Royal Palm Ranger Guided Tours

Wade through the River of Grass into the shadows of a "gator hole" or a cypress dome on a slough slog/wet hike.

NPS Photo

Royal Palm and surrounding areas offer many exciting ranger guided tours! These programs can vary greatly by season, and are subject to rescheduling or cancellation in the case of inclement weather.

Check our park calendar to see scheduled programs for the Royal Palm area. You can also check the current status of programs by calling the main park line at [phone].

 

Program Descriptions

Below are the summaries of all ranger-led programs available in Royal Palm and other areas nearby. Most programs are only offered in the Dry Season (November - April). Programs are free with park entrance fee unless otherwise noted.

Year-round Programs: The Anhinga Amble and Glades Glimpse are offered every day, year-round, including during the summer months!

• Anhinga Amble (Year-round)

• Interested in seeing wildlife? Take a stroll and explore the renowned Anhinga Trail where alligators, wading birds and other wildlife are easily spotted! Meet at the Royal Palm benches. Wheelchair accessible. 0.7 miles, 50 minutes. Available every day at 10:30am, 365 days a year!

• Glades Glimpse (Year-round)

  The Everglades is a place like no other! Sit in the shade as a ranger reveals the amazing wonders of the Everglades. Topics vary daily. Meet at the Royal Palm benches. Accessible. 20 minutes. Available select days at 10:30am and every day at 1:30pm, 365 days a year!

• Bike Hike (Reservations Required, December - March 31)

  Explore the natural wonders of the Everglades by bicycle! Bikes, helmets, and water provided. Call [phone] or stop by the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center for reservations, no greater than one week in advance (ages 12 and up), 5 to 10 miles, 2.5 hours. Strenuous.

• Evening Program (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, January - March 31)

  Join a park ranger for this illustrated program focusing on the unique natural or cultural wonders of the Everglades. Check bulletin boards and visitor centers for program topics. Meet at Long Pine Key Campground Amphitheater. Accessible. 45 minutes.

• Nike Missile Site (December - March 31)

  Step into the Cold War for a tour of the historic Nike Missile Site, HM69. See an actual missile and many of the original support buildings. Guided tours begin at the Daniel Beard Center and are every afternoon between December and March. Accessible, 0.7 miles, 1.5 hours.

• Slough Slog / Wet Walk (Reservations Required, December - March 31)

  Wade through the River of Grass into the shadows of a "gator hole" or a cypress dome. Wear lace-up shoes, socks and long pants that can get wet or muddy. Call [phone] or stop by the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center for reservations, no greater than one week in advance (ages 12 and up), 1 to 2 miles, 2 hours. Strenuous.

• Starlight Walk (Monday, Friday, January - March 31)

  Experience the Anhinga Trail by starlight! Night is just as busy as day; listen for pig frogs, look for fireflies and gator eyes! Meet at the Royal Palm benches. Flashlight optional. Accessible, 0.7 miles, 45 minutes.
  
  

Directions to Royal Palm