Wilderness Walking Tour

Hiking in The Big Cypress Swamp

Want to explore the beauty of the Big Cypress Swamp and learn about its fascinating ecosystem? Join our professional experts for a fun and informative hike!

Southern Florida is a giant bumpy slope where sheet flow covers the land for at least half the year and flows steadily to the Gulf of Mexico and the Florida Bay. On its way, it swells over pine forests, swirls around hardwood hammocks, sinks into Cypress Domes and stretches along Cypress Strands. These high and low points begin at 8.5 feet above sea level and reach a lofty 13 feet above sea level, and yet in only 5 feet of difference, four distinct habitats shelter the life of this wet and wild world.

Our Wilderness Walks take you through these unique habitats with explanations of the changes in flora and how local wildlife uses these areas. Nature Walks will begin at the Oasis Visitor Center and will be lead by an Institute naturalist. Let us know if you are looking for a dry or a wet walk and we will do our best to accommodate.

Please be sure to bring water, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Things to wear: a hat, loose long sleeve shirt and shoes that lace and that you don’t mind getting wet.

Through this program, you will never see this land as flat or impassable again, but as a welcoming mosaic of subtle beauty, serenity and unique life!

[For ages 7 and up. Call 239-719-2483 for more information]