Friends of Fakahatchee: Dedicated to financial and volunteer support to preserve the unique ecology and cultural heritage of Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park and educate the public about its importance.
Hiking and Biking Trails in the Fakahatchee
For trail conditions call the Fakahatchee park office 239-961-1925
The two main trails are the East Main trail at gate #7 and West Main trail at gate #12. The shortest trail is called Yellow trail at gate #3. Trail entrances are accessed from Janes Scenic Drive.
More information about trails can be found on the maps of this page that you can print.
When exploring trails, make sure you are prepared for swamp conditions as parts of trails can be wet and slippery. This minimally includes wearing good traction shoes and using a walking stick. The Fakahatchee Preserve can be buggy and appropriate attire such as long-sleeved shirt and long pants will add to your comfort.
Directions to Janes Scenic Drive, the Fakahatchee’s Main entrance and location of Park office.
From Highaway-75 (Alligator Alley) take exit # 80 unto Route 29 via South. On Route 29 drive approx. 15 miles south to make a right turn on Janes Scenic Drive. Continue on Janes Scenic and within a few minutes you will see a large sign indicating you have entered the Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park. A right turn onto Coastline Drive will take you to the park’s entrance pay station next to the small visitor center and the Parks’ restrooms. Park office is in the back of the visitor center.
From US Route 41 (Tamiami Trail):
Coming from the East turn right on Route 29 (via north), drive approx. 3 miles to turn left on Janes Scenic Drive.
Coming from the West turn left onto Route 29 (via north), drive approx. 3 miles to turn left on janes Scenic Drive.
Continue on Janes Scenic and within a few minutes you will see a large sign indicating you have entered the Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park. A right turn onto Coastline Drive will take you to the park’s entrance pay station next to the small visitor center and the Parks’ restrooms. Park office is in the back of the visitor center.
IMPORTANT: East River paddle trail map: Entrance to the East River is gated. To paddle the East River ( map below) reservations are required to obtain the gate code, call the Fakahatchee park office 239-961-1925.
Download maps to plan your adventures in the Fakahatchee
You can read more about options for exploration in these articles:
Fishing in the FakahatcheeA walk down Gate # 3 Trail
The Combined Fakahatchee East Main–Pennington Post–Uplands Trails Loop
Hiking and Biking the Fakahatchee
Biking The Fakahatchee
Trails Less-Travelled
Experience the Fakahatchee East Main Trail at Gate #12