiking Trails75 miles

Trailhead Traveler’s Recommended Best Hikes in Everglades National Park

Anhinga Trail
Everglades National Park
Anhinga Trail Boardwalk, Photo by GPA Photo Archive

This is a short and easy trail that immerses hikers into the park’s beautiful and unique biodiversity. Along the way you’ll see alligators, turtles, birds and other forms of wildlife in their natural habitat. The trailhead is located next to the Royal Palm Visitor Center.

  • 0.8 mile loop
  • No elevation gain
  • Easy
Pa-hay-okee Overlook Trail
Everglades National Park: Pa-hay-okee Trail
Pa-hay-okee Trail, Photo by Phil’s 1stPix

This is a short boardwalk trail to a lookout tower and offers great views of wildlife and the expansive surrounding areas. The trailhead is located off of Main Park Road about 12 miles from the park entrance.

  • 0.25 mile loop
  • No elevation gain
  • Easy
West Lake Trail
best hikes in everglades national park
West Lake Everglades, Photo by Fredlyfish4

This is a shaded boardwalk trail that passes through mangroves to the edge of West Lake. The trailhead can also be accessed off of Main Park Road about 31 miles from the park entrance.

  • 0.5 mile loop
  • No elevation gain
  • Easy

Featured Image: Everglades National Park, Photo by Niagara66

Don’t forget to stock up on the essentials before you plan your next hiking or camping trip! We have recommendations on:
TENTS
HIKING BOOTS
AND MORE!