Shark Valley Ranger Guided Tours

Four cyclists on the Shark Valley Road under a blue sky.

NPS Photo

Shark Valley offers 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. You can also check the current status of programs by calling the Shark Valley Visitor Center (305) 221-8776 or the main park line at (305) 242-7700.

Program Descriptions

Below are summaries of all ranger-led programs available at Shark Valley. Most programs are only offered in the Dry Season (Mid December - April). Programs are free with park entrance fee unless otherwise noted.

  • Soar, Swim and Stroll (10:15 am Daily November 8 - April 3)

    For programs April 3 - November 1 check in with the visitor center
    Join a park ranger or volunteer for a stroll around Shark Valley. Come learn about how the animals swim, soar, slither, stalk and survive. Topics can include history, wildlife, native plants and other unique factors that make the Everglades a special place. 30 minutes. Wheelchair accessible. Inquire at the visitor center for starting location

  • Flora, Fauna and Fun (1:15 Daily December 16-April 3)

For programs April 3 - November 1 check in with the visitor center
The Everglades story is a complex tale of plants, animals, water, and history. Join us at the visitor center for a short talk and get an in-depth glimpse of the Everglades. 30 minutes. Wheelchair accessible.

  • Shark Bites (Daily-check with visitor center for times)

    Dive deep and sink your teeth into an Everglades topic. Join a park ranger or park volunteers they grab a subject and break it down to its bits and pieces. Topics can range from specific species, a niche rock, or a granular factor that keeps the Everglades flowing. 15 Minutes. Inquire at visitor center for program times and location.
  • Shark Valley Slough Slog (Reservations Required, offered January through April)

    Trails crisscross the slough, a slow-moving river, that forms the Basis of the Everglades. Join a ranger to immerse yourself in the "River of Grass". Be prepared for a walk through knee-to waist deep waters, muddy conditions, uneven terrain and plenty of sharp sawgrass. Pants, close-toed shoes and hiking pole (provided) are required.

    Reservations will be taken 1 week prior to the scheduled walk. All participants must be at least 12 years old. Call 305-221-8776 for more information. 2 hours.

    2024 Dates: March 2, March 7, March 16, March 21 March 30 (Program subject to change due to trail conditions)

  • Full Moon/New Moon Bike Ride (Reservations Required, offered January through April)

Watch an amazing sunset over the sawgrass prairie. Listen to the Everglades "night symphony" as the full moon climbs slowly into the sky. Climb the observation tower to enjoy the mystery and to feel the magic of the Everglades at night. Join a park ranger for an evening 15-mile bike ride in the dark. (Program start time changes with light levels. Please call Shark Valley Visitor Center for start time 305-221-8776)

Your own bicycle is required. Reservations are required and will be taken 1 week prior to the scheduled ride. Call the Shark Valley Visitor Center at 305-221-8776.

2024 Dates: March 6, March 20, April 3

  • Stars Above, Glades Below Night Program

    Join rangers and volunteers for a walk or talk to experience the night sky over the sawgrass prairie and learn about the wonders of space.This galactic journey can feature stars, planets, meteors, constellations, and nocturnal wildlife. Every program is different, depending on sights in the sky and sounds from the marsh. Program is approximately 2 hours. (Program start time changes with light levels. Please call Shark Valley Visitor Center for start time 305-221-8776)
Reservations will be taken 1 week prior to the scheduled event. Call the Shark valley visitor Center 305-221-8776

2024 Dates:
March 7, March 25, April 6

  • Shark Valley Tram Tours (Reservations Recommended, offered year round)

    Find yourself immersed in the "River of Grass", the very heart of the Everglades. Chances to see alligators, wading birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat abounds. Narrated by a park ranger or park naturalist. For reservations, pricing, and additional information, call (305) 221-8455. Reservations recommended. Trams offered hourly December 16-April 30. Visit www.sharkvalleytramtours.com


Directions to Shark Valley

 
A ranger stands in front of a group of visitors.
Calendar

Use the calendar below to find information about the park's ranger-led programs, events and more!

The NPS arrowhead and ranger's flat hat against a blue sky.
Plan Like a Park Ranger

Top 10 list to #PlanLikeaParkRanger for a visit to Everglades National Park.

Trams with seated visitors on the Shark Valley Tram road under a bright blue sky.
Shark Valley Tram Tour

Guided two-hour narrated tram tours are offered along a fifteen-mile loop trail into the "River of Grass."

Last updated: March 28, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

40001 State Road 9336
Homestead, FL 33034-6733

Phone:

305 242-7700

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