Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park is a long, narrow slough of cypress and royal palm, sometimes called the Amazon of North America for the density and rarity of its plants. The Big Cypress Bend Boardwalk, on the Tamiami Trail near Copeland, is the easiest place to see it: a roughly half-mile walkway that carries you from the road into old-growth bald cypress, past strangler figs, ferns and bromeliads, and out to a pond where alligators and wading birds are common. The park holds more native orchid species than almost anywhere in the United States, including the famous ghost orchid, which flowers in summer and is usually seen only by spotting it on a distant tree with binoculars. A rebuilt boardwalk has welcomed visitors after storm damage, though conditions can change, so check the status before you go. Admission is modest and the pace is slow. For travelers who prefer forest to marsh, this is a worthwhile contrast to the sawgrass of the airboat ride.
The Fakahatchee is a strand
A linear forested wetland where water flows slowly south through a depression, supporting a wet forest of cypress and palm. The royal palms here are native and among the tallest in Florida, and the shade supports an unusual mix of tropical and temperate plants. The area was heavily logged for cypress in the twentieth century, but the Big Cypress Bend section still holds old trees, making it feel older than the surrounding swamp. The boardwalk is level and short, so it works for children and for slower walkers.
Go early in the morning, when the light filters through the canopy and birds are active, or on an overcast day. Bring insect repellent in all seasons, since mosquitoes can be intense in the shade, and binoculars for orchids and birds. In the wet season, the humidity is heavy and storms are common, but the forest is greenest and the ghost orchid blooms around then.
Wear shoes with grip, since the boardwalk can be slick. Phone coverage is limited. Check with the park for the latest on the boardwalk and any ranger-led walks, which are offered on some days.
Combine the Fakahatchee with Big Cypress National Preserve, a Clyde Butcher gallery stop and a meal in Everglades City to make a coherent western Tamiami Trail day. If you are driving from Miami, plan on a long day or an overnight in Everglades City or Naples. If you only have a short time, the Oasis boardwalk is nearer to Miami. Check the state park's website for current hours, fees and alerts before you go.
What to expect
The experience
A roughly half-mile boardwalk through old-growth cypress and royal palm swamp to a pond, in Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park.
Best time
Early morning for filtered light and birds; summer for blooming orchids but heavier humidity and insects.
How long
One to two hours.
Tips
Wear grippy shoes, bring repellent and binoculars, and check the park website for boardwalk status and fees.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Nature lovers who like forest and quiet
- Families
- Good for families with children who like short walks
- Couples
- A peaceful, romantic stop
- Pair with
- Big Cypress Preserve, Everglades City lunch
- Time needed
- One to two hours
Good questions
Where is the boardwalk?+
On the Tamiami Trail near Copeland, on the road between Miami and Naples, within Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park.
What is the ghost orchid?+
A rare leafless orchid that blooms in summer and is usually spotted high in a tree with binoculars. Do not count on seeing one.
Is there a fee?+
There is typically a small day-use fee. Check the park website for the current amount and how to pay.
Is the boardwalk open?+
It was rebuilt after storm damage. Check the park website for current status before you travel.
Are there mosquitoes?+
Yes. Bring repellent in all seasons, especially in the summer wet season.
