Big Cypress Bend Boardwalk

Big Cypress Bend Boardwalk is 2,500 feet long and winds through a beautiful, pristine section of the Fakahatchee Strand swamp and ends at an alligator pond and observation deck. This is a great place for visitors to get an introduction to the preserve and for those that are just looking for a short hike. The boardwalk is located off U.S. 41, about 7 miles west of State Road 29.

Along the 2,500 foot long boardwalk are lookouts/rain shelters with seating. There are over 40 signs telling you about all the wildlife you could see as well as educating you about the parks history. The boardwalk takes you through the largest Bald Cypress / Royal Palm swamp in the world. You are stepping into the central slough, the deepest part of the Fakahatchee Strand. Most of the trees here are hundreds of years old. While you are there keep a look out for wild Ghost Orchids. There are active Bald Eagle nests too!

The lake, or gator hole, at the end of the boardwalk is a great place to rest and watch the alligators that make the lake their home. Often adult female alligators and two or three generations of juvenile alligators can be found basking in the sun. The pond also supports many wading and diving birds including Green Herons, Pileated Woodpeckers, and Barred Owls.

In the building there is also a gallery featuring “today’s artist”.

Leave your fishing gear at home, fishing is prohibited from both the bridge and boardwalk. The clean, modern bathrooms are conveniently located by the parking lot and there are trashcans nearby. The park opens at 8 am and closes at sundown.

When you visit be sure to drop the suggested donation of $3 into the sturdy box located at the trail-head. Donations go to the Friends of Fakahatchee, the nonprofit that supports the park and maintains the boardwalk.