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.
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.