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A paved route through the Everglades' "River of Grass," with fantastic views from the Shark Valley Observation Tower.


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Map Key

15.3

Miles

24.6

KM

Loop

7' 2 m

High

4' 1 m

Low

7' 2 m

Up

7' 2 m

Down

0%

Avg Grade (0°)

0%

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Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · Views · Wildlife

ADA Accessible

Family Friendly The Tram Road is a long distance to hike with children, but if they are up for it, they will love to view the abundant wildlife and peaceful scenery along the way.

Overview

Tram Trail is a long, paved route that provides visitors with a firsthand experience in the Everglades' characteristic "River of Grass."

There is no way to shortcut the loop, so for those unable or unwilling to complete the trek, bicycle rentals are available at Shark Valley Tram Tours, located near the visitor center.

Description

After parking at the Shark Valley Visitor Center, start the journey heading west along the road. Continue along the road with your eyes peeled for this trail's characteristic "borrows" - pits left by excavation of the limestone bedrock used to construct the Tram Trail. These burrows offer refuge to many types of wildlife, including alligators, anhingas, wading birds, and turtles, so be sure to keep an eye out. For those with binoculars, these burrows offer visitors the perfect opportunity to use them.

One thing to note about this route is that the heat can be brutal during the summer months. Regardless of what time you visit the Tram Trail, be sure to drink plenty of water en route to your hike, as well as on the trail.

Florida heat can be brutal, and the last thing you want is your scenic hiking experience to be spoiled by improper hydration. For those that need to refill their water bottles along the way, there is a water fountain located near the Shark Valley Observation Tower, approximately half way around the loop.

The Tram Trail is a long distance to hike with children, but if they are up for it, they will love to view the abundant wildlife and peaceful scenery along the way. Families with children may want to consider using bicycles for the journey, as this can make the experience a little more painless, while still allowing visitors to take in their beautiful surroundings.

Flora & Fauna

Alligators, anhingas, wading birds, and turtles have been known to collect around the road's numerous borrow pits.

Contacts

Shared By:

Hunter R

Trail Ratings

  4.2 from 23 votes

#837

Overall
  4.2 from 23 votes
5 Star
43%
4 Star
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3 Star
13%
2 Star
4%
1 Star
0%
Recommended Route Rankings

#4

in Florida

#837

Overall
23 Views Last Month
2,612 Since Apr 6, 2016
Easy Easy

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Photos

Camouflage
Jun 10, 2016 near The Ham…, FL
Alligator on the side of the trail.
Mar 6, 2018 near Tamiami, FL
Heading up to the Shark Valley Observatory Tower.
Jun 23, 2016 near The Ham…, FL
Great egret (Ardea alba) on Tram Trail.
Jun 17, 2016 near Tamiami, FL

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Check-Ins

Dec 1, 2022
Jake Hofstetter
May 19, 2022
Kelly Champion-Smith
Don't know what year, but biked this with Bill
Mar 23, 2022
Maya Saterson
Dec 26, 2021
Marianna Rogers
Lots and lots of gators! Lots of birds! Lots of fun! (Lots of heat for Feli too!) 16.4mi — 3h 25m
Jul 5, 2021
Ebert Cabrera
Jun 22, 2021
Eden Bach
15.3mi — 5h 00m
May 14, 2021
Mike & Isch Hizon
Mar 5, 2021
Caroline Ulczycki
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