While visiting family in Miami, we made a spontaneous stop at Shark Valley in Everglades National Park—and we’re so glad we did! Just west of the city, Shark Valley offers a unique window into one of the most fascinating ecosystems in the world.

Since it was early May, the summer rains hadn’t arrived yet, and the Shark Valley Slough was mostly dry. But that didn’t mean it was quiet—far from it! Water still lingered in culverts and low spots, drawing in wildlife from all around.

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🚋 Exploring by Tram

We hopped on the tram tour, which winds through 15 miles of sawgrass prairie, cypress domes, and hardwood hammocks. Along the way, we spotted:

• A juvenile alligator sunning near the road

• A Florida softshell turtle gliding through the water

• A great blue heron wading in the shallows

• And a mother alligator peeking out from a culvert!

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🏞️ Tower Views & Wildlife Moments

The highlight of the tour was the observation tower, where we walked up the ramp and were rewarded with sweeping views of the Everglades stretching to the horizon. It was a peaceful, powerful reminder of the beauty and resilience of this landscape.

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Until the next adventure,

—The Tezels