Exploring the Florida Everglades
January 10-11, 2025
Friday - Saturday (2 days, 1 night)
$1,100 per person double occupancy ($1,200 single occupancy)
Price includes a $50 tax-deductible donation to Friends
Often referred to as a swamp or a forested wetland, the Everglades are a vast, slow-moving river system. As the largest remaining subtropical wilderness in the United States, it encompasses nine distinct habitats and serves as a sanctuary for many wildlife species, including 16 that are threatened or endangered. Beyond providing crucial shelter and protection for numerous animals, the Everglades are also vital to humans, supplying drinking water to seven million Floridians.
The Friends of Boca Grande will take 12 travelers on an immersive exploration of the Florida Everglades, experiencing its wonders by airboat, tram, and on foot.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
- Take a one-hour airboat tour of the River of Grass to experience the unique landscape and wildlife of the Everglades from the comfort of an airboat.
- Enjoy a two-hour narrated tram tour of Everglades National Park at Shark Valley, the “heart of the Everglades.” At the halfway point, a 45-foot-high observation deck offers stunning views of the tranquil Everglades, extending 20 miles in all directions.
- Learn about the construction of the Tamiami Trail at Collier-Seminole State Park. Discover the history of Florida’s “last frontier” and see the last existing Bay City Walking Dredge, which was used to build the trail through the vast wilderness of the Everglades and Big Cypress Swamp.
- Visit the Big Cypress Swamp National Preserve, renowned for its 500-year-old cypress trees. Learn about their unique underwater-adapted roots and gain insights into the habitat and wildlife from a knowledgeable ranger.
- Wade through the crystal-clear waters of a cypress swamp while you immerse yourself in the wonders of Big Cypress. Walk up to 1 mile through incredible scenery and terrain that takes you to areas where you will get to wade through water for a true swamp experience.
Activity Notes:
Moderate activity level with walking on trails and wading through the cypress; walking sticks provided. Wear long pants and closed-toe shoes that can be tied tightly, preferably older sneakers that are ok to get muddy and/or wet.
Included in your trip:
- Round trip transportation from Boca Grande
- Excursions and overnight lodging at the Ivey House Everglades Adventure Hotel
- All meals, including a wine/ beer reception (one breakfast, two lunches & one dinner)
Call the Friends office at (941) 964-0827 for more information on how to sign up!
