loop road – Big cypress national Preserve

Scenic Drive in the Western Everglades

Turn south off Tamiami Trail (US 41) at the site of Monroe Station. Loop Road will take you on a 27-mile drive through dwarf cypress and pine forests.  Several opportunities for wildlife viewing along the way.

A short distance from Tamiami Trail is Gator Hook Trail head.  Wonderful detour on your scenic drive and the location of iconic image ‘Gator Hook 1’ from legendary photographer Clyde Butcher.

I’ve  taken multiple drives on Loop Rd. My preferred direction is to enter Loop Rd on the west side and travel east to Miccosukee before reentering Tamiami Trail.  Traveling scenic Loop Rd provides an opportunity to see a remote area of Big Cypress National Preserve from your vehicle. As for wildlife, we’ve seen countless gators, Barred Owls, Roseatte Spoonbills, Great Blue Herons, Little Green Herons, Ibis, Egrets, Swallow Tail Kites, Knight Herons and many other birds.

If you’re visiting the western Everglades in The Big Cypress National Preserve, Loop Rd is a must see.  The National Park Service has produced a nice guide for your ride.