How Long Is The Shark Valley Loop?

15.8-mile.
Experience this 15.8-mile loop trail near Homestead, Florida. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 4 h 29 min to complete. This is a very popular area for road biking, running, and walking, so you’ll likely encounter other people while exploring.

How long does it take to ride Shark Valley?

between 2 and 3 hours
The 15-mile paved road is ideal for any type of bicycle, and the road is flat and free of rough terrain. A typical ride takes between 2 and 3 hours, and it usually involves many stops because there’s just so much to see.

Can you walk through Shark Valley?

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. (walk) This self-guided boardwalk trail meanders through the sawgrass slough and tropical hardwood forests.

Can you drive to the Shark Valley observation tower?

The Shark Valley road is 15 miles but you can only see it by walking, biking, or taking a tram tour. You cannot drive the Shark Valley road in your own car! If you’re biking to the observation tower, just do the whole loop.

Why is it called Shark Valley?

The area is located just 25 miles west of the Florida Turnpike. Visitors here won’t find any sharks, though: Shark Valley is named for two of its estuaries, the Shark River and Little Shark River, nearby waterways that are home to several shark species.

Are there crocodiles in Shark Valley?

As seen in this photo, crocodiles, too, are known to venture outside of their primary habitat. At Shark Valley, a freshwater area, Park Rangers and visitors have reported seeing a crocodile swimming and basking around the Observation Tower for years. Have you ever seen gators and crocs hanging out in the same spot?

Can you see alligators at Shark Valley?

It’s the wildlife that’s so impressive – a wide variety of birds, turtles, frogs … and the main attraction – alligators! You’ll see big alligators and baby alligators. They’ll be basking in the sunny grass or floating in the stream next to the main trail.

Is Shark Valley worth visiting?

Shark Valley is one of the best spots in the Everglades for animal viewing. This is the spot to see turtles, birds, and tons of alligators. There is a 7.5 mile road and bike trail from the Visitor Center to an elevated observation deck.

Are there sharks in Shark Valley?

Well, although sharks are one form of wildlife that you will not see in the shallow waters of the Everglades within Shark Valley, they’re not terribly far away.

How much is parking at Shark Valley?

Shark Valley Everglades at a Glance
The park is about an hour from Miami, 25 miles west of the Florida Turnpike on Tamiami Trail. See the Florida Everglades Map here. Park Entrance Fee: $30 per Vehicle, $25 motorcycle, $15 pedestrians (16+) or bicycles.

How much does it cost to get into Shark Valley?

$30.00 per car
National Park Entrance Fee
$30.00 per car, $25.00 per motorcycle, or $15.00 per hiker/biker.

How far is the bike ride at Shark Valley?

15 miles
Join a ranger on a scenic bicycle tour of the Shark Valley Bicycle Loop and learn about the various ecosystems, wildlife and cultural history of the Everglades. Total distance is 15 miles.

Which entrance to Everglades is best?

If you want the opportunity to observe the heart of the everglades you can either enter through Shark Valley in Miami or the Main Entrance of the Park in Homestead. However, if you are looking to explore the Gulf Coast, then you should plan to take a boat trip at the Gulf Coast in Everglades City.

Is Shark Valley part of Everglades National Park?

Shark Valley – Tamiami – Everglades National Park (U.S. National Park Service)

What is the shark bite capital of the world?

Volusia County is the so-called shark bite capital of the world. According to WUSF, last year Volusia’s 17 shark bites represented 15% of the global total.

Is Shark Valley Open?

Shark Valley Area: Open daily from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM. There is an entrance fee collected at the gate.

Is it safer to swim with sharks or crocodiles?

Alligators more dangerous than most species of shark. Crocodiles are even worse.

What animals are in Shark Valley?

Recent Wildlife Sightings

  • Alligator.
  • Red-Winged Blackbird.
  • Baby gators.
  • Red-bellied Turtle.
  • Double Crested Cormorant.
  • Great Egret.
  • Great Blue Heron.
  • Anhinga.

What can I bring to Shark Valley?

Bring plenty of water, sun protection, and snacks (limited snacks available for purchase through Shark Valley Tram Tours). Plan on walking, bicycling, or taking a tram tour during your visit; vehicles are not allowed on the trail.

What time of day is best to see alligators?

Primarily, alligators choose the dusk or night hours for their feedings. They don’t usually travel far for a meal, but you can usually see their jaws come up from the water in an attempt to catch a bird or other small creature.

What is the best time of year to see alligators in the Everglades?

The Best Time to Spot Gators
The Everglades wet season lasts from June to November, and these warmer months are typically when more gators are found. Since alligators are cold-blooded, they tend to sunbathe on the Everglades banks in order to stay warm, you could see this during an Everglades excursion.