Visit Everglades City and the Ten Thousand Islands of Southwest Florida, the Everglades
Paddling the Everglades (*)2023-12-07T05:16:44-05:00
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Paddling Everglades City

& the 10 Thousand Islands

Everglades City is your gateway to the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge, the 100-mile Wilderness Waterway, and a segment of Everglades National Park. It’s the perfect starting point for kayaking adventures, whether you prefer short trips or week-long expeditions with many miles to explore.

Short Paddling Trails

Everglades City offers a variety of short paddling trips that let you quickly immerse yourself in its natural beauty. These shorter adventures provide a glimpse of the area’s unique environment and wildlife, making them perfect for a quick getaway into the heart of Old Florida.

You can hop onto the Halfway Creek and Loop Trails from two fantastic spots: the Gulf Coast Visitor Center in Everglades City or the Big Cypress Welcome Center on Sea Grape Drive just off US 41. The Creek stretches out for 7.3 miles, connecting the Big Cypress Welcome Center to the Gulf Coast Visitor Center. If you’re up for a bit more adventure, the upper loop adds another 3.7 miles. Starting from the Gulf Coast Visitor Center, the Halfway Creek-Left Hand Turner-Turner River loop covers a total of 11 miles. These trails usually take about 4-8 hours to enjoy fully. Happy trails!

Discover the Lefthand Turner River Paddling Trail, a scenic 3.65-mile route through Big Cypress Preserve and Everglades National Park. With a paddling time of 3 to 4 hours, it’s suitable for both beginners and experienced paddlers. This easy-to-moderate trail winds through an intertidal mangrove forest. Start your adventure at Chokoloskee Island. Watch for commercial airboats and powerboats along the way, and consider using the tides to enhance your experience. Enjoy your paddle!

Experience the Sandfly Island Loop Paddling Trail, covering approximately 3.73 miles, with a typical duration of 3 to 5 hours. Keep in mind that the timeframe can vary based on whether you decide to explore Sandfly Island on foot or encounter strong winds and tides. If you take a break at Sandfly Island, it’s advisable to use the beach near the dock due to the dock’s slippery conditions. Ensure your boat is securely anchored for safety. Along the way, delight in the serene beauty of intercoastal mangrove tree islands, oyster banks, a unique brackish marine environment, and an expansive open bay. Be watchful for strong winds in the bay, shallow and muddy bottoms with sharp oyster shells, and wakes from passing boats that might affect your stability. Stay safe and enjoy your paddling adventure!

Longer Paddling Trails

From Everglades City, you have a choice of taking the Wilderness Waterway to Flamingo, or the Gulf route. The Gulf route is shorter and generally has fewer bugs, but weather may be a deciding factor.  You will also want to consider skill level and stamina as winds and tides are a consideration.

Campsites range from chickees that have been built on pilings in rivers and bays, ground sites that have been cleared within the mangrove forests, and beach sites.

There are long open water stretches, so be mindful of weather forecasts. Guided group tours and private guides are also available if you are more comfortable going with a group.

Embarking on the journey from Everglades City to Long Key State Park, spanning around 99.5 miles via the Gulf side or 126.5 miles through the Wilderness Waterway, presents an exciting opportunity.  There is an alternative route along the mainland’s sheltered shoreline available if inclement weather arises. For this stretch, the longest without freshwater resupply, it’s essential to store your food and water securely in kayak compartments to prevent raccoon interference. Backcountry permits and valuable information can be obtained at the Gulf Coast Visitor Center in Everglades City.

This trail is segment 14 of the Segment 14-Circumnavigational Waterway

Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail Complete Trail Details

Welcome to the enchanting realm of Florida’s Ten Thousand Islands and Rookery Bay, a place rich in history where Calusa Indians once crafted canals, and outlaws found refuge among twisting mangrove keys. This hidden gem offers an ideal escape from everyday life.

Your adventure begins in Everglades City, following the Gulf shoreline north, you’ll encounter Key Island and Marco Island. Continue your adventure through Cape Romano and Whitehorse Key. After passing Whitehorse Key, you’ll soon find yourself entering the welcoming embrace of Lovers Key State Park, a perfect ending point for your unforgettable 68-mile circumnavigational trail adventure. Enjoy every moment of this beautiful journey!

Backcountry permits and valuable information can be obtained at the Gulf Coast Visitor Center in Everglades City.

This trail is segment 13 of the Segment 13-Circumnavigational Waterway

Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail Complete Trail Details

Where To Go

Parks

Big Cypress National Preserve

Parks

Collier Seminole State Park Naples

Parks

Fakahatchee Strand State Park

Parks

Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge

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