Shark Valley

The Basics

Visitors start their explorations at the Shark Valley Visitor Center to learn more about local ecology. A 15-mile (24-kilometer) paved loop circles through the area and is open to cyclists and pedestrians. One of the most popular ways to explore the area (and cover more ground than you could on foot) is via a guided tram tour. During this 2-hour excursion, visitors can spot wildlife while learning about the wetlands from an onboard naturalist guide.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Shark Valley is a must-visit for families and wildlife enthusiasts.

• Shark Valley tram tours are not included with national park entrance.

• Restrooms are available at the Shark Valley Visitor Center.

• The visitor’s center and one of the two walking trails is wheelchair accessible.

How to Get There

Because there is no public transportation to Shark Valley, the best way to get there is to join a guided tour with round-trip transportation, or to drive yourself. The visitor’s center is located along Highway 41, 25 miles (40 kilometers) west of the Florida Turnpike.

When to Get There

The Shark Valley entrance to Everglades National Park is open daily from 8:30am to 6pm, even though the park itself is open 24 hours a day. The best time to spot wildlife is during the dry season (November to March); this is also when visitors will find the biggest variety of ranger-led programming.

What’s in the Name?

Shark Valley may seem like an odd name for an area of wetlands best known for alligators. This area of the park, added in 1989, is actually named after the Shark River Slough: the very river of grass that makes the Everglades so famous. The water of the Shark River comes primarily from Lake Okeechobee, and since there’s water in the area even in the dry season, animals tend to congregate here.

How long is the Shark Valley tram tour?

Most tram tours of Shark Valley last around two hours and cover a distance of around 15 miles (24 kilometers). These tram tours offer a fun, family-friendly way to learn about the unique wetland from Shark Valley naturalist guides and see nature up close as you pass through.

Can you drive to Shark Valley Observation Tower?

No, visitors can only reach the Shark Valley Observation Tower by taking a tram tour, or by bike or foot. Visitors on the tram tour stop at the tower to soak up sweeping views over the Everglades National Park—views that would lose appeal if marred by parking lots.

Why is it called Shark Valley?

The name comes from the Shark River Slough, aka the River of Grass, that flows through Everglades National Park. The water of this river is fed mainly from Lake Okeechobee, where bull sharks have reportedly been seen, although it’s still unclear if this led to the river’s name.

What is the best time to visit the Everglades?

To escape the worst of the mosquitos, storms, and heat, the best time to visit Everglades National Park is in the dry season—roughly from early December through April. This is the most popular time for visitors, so book ahead for boat and tram tours.

Can I see alligators at Shark Valley?

Alligators abound in Shark Valley in the Everglades, and you’re likely to see them along with other wildlife like marsh birds and turtles. Head to the park as soon as the doors open, and go anywhere with water for a good chance of seeing these beasts in their natural habitat.

Is Shark Valley part of Everglades National Park?

Yes, Shark Valley makes up a major part of Everglades National Park, along with other must-see areas such as Flamingo, Long Pine Key, and the Gulf Coast. For many visitors though, Shark Valley is a park highlight and is a top place for wetland wildlife like alligators.

Ways to explore

Start exploring Shark Valley at its visitor center to learn more about local ecology and wildlife. Many visitors then set out on the 15-mile (24-kilometer) paved loop that circles through the area and is open to cyclists and pedestrians; rent a bike to see Shark Valley at your own pace. Alternatively, one of the most popular ways to explore is via a 2-hour guided tram tour with an onboard naturalist guide. Visitors often combine an excursion through Shark Valley with an airboat tour in the Everglades, located about 20 minutes away from the visitor center.

Accessibility

The visitor center and one of the two walking trails are wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

None, though helmets are required for children under 16 who want to cycle

What to pack

Plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellant

What to wear

Light, breathable clothing; hat; sunglasses

Not allowed

Pets, roller blades, skateboards, fishing

Amenities

Visitor center with restrooms, gift shop, educational displays, observation tower

Address 

The Shark Valley Visitor Center is located along Highway 41, about 25 miles (40 kilometers) west of the Florida Turnpike. Most visitors will arrive by driving or via a guided tour with round-trip transportation provided; there is no public transportation to Shark Valley.

Driving

For the easiest parking experience, plan to arrive before 10am or after 3pm. Once the parking lot at Shark Valley is full, a one-out, one-in policy is in place, which means that parking can take significant time.

Public transportation

While public transportation is not available, group tours that allow participants to watch scenery rather than drive are available.

Best times to visit

Shark Valley is open daily from 8:30am to 6pm To park quickly and easily, arrive first thing in the morning or after 3pm. Early morning and late afternoon also typically coincide with more activity from animals, either before or after the heat of the day.

Best days to visit

If possible, choose a weekday over a Saturday or Sunday. Some visitors may want to align their trip with ranger-led programming; check the online calendar.

Best months to visit

The dry season, from November through March, is the best time to spot wildlife at Shark Valley. Temperatures are also milder at this time of year.

Special events

While there are no festivals at Shark Valley, there are ranger-led special events such as themed walks, full moon bike rides, night sky events, and more. Check the official calendar to see what’s on.