Mahogany Hammock Trail
Wander a shaded boardwalk through a dense jungle to discover the largest mahogany tree in the US.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Escape heat & crowds
Mahogany Hammock Trail
Best Time
Escape heat & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Wander a shaded boardwalk through a dense jungle to discover the largest mahogany tree in the US.
"Felt very jungly. Glad we stopped."
🎯 Bring Bug Spray!
Essential for comfort, especially after rain. Flies can be biting.
👟 Easy Boardwalk Stroll
Perfect for all fitness levels, strollers, and those seeking shade.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Giant Mahogany Tree
Center of the trail
Stand in awe of the largest mahogany tree in the United States, a truly majestic sight.
Jungle Boardwalk Experience
Entire trail
Wander through a dense, tropical jungle on a shaded boardwalk, feeling immersed in nature.
Wildlife Spotting
Along the trail
Keep an eye out for native birds like red-shouldered hawks and owls in their natural habitat.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Bugs
Accessibility and Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Bring Bug Spray!
Essential for comfort, especially after rain. Flies can be biting.
👟 Easy Boardwalk Stroll
Perfect for all fitness levels, strollers, and those seeking shade.
📸 Capture the Giant Tree
The massive mahogany is the star; be patient for photos.
🦉 Look for Wildlife
Binoculars can enhance spotting birds and other creatures.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Bring Bug Spray!
Essential for comfort, especially after rain. Flies can be biting.
👟 Easy Boardwalk Stroll
Perfect for all fitness levels, strollers, and those seeking shade.
📸 Capture the Giant Tree
The massive mahogany is the star; be patient for photos.
🦉 Look for Wildlife
Binoculars can enhance spotting birds and other creatures.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Even with shade, South Florida can be humid. Bring water.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Mahogany Hammock Trail for its immersive jungle feel and accessible boardwalk, making it a great stop for all. While some note it can get crowded around the main tree, the shaded path and unique flora are consistently highlighted as enjoyable aspects. It's a refreshing, easy walk that offers a taste of the Everglades' lush interior.
"Nice easy loop on a boardwalk. Felt very jungly. Glad we stopped."
Jacob Kizer
"A good walking boardwalk to get some exercise. It was not too busy so you can ealk a good pace. Some of the flies were biting, so be aware and bring bug spray."
Denise K
"Really great trail! Lots of beautiful tropical plants along the extent of this elevated boardwalk trail. Was great, as given recent rain, other trails were very muddy. Nice and shaded for when it’s hot. Short and great for kids. Very nice little trail."
Roberto Rojas
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mahogany Hammock Trail is located within Everglades National Park. Access is typically via the main park road. If coming from Miami, it's about an hour's drive south. Parking is available at the trailhead. +1
Yes, the trail is well-signed within Everglades National Park. Look for the Mahogany Hammock Trailhead.
From Miami, take FL-997 S/SW 187th Ave to FL-9336 S/E Palm Dr. Continue on FL-9336 S to Everglades National Park. Follow signs for Mahogany Hammock Trail.
Public transportation options to Everglades National Park are very limited. It is highly recommended to have your own vehicle for easy access.
Yes, there is a dedicated parking area at the Mahogany Hammock Trailhead. It can get busy during peak times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Mahogany Hammock Trail is located within Everglades National Park, which requires an entrance fee per vehicle. Check the official NPS website for current fees and operating hours.
The trail is generally open during daylight hours, aligning with Everglades National Park's operating hours. It's best to check the NPS website for the most up-to-date information.
Entrance fees are typically paid at the park entrance station. It's advisable to have cash or a credit card ready.
No, the entrance fee for Everglades National Park covers access to all trails within the park, including Mahogany Hammock Trail.
Everglades National Park offers various passes, including annual passes and passes for seniors and military. Check the NPS website for eligibility.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Mahogany Hammock Trail is a short, approximately 0.5-mile (0.8 km) loop. It's a quick but rewarding walk.
The trail is entirely on an elevated boardwalk, making it flat and easy to navigate. It winds through dense, humid jungle terrain.
Absolutely! The short, flat boardwalk is perfect for children. They'll enjoy the jungle atmosphere and spotting wildlife.
You might spot various birds, including red-shouldered hawks and owls, as well as other small creatures.
Yes, the dense canopy of trees provides significant shade, making it a pleasant walk even on warm days.
📸 📸 Photography
The massive mahogany tree is a prime subject. The lush, dense jungle foliage and potential wildlife sightings also make for great shots.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for photography. Golden hour can be magical here.
For personal photography, no special permit is usually required. However, commercial photography or videography may need permits. Check with NPS.
Given the shade, you might need a higher ISO or wider aperture. Consider a polarizing filter to manage glare on the boardwalk.
Drones are generally prohibited in national parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check NPS regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage your children to look for interesting plants, listen for bird calls, and try to spot any small creatures. The giant mahogany tree is a definite highlight that will impress them. Remember to bring bug spray and plenty of water to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for everyone.
🚶♀️ Accessible Adventurers
You can comfortably immerse yourself in the lush jungle environment without the challenges of uneven terrain. The shaded path offers a respite from the Florida sun, and the unique flora provides a visually engaging experience. It’s a perfect way to connect with nature in the Everglades National Park without strenuous effort.
📸 Nature Photographers
+1To capture the best shots, consider visiting during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for softer light and fewer crowds. Be prepared for lower light conditions due to the dense canopy, and a tripod or a camera with good low-light performance can be beneficial. Experiment with different angles to showcase the scale of the trees and the vibrant greens of the jungle.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majestic Mahogany Tree
+1This tree is not just a visual spectacle; it's a vital part of the hammock ecosystem. Its presence supports a unique microclimate, contributing to the dense, humid jungle environment that defines the trail. Be prepared for crowds to gather around this magnificent tree, as it's a popular spot for photos and admiration.
Navigating the Boardwalk
Walking the boardwalk feels like stepping into another world. The dense canopy overhead creates a cool, shaded environment, a stark contrast to the open, sunny landscapes often associated with South Florida. The sounds of the jungle surround you, and the lush vegetation presses in, creating an immersive natural experience. It’s a relatively short loop, making it perfect for a quick nature fix or as part of a larger Everglades exploration.
Wildlife Encounters
+1Some visitors have even reported spotting owls perched in the trees, adding a touch of magic to their hike. Remember to observe wildlife from a distance and avoid disturbing their natural habitat. Bringing binoculars can significantly enhance your chances of spotting elusive creatures. The humid, dense environment provides a perfect home for a variety of insects and small animals as well.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit