Snake Bight Trail
An unmaintained, overgrown trail leading to a bay observation deck, teeming with wildlife and offering a true Everglades adventure.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy solitude and wildlife
Snake Bight Trail
Best Time
Enjoy solitude and wildlife
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An unmaintained, overgrown trail leading to a bay observation deck, teeming with wildlife and offering a true Everglades adventure.
"Persevere through the overgrowth and bugs for a rewarding bay view and wildlife encounters."
Bug Spray is Non-Negotiable
Mosquitos and biting insects are prevalent. Apply generously and reapply often! :bug:
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The trail can be muddy and overgrown. Waterproof boots are recommended. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Snake Bight Observation Deck
End of the trail
A boardwalk offering a bay view, perfect for birdwatching and spotting marine life.
Wildlife Encounters
Along the trail and at the bay
Keep an eye out for diverse bird species, snakes, spiders, and even horseshoe crabs.
The Journey Through Nature
The entire trail
Experience a unique, overgrown trail that immerses you in the wild Florida Everglades.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Overgrowth
Timing is Everything
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bug Spray is Non-Negotiable
Mosquitos and biting insects are prevalent. Apply generously and reapply often! :bug:
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The trail can be muddy and overgrown. Waterproof boots are recommended. :athletic_shoe:
Go Early for Solitude
Beat the crowds and enjoy the wildlife undisturbed by arriving at sunrise. :sunrise:
Check Trail Conditions
The trail can be completely underwater after storms. Check recent reports before you go. :warning:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bug Spray is Non-Negotiable
Mosquitos and biting insects are prevalent. Apply generously and reapply often! :bug:
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The trail can be muddy and overgrown. Waterproof boots are recommended. :athletic_shoe:
Go Early for Solitude
Beat the crowds and enjoy the wildlife undisturbed by arriving at sunrise. :sunrise:
Check Trail Conditions
The trail can be completely underwater after storms. Check recent reports before you go. :warning:
Bring Water and Snacks
There are no facilities along the trail. Stay hydrated and fueled for your adventure. :water_wave:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Snake Bight Trail to be an adventure, with many acknowledging its overgrown and buggy nature. While not the most scenic trail itself, the observation deck at the bay offers rewarding views and wildlife sightings, making the trek worthwhile for many. Be prepared for unmaintained conditions and potential flooding.
"Like mentioned in other reviews, the trail isn't that exciting, but the view at the end is.
The trail is well maintained and marked.
No facilities. Roadside parking."
Catelin Robinson
"Hiked on March 18, 2023. Conditions mostly dry, with a small muddy area right before observation deck. Hardly any mosquitoes. Easy hike, excellent for young kids or folks with slight mobility issues as it’s flat and mostly root free. Would be great for early morning trail running. Excellent for birding! The observation platform at the end makes the walk well worth it. My recommendation is go right at sunrise to have it to yourself as crowds build here quickly in peak season. There’s a vlog on my experience on my channel on YouTube."
Kristina Varnum (Hammocks to Coasters)
"Dated 10/10/2024
Completely underwater from Hurricane Milton’s storm surge to Flamingo, estimated about 1ft under water today. Look at the dated photo
Trail review when not flooded:
Easy trail that is 1.6 miles one way to a boardwalk that gets you to overlook Snake Bight. It is not regularly maintained these days but it’s still easy to follow, the second half is more overgrown than the first half. Might be challenging for bikes to get through the tall grass and bushes in the second half.
If you want to make this a loop with Rowdy Bend, the trail junction is almost nonexistent, I was only able to find it with a GPS.
Be prepared for mosquitos, I encountered them the entire way."
Kensie Stallings
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Snake Bight Trail is located about 30 miles down Main Park Road from Long Pine Key in Everglades National Park. Roadside parking is available.
Yes, you can drive to the trailhead. Parking is available along the roadside.
Driving is the primary way to reach the trailhead. Ensure you have your park entrance pass.
Currently, there are no shuttle services specifically for the Snake Bight Trail. Driving is the recommended method of access.
From the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center, drive south on Main Park Road for approximately 30 miles. The trailhead will be on your right.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, you will need an entrance pass to Everglades National Park to access the Snake Bight Trail.
The trail is generally open during park hours, but it's always best to check the official Everglades National Park website for any specific closures or alerts.
No, there is no separate fee for the Snake Bight Trail itself. The standard Everglades National Park entrance fee applies.
Park entrance passes can be purchased online in advance or at the park entrance stations. The trail does not require separate booking.
The trail may be subject to temporary closures due to weather conditions, such as flooding. Always check for alerts before your visit.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The Snake Bight Trail is approximately 1.6 miles one way, making it a 3.2-mile out-and-back hike.
The trail is known for being overgrown and can be muddy, especially after rain. The second half is more challenging with tall grass and bushes.
While some have biked it, the overgrown conditions, especially in the second half, can make it challenging for bicycles.
You can spot various birds, snakes, spiders, and horseshoe crabs, particularly at the bay. 
No, there are no facilities at the Snake Bight Trailhead. Be prepared to bring your own water and snacks.
🎫 🦟 Bugs & Conditions
Yes, mosquitoes are a significant concern on this trail. It's highly recommended to use strong insect repellent.
While bugs are present year-round, conditions can vary. Early morning or cooler, drier periods might offer some relief, but repellent is always advised.
Yes, the trail can be completely underwater, especially after hurricanes or significant rainfall. Always check recent conditions.
The trail is intentionally not regularly maintained to protect endangered plant species, leading to its overgrown state.
Wear long pants and closed-toe shoes, preferably waterproof, due to the overgrown vegetation and potential mud.
📸 📸 Photography
The observation deck at the bay offers great views for bird photography and spotting marine life. The overgrown trail itself provides unique nature shots.
Absolutely! The trail and the bay are excellent spots for capturing images of birds, reptiles, and other native Everglades wildlife.
Sunrise offers beautiful light and fewer crowds, ideal for photography. The golden hour before sunset can also be stunning.
Drone usage is restricted in national parks. Please check the specific regulations for Everglades National Park before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens for the trail and a telephoto lens for wildlife photography would be beneficial. A waterproof camera or protective casing is also wise.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The observation deck at the end offers a rewarding destination with opportunities to spot wildlife, which can be exciting for kids. Arriving early can help avoid the worst of the crowds and potentially the most intense bug activity. Consider it an adventure where the journey through the wild is as much a part of the experience as the destination.
🚶♀️ Hikers Seeking a Challenge
For those who enjoy a bit of an adventure and don't mind getting a little dirty, this trail provides a sense of accomplishment. The reward at the end – the bay view and wildlife spotting – makes the effort worthwhile. It's a great option for hikers who want to experience a less manicured side of the Everglades.
🐦 Birdwatchers & Nature Photographers
Bring your binoculars and telephoto lenses to capture stunning shots of the local fauna. The overgrown trail itself provides a unique backdrop for photography, showcasing the wild beauty of the Everglades. Visiting during sunrise offers optimal lighting conditions and a chance to see wildlife at its most active, with fewer crowds to contend with.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Overgrown Path
Preparation is key for this trail. Bug spray is an absolute must, as mosquitoes and other biting insects are prevalent year-round. Wearing long pants and sturdy, closed-toe shoes, preferably waterproof, will protect you from scratches and mud. Some reviewers suggest that while biking is possible, the overgrown sections can make it difficult.
Despite the challenges, the trail offers a chance to see undisturbed wildlife. The observation deck at the end provides a fantastic vantage point for birdwatching and observing the bay's ecosystem. It's a true adventure for those willing to embrace the wild side of the Everglades.
+1Wildlife Wonders at Snake Bight
Beyond the birds, the trail and its destination at the bay are known for other inhabitants. You might spot snakes slithering through the undergrowth or spiders weaving their intricate webs. At the end of the trail, the bay area is a prime location for observing horseshoe crabs, especially during mating season.
To maximize your wildlife viewing opportunities, consider visiting during the early morning hours, particularly around sunrise. This is often when animals are most active, and you'll have a better chance of seeing them undisturbed by human activity. Remember to maintain a respectful distance and avoid feeding any wildlife.
When the Trail Becomes a River
This means it's crucial to check recent trail conditions before planning your visit. Online forums and park ranger updates are valuable resources for determining if the trail is accessible or underwater. If the trail is flooded, it can offer a different, albeit challenging, experience, with some visitors noting it was about a foot underwater.
Even when not flooded, the trail can be muddy, particularly in certain sections right before the observation deck. Wearing appropriate footwear, like waterproof boots, is highly recommended to navigate these conditions comfortably.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit