Pa-hay-okee Overlook Everglades National Park
Experience the vast 'river of grass' from an observation tower on an accessible boardwalk. Stunning panoramic views of the Everglades.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best wildlife sightings
Pa-hay-okee Overlook Everglades National Park
Best Time
Best wildlife sightings
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the vast 'river of grass' from an observation tower on an accessible boardwalk. Stunning panoramic views of the Everglades.
"It was nice and peaceful to see the sun starting to set here."
🦟 Mosquito Repellent is Key
Mosquitos can be intense, especially at dusk. Bring strong repellent for a comfortable visit.
🚶♀️ Easy Boardwalk Stroll
The 0.2-mile boardwalk is flat and accessible, perfect for all ages and fitness levels.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pa-hay-okee Overlook Tower
Boardwalk observation tower
Ascend for breathtaking, panoramic views of the vast Everglades sawgrass prairies. A true 'river of grass' vista.
Sawgrass Prairie Vista
From the overlook
Experience the iconic 'river of grass' stretching to the horizon, a unique and expansive wetland landscape.
Dragonfly and Birdwatching
Along the boardwalk
Keep an eye out for numerous dragonflies and various bird species that inhabit the wetlands.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Wildlife
Embrace the Boardwalk Experience
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🦟 Mosquito Repellent is Key
Mosquitos can be intense, especially at dusk. Bring strong repellent for a comfortable visit.
🚶♀️ Easy Boardwalk Stroll
The 0.2-mile boardwalk is flat and accessible, perfect for all ages and fitness levels.
📸 Capture the Vista
The overlook offers incredible photo opportunities of the vast landscape.
🦉 Wildlife Spotting
Look for birds and dragonflies; sightings can vary. Anhinga Trail is often better for more diverse wildlife.
Tips
from all over the internet
🦟 Mosquito Repellent is Key
Mosquitos can be intense, especially at dusk. Bring strong repellent for a comfortable visit.
🚶♀️ Easy Boardwalk Stroll
The 0.2-mile boardwalk is flat and accessible, perfect for all ages and fitness levels.
📸 Capture the Vista
The overlook offers incredible photo opportunities of the vast landscape.
🦉 Wildlife Spotting
Look for birds and dragonflies; sightings can vary. Anhinga Trail is often better for more diverse wildlife.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Pa-hay-okee Overlook to be a beautiful spot for panoramic views of the Everglades' 'river of grass,' especially at sunset. While some found wildlife sightings limited compared to other park trails, the accessible boardwalk and stunning vistas make it a worthwhile, peaceful stop for many. [^Review]
"We visited on a Thursday late afternoon in late Dec 2024. We were on a Everglades Institute Tour (tour guide Maria was the best) which was great because we were all given ear pieces to listen to our tour guide. We also noticed a lot of other guests just started following us around and listening to our tour guide. We arrived right around dusk which was unfortunate because all the mosquitos started coming out.
Of all the trails we did in the Everglades this may have been the most disappointing, animal sighting wise. I think we saw one or two birds way far out at the over look. It was nice and peaceful to see the sun starting to set here but we were sad we ended on such a low note for our tour. We left the tour group here as they headed back to the Ernest Coe Visitor Center and we continued to Flamingo as we had reservations there for the night.
The trail was short and based on that alone I would probably give it another try if we came back. But wouldn't go out of my way to hit it either. Anhinga trail was the best."
David L.
"Nice little trail, say tons of dragonflies"
Shannon Fultz
"One of my favorite places to visit when I go to the Everglades. Just so much beauty and wildlife to see. If you like birdwatching then you will have a great time."
Photography by Satesh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Pa-hay-okee Overlook is located about 38 miles from Homestead within Everglades National Park. Follow the main park road (State Road 9336) west. The overlook is well-signed and easily accessible from the road.
Yes, there is a dedicated parking area available at the Pa-hay-okee Overlook. It's usually sufficient for visitors, but can fill up during peak times.
While biking is popular in other parts of the Everglades like Shark Valley, Pa-hay-okee is primarily accessed by car. The main park road is suitable for cycling, but the overlook itself is a short walk from the parking lot.
For a quick immersion, Pa-hay-okee offers a great view. For a deeper dive into the ecosystem and more wildlife, consider trails like Anhinga or Mahogany Hammock.
While you can visit independently, Pa-hay-okee is often included in guided tours of Everglades National Park, offering insights from park rangers or tour guides.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Pa-hay-okee Overlook is located within Everglades National Park, which requires an entrance fee. You can purchase passes at park entrances or online.
Pa-hay-okee Overlook is accessible during Everglades National Park's operating hours, which are generally from sunrise to sunset. Always check the official NPS website for current hours.
No, the Pa-hay-okee Overlook is included with your general park entrance fee. There are no separate charges to access the boardwalk or observation tower.
You can purchase park entrance passes online in advance through the official NPS website to save time upon arrival.
Everglades National Park offers various passes, including annual passes, senior passes, and access passes for individuals with disabilities. Check the NPS website for eligibility.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The boardwalk trail is very short, only about 0.2 miles. Most visitors spend 15-30 minutes here to enjoy the views and take photos.
You might see various birds, dragonflies, and small aquatic life in the water below. For more abundant alligator sightings, trails like Anhinga are recommended.
Yes, the boardwalk is generally flat and wide enough to accommodate strollers and wheelchairs, making it accessible for most visitors.
Restroom facilities are typically available at nearby visitor centers or picnic areas within Everglades National Park. It's advisable to check the park map for the closest facilities.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, light clothing, and sun protection (hat, sunscreen). Be prepared for humidity and potential mosquitos by bringing insect repellent.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting for capturing the expansive landscape. Midday can be harsh, but still offers great views of the 'river of grass'.
A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the panoramic vistas. A telephoto lens can be useful for photographing distant birds.
The observation tower itself provides the primary elevated viewpoint. The entire boardwalk offers different angles of the surrounding sawgrass prairie.
Drone usage is restricted in national parks. Always check the official Everglades National Park website for current regulations regarding drone operation.
Focus on the vastness of the sawgrass prairie, the unique textures of the wetlands, and any wildlife you might spot, like birds or dragonflies.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Kids will be fascinated by the vastness of the 'river of grass' and can enjoy spotting dragonflies and birds along the way. It's a great way to introduce children to the unique Everglades ecosystem without a strenuous hike. Remember to bring plenty of water and mosquito repellent, as the Florida humidity and insects can be a factor. 📸 Photographers
Consider visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for dramatic lighting that enhances the textures and colors of the landscape. While wildlife might be sparse, keep an eye out for birds and insects that can add interest to your shots. 🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts
While it may not offer the most diverse wildlife encounters, it’s a peaceful spot to connect with the natural environment. Combine your visit with other trails like Anhinga or Mahogany Hammock for a more comprehensive experience of the park's biodiversity. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'River of Grass' Explained
This expansive view is not just visually striking; it's a vital habitat for numerous species. While direct wildlife sightings at the overlook itself might be limited to birds and insects, the surrounding sawgrass prairie teems with life. Understanding this landscape is key to appreciating the conservation efforts within Everglades National Park.
Many visitors find the sheer openness and the subtle beauty of the sawgrass prairie to be a profound experience. It's a landscape that changes with the light and seasons, offering a different perspective each time you visit. The overlook provides a moment of quiet contemplation amidst this immense natural wonder.
Wildlife Spotting: What to Expect
For a higher chance of encountering more diverse wildlife, such as alligators and a wider array of birds, other trails within Everglades National Park are generally recommended. The Anhinga Trail and the Mahogany Hammock Trail are frequently cited as better locations for wildlife viewing.
However, the overlook can still offer glimpses of the ecosystem's inhabitants, especially during dawn and dusk when many animals are most active. It's important to manage expectations for wildlife at Pa-hay-okee. While it offers a stunning landscape, its primary draw is the expansive vista. If your main goal is to see alligators or a multitude of birds up close, consider prioritizing other areas of the park. Nevertheless, the overlook remains a beautiful and accessible spot to appreciate the unique Everglades environment.
Accessibility and Visitor Experience
This ensures that families with young children, individuals with mobility challenges, and anyone looking for an easy stroll can enjoy the stunning views without difficulty. The observation tower provides an elevated perspective, allowing visitors to take in the full sweep of the sawgrass prairie. The short length of the trail means it's a quick and rewarding stop, perfect for those on a tighter schedule or looking for a brief immersion into the Everglades.
Many visitors appreciate the ease of access and the immediate payoff of the panoramic scenery. While the overlook is easily accessible, it's important to be prepared for the Florida climate. The area can be humid, and mosquitos can be present, especially during certain times of the day and year. Bringing insect repellent and staying hydrated are recommended for a comfortable experience.
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