The Anhinga Trail is the Everglades walk that most rangers recommend to first-timers. It starts at the Royal Palm area of Everglades National Park, a few miles inside the main entrance near Homestead, and loops for under a mile along a paved path and boardwalk over a slough, a slow channel where water collects through the dry season. Wildlife concentrates here because it is one of the few places holding water, so alligators lie in the open, turtles stack on logs and anhingas dry their wings in trees above the water. Great blue herons, egrets, purple gallinules and bright-billed wood storks are frequent sights, and nesting season brings crowds of birds. The trail is flat and mostly accessible, short enough for small children and long enough to feel like a real outing. It connects to other Royal Palm trails such as Gumbo Limbo, which leads through a shaded hardwood hammock. A park entrance fee applies per vehicle, and rangers often lead talks along the path in the dry season.
The anhinga itself deserves its fame. Unlike ducks, anhingas lack waterproofing oils, so after fishing underwater they perch with their wings spread to dry, giving them the nickname snake bird for their swimming profile. You see them both swimming with only the neck above water and perched with spread wings. Around them, alligators patrol the slough, and in the dry months, when water is scarce, the density of wildlife can be extraordinary. Remember that alligators are wild and should be watched from the boardwalk, never fed or approached.
Go early or late. Morning light is soft, the animals are active and the boardwalk is quieter; midday is hot and the glare is strong. In the wet season, afternoon storms and insects make visits less comfortable, and parts of the park can be flooded. Bring water, a hat, sunscreen and repellent, and wear flat shoes. Binoculars and a zoom lens reward the effort. Check the current condition of the trail, parking and services at the visitor center, since closures after storms happen.
Combine the Anhinga Trail with other Homestead-entrance stops such as Pa-hay-okee overlook and Mahogany Hammock, or continue to Flamingo on Florida Bay. Because the experience is free of any tour cost beyond the park entry fee, this is the best-value Everglades activity, and it complements an airboat ride or a visit to the Alligator Farm in Florida City. Check the park website for current fees, hours and alerts before you go.
What to expect
The experience
A short loop of paved path and boardwalk through a slough at Royal Palm, with alligators, turtles, anhingas and herons close to the path.
Best time
Dry season mornings for peak wildlife and cooler temperatures; late afternoon for soft light.
How long
One to two hours with a walk on the Gumbo Limbo trail.
Tips
Bring water, repellent, binoculars and a zoom lens, stay on the boardwalk, never feed wildlife, and check current park conditions.
Quick picks
- Best for
- First-time visitors and wildlife photographers
- Families
- Excellent for families with children
- Couples
- A relaxed morning walk
- Pair with
- Alligator Farm, Pa-hay-okee overlook
- Time needed
- One to two hours
Good questions
How long is the Anhinga Trail?+
The loop is under a mile and takes most visitors about an hour, depending on how long they linger.
Is there a fee?+
The trail is free, but Everglades National Park charges an entrance fee per vehicle. Check the current rate.
Is it accessible?+
The path is flat and paved or boardwalk, and is generally considered one of the most accessible trails in the park. Check current conditions.
When is the best time?+
Winter and early spring, when water is low and wildlife concentrates.
Are alligators dangerous here?+
They are wild animals and can be dangerous if approached or fed. Keep to the path and keep your distance.
