Spanning the southern tip of the Florida peninsula and most of Florida Bay, Everglades National Park is the only subtropical preserve in North America. It contains both temperate and tropical plant communities, including sawgrass prairies, mangrove and cypress swamps, pinelands, and hardwood hammocks, as well as marine and estuarine environments.

The park is known for its rich bird life, particularly large wading birds, such as the roseate spoonbill, wood stork, great blue heron and a variety of egrets. It is also the only place in the world where alligators and crocodiles exist side by side.

Everglades National Park has been designated a World Heritage Site, an International Biosphere Reserve, and a Wetland of International Importance.

Shark Valley lies in the heart of the "river of grass". Wildlife abounds here in a freshwater ecosystem of sawgrass marsh and tree islands.

A 15-mile (24 km) tram road (not open to private motorized vehicles) extends into the marsh, offering one of the best opportunities to view alligators.

A two hour narrated tram ride provides an overview of the freshwater Everglades. Bicycles are available to rent. Those wishing to explore alone can walk the short trails and portions of the tram road, or bike. An observation tower located halfway around the tram road provides a spectacular view into the sawgrass marsh.

Source: National Park Service

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