When we were in Florida a couple of years ago we made a trip through Everglades National Park and I must say that I’m really glad that we did. A lot of this portion of Florida seems to get a lot of press because of the beaches and resort type areas but the Everglades park reminds of what Florida must have looked like before the state was settled in the prime of historic wilderness.
The park is located about 35 miles outside of Miami, so it’s not a bad drive if you’re already in the area anyway. If you love wildlife and nature, you’re sure to love the Everglades park. When we were there we saw just about everything from pelicans (of course) to sea turtles as well as manatees and I was even fortunate enough to spot a bald eagle. I’m glad I took my camera along because I came home with some really great shots. One day I hope to have some of them enlarged and framed to hang in our home.
Not only was the park really beautiful, in a wild sort of way, but it also gave us the opportunity to see some sites that you just wouldn’t see many other places. At least not where we live. We took the opportunity to tour the Alligator Farm, which was definitely a unique experience. I have to admit it’s a little creepy being that close to these huge ‘gators that look like they would like nothing better than to make their next meal out of you, but at the same time it was a thrilling experience to see them in their natural habitat. I could have really done without the snake exhibit but our sons thought it was totally cool so I guess that was worth it. For me, the best part of the whole trip was the airboat ride. I had never done that before so it was a really great, new experience. Our kids still talk about and ask if we can go back.
For great photography opportunities, you can beat the Ahinga Trail. It only takes about 20 minutes to hike it, but it’s the perfect place to catch sight of some of the animals right in their native habitat. I’m sure that you if happen to be a birdwatcher, it would be like heaven on earth. There is an elevated boardwalk that allows you to get really close to most of the creatures right in there natural element and still be safe at the same time.
