Discover the Wonders of Big Cypress National Preserve - Loop Unit
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Big Cypress National Preserve's Loop Unit, a wildlife sanctuary in Florida offering stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Big Cypress National Preserve's Loop Unit, a wildlife haven in Florida. Perfect for nature lovers, it offers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.
A brief summary to Big Cypress National Preserve - Loop Unit
- Jerome, Florida, 34141, US
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as amenities in the preserve are limited.
- Wear sturdy shoes and insect repellent, as trails can be muddy and mosquitoes are prevalent.
- Check for guided tour schedules to enhance your understanding of the local ecosystems.
- Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance, especially when observing alligators.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car within Big Cypress National Preserve, start from the main visitor center, which is located at 33100 Tamiami Trail East, Ochopee, FL 34141. Head east on US-41/Tamiami Trail for approximately 12 miles. Look for the entrance to Loop Road on your right. Turn onto Loop Road and continue for about 5 miles until you reach the designated parking area for the Loop Unit. There are no entrance fees for the Loop Unit, but ensure your vehicle has enough fuel as services are limited in the Preserve.
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Public Transportation
Public transportation options are extremely limited in this area. The nearest bus stop is located in Everglades City, approximately 30 miles from the Loop Unit. From there, you would need to arrange for a taxi or rideshare service to reach the Loop Unit. Be prepared for a wait, as ride services may take time to arrive due to the remote location.
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Bicycle
For those adventurous enough to cycle, you can access Loop Road from the main visitor center. The distance is roughly 17 miles round trip, which can be a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of the preserve. Ensure to bring plenty of water and snacks for your journey, and be aware of wildlife on the road. There are no bike rental services on-site, so you must bring your own bicycle.
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Walking
Walking to the Loop Unit is not practical due to the distances involved and the lack of designated pedestrian paths. However, if you are staying at one of the nearby campgrounds, you could explore the surrounding areas on foot once you arrive. Make sure to plan your route carefully and be aware of your surroundings, as wildlife can be present.
Discover more about Big Cypress National Preserve - Loop Unit
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Explore Big Cypress Tours and Lodging
6.5 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and rich wildlife of Big Cypress National Preserve with guided tours and lodging options for nature lovers and photographers.
ValuJet Flight 592 Memorial
31.8 km
Explore the ValuJet Flight 592 Memorial in Miami to reflect on resilience and remember the lives lost in aviation history.
Big Cypress National Preserve Headquarters
35.3 km
Discover the rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes at Big Cypress National Preserve Headquarters, a gateway to Florida's unique natural wonders.
Bank of Everglades Building
40.5 km
Discover the Bank of Everglades in Ochopee, Florida - a historical landmark that embodies the rich history and culture of the Everglades region.
Everglades
43.7 km
Discover the Everglades, Florida's stunning wetland paradise, rich in wildlife and natural beauty, ideal for eco-adventures and unforgettable experiences.
Tamiami Trail
48.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Tamiami Trail, a scenic highway showcasing Florida's unique landscapes and vibrant wildlife.
Big Cypress Indian Reservation
57.4 km
Discover the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Big Cypress Indian Reservation, a serene campground in Florida's scenic Everglades region.
Fruit & Spice Park
57.7 km
Explore the lush landscapes of Fruit & Spice Park in Homestead, Florida, where tropical fruits and culinary delights await your discovery.
Old Ingraham
57.7 km
Experience nature's tranquility at Old Ingraham Campground in Homestead, Florida, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Everglades National Park
58.1 km
Explore Everglades National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing Florida's unique ecosystems and diverse wildlife in a breathtaking subtropical wilderness.
Bear Island Big Cypress national preserve
58.4 km
Discover Bear Island in Big Cypress National Preserve - a paradise of wildlife, lush landscapes, and outdoor adventure in the heart of Florida.
Historic Walton House
59.7 km
Explore the Historic Walton House, a picturesque wedding venue in Homestead, Florida, offering stunning gardens and rich historical charm for every visitor.
Royal Palm Visitor Center
60.1 km
Explore the Royal Palm Visitor Center, your gateway to the Everglades' unique ecosystems and wildlife encounters in the heart of Florida.
Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center
60.8 km
Explore the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center, your gateway to the breathtaking Everglades National Park, where nature and adventure await.
Everglades National Park Institute
60.9 km
Explore the Everglades National Park Institute for an immersive experience into Florida's unique ecosystems and conservation efforts.
Unmissable attractions to see
Florida Trail - Southern Terminus
7.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Florida's diverse ecosystems at the Southern Terminus of the Florida Trail in Ochopee, a hiker's paradise.
Big Cypress Oasis Visitor Center
7.6 km
Discover the beauty and biodiversity of Big Cypress National Preserve at the Big Cypress Oasis Visitor Center, your gateway to adventure.
Mitchell Landing Big Cypress National Preserve
7.8 km
Discover the natural beauty and serenity of Mitchell Landing in Big Cypress National Preserve, a perfect spot for camping and wildlife watching.
Loop Road Scenic Drive
10.0 km
Explore the captivating Loop Road Scenic Drive in Big Cypress National Preserve, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Big Cypress Wildlife Management Area - Stairsteps Unit
10.0 km
Experience the wild beauty of Big Cypress Wildlife Management Area, home to diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife in Florida.
Gator Hook Trail
11.8 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Gator Hook Trail in the heart of Big Cypress National Preserve, Florida.
Tippy's Outpost
17.4 km
Discover the charm of Tippy's Outpost, a scenic spot in Ochopee, Florida, blending adventure and local culture in a unique setting.
Kirby Storter Roadside Park
18.3 km
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Kirby Storter Roadside Park, a serene escape along the Tamiami Trail in Florida's Big Cypress National Preserve.
Miccosukee Indian Village
21.7 km
Discover the captivating culture of the Miccosukee Tribe at Miccosukee Indian Village, a unique tourist attraction in Miami that offers an immersive Native American experience.
Shark Valley Visitor Center
22.7 km
Discover the wonders of the Everglades at Shark Valley Visitor Center, where nature and adventure come together in Miami's stunning wetlands.
Shark Valley Tram Tours
22.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Everglades with Shark Valley Tram Tours – a perfect blend of adventure and nature awaits you.
Otter Cave Hammock Trail
22.8 km
Explore the serene Otter Cave Hammock Trail in Miami, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts seeking tranquility amidst lush landscapes.
Shark Valley Observation Tower
27.4 km
Experience the breathtaking vistas and diverse wildlife at Shark Valley Observation Tower, a must-visit in Florida's Everglades National Park.
Big Cypress Wildlife Management Area - Turner River Unit
28.6 km
Experience the rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes of Big Cypress Wildlife Management Area - Turner River Unit, a treasure of Florida's natural heritage.
Big Cypress National Preserve
28.7 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Big Cypress National Preserve, a true gem in Florida's natural heritage.
Essential places to dine
Nature Trail Tree Snail
7.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of Big Cypress National Preserve at Nature Trail Tree Snail—an unforgettable hiking experience in Florida's wild heart.
Joanie's Blue Crab Cafe
32.8 km
Discover the best blue crab dishes at Joanie's Blue Crab Cafe in Ochopee, Florida – where fresh flavors meet southern hospitality.
HavAnnA Cafe
37.4 km
Experience authentic Cuban cuisine at HavAnnA Cafe in Chokoloskee - where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.
The Diving Pelican Restaurant & Bar
40.1 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at The Diving Pelican Restaurant & Bar in Everglades City - where nature meets flavor!
Island Cafe
40.2 km
Discover the charm of Island Cafe in Everglades City – where every breakfast is an adventure waiting to unfold!
Captain Morgan's Seafood Grill Corp
40.4 km
Experience fresh seafood with cultural flair at Captain Morgan's Seafood Grill in Everglades City—where every meal tells a story.
City Seafood
40.5 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at City Seafood in Everglades City – where local flavors meet a laid-back atmosphere.
Everglades Rod & Gun Club
40.6 km
Discover adventure and relaxation at Everglades Rod & Gun Club – your gateway to Florida's breathtaking wetlands.
Camellia Street Grill
40.6 km
Experience delicious seafood and grill specialties at Camellia Street Grill in Everglades City - a true taste of Florida!
Pink Jeep Campground
55.4 km
Experience nature at its finest at Pink Jeep Campground in Big Cypress National Preserve—an outdoor paradise for camping enthusiasts.
Big Cypress Landing
56.3 km
Explore Big Cypress Landing in Clewiston: A hub for local culture and unique shopping experiences amidst Florida's natural beauty.
Swamp Water Cafe
59.0 km
Experience authentic Southern flavors at Swamp Water Cafe in Clewiston, Florida – your ultimate dining destination for local cuisine.
Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge
59.7 km
Explore diverse ecosystems at Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge – a vital sanctuary for endangered species in Immokalee.
smokehouse191.com
61.9 km
Experience authentic smokehouse cuisine at Smokehouse 191 in Homestead – where flavor meets comfort in every bite.
Sweet Bakery Cafeteria
62.2 km
Discover authentic Cuban flavors at Sweet Bakery Cafeteria in Homestead, where delightful pastries and hearty breakfasts await.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Clyde Butcher Big Cypress Gallery
6.6 km
Discover the stunning beauty of the Everglades at Clyde Butcher Big Cypress Gallery, where art meets nature in captivating black and white photography.
Shark Valley Gift Shop
22.7 km
Explore the best of the Everglades with unique souvenirs and gifts at Shark Valley Gift Shop, a must-visit for every traveler.
Glades Haven General Store
40.1 km
Discover local flavors and essential supplies at Glades Haven General Store, the heart of Everglades City shopping.
Shell
50.8 km
Conveniently located in West Miami, the Shell station offers gas, snacks, and meals to fuel your adventures in the city.
Fakahatchee Strand
53.8 km
Explore Fakahatchee Strand, Florida's breathtaking wetland teeming with biodiversity, serene landscapes, and rare orchid species.
Escape N Vape Smoke Shop
54.0 km
Discover a premier destination for tobacco, cannabis, and vaping supplies in Miami at Escape N Vape Smoke Shop.
Walgreens
54.2 km
Experience the convenience of Walgreens in Miami: your go-to destination for health, beauty, and everyday essentials.
Grain of Sand by Aneth
54.3 km
Explore Grain of Sand by Aneth for exquisite handcrafted jewelry and fashion accessories in the heart of Miami, perfect for every occasion.
ALDI
54.4 km
Discover unbeatable prices on quality groceries at ALDI in Kendall, Florida - perfect for tourists looking to save.
MY PETS LOVE IT Fresh Natural & Organic Dog Treats in Miami
54.5 km
Discover fresh, organic dog treats at MY PETS LOVE IT, Miami's ultimate pet supply store for health-conscious dog owners.
GameStop
54.5 km
Explore Miami's GameStop for the latest games, collectibles, and a vibrant community of gaming enthusiasts in Kendall Plaza.
The Vitamin Shoppe
54.6 km
Explore Miami's The Vitamin Shoppe for an extensive range of vitamins, supplements, and natural health products in a budget-friendly setting.
Starbucks
54.7 km
Discover the perfect blend of comfort and flavor at Starbucks in Miami's West End, your go-to coffee destination.
Five Star Jewelers
54.8 km
Explore the exquisite collection at Five Star Jewelers in Miami, where luxury meets expert craftsmanship and exceptional service.
Walmart Supercenter
55.4 km
Experience the ultimate shopping destination at Walmart Supercenter in Kendall, offering everything from groceries to electronics at budget-friendly prices.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Everglades Conservation And Sportsman Club
12.8 km
Discover outdoor adventures and wildlife conservation at the Everglades Conservation And Sportsman Club, a haven for nature lovers in Ochopee, Florida.
The Hangout
37.5 km
Experience the flavors of Florida at The Hangout in Chokoloskee, where fresh seafood and local charm come together for an unforgettable meal.
Subway
39.8 km
Experience delicious, fresh sandwiches in the heart of Everglades City, perfect for tourists on the go.
Gator Hole Bar
40.1 km
Discover Gator Hole Bar in Everglades City, where local flavors and a lively atmosphere come together for an unforgettable experience.
Everglades Fishing Co
40.2 km
Experience the ultimate fishing adventure and savor delicious seafood at Everglades Fishing Co, your gateway to the Everglades.
Nely's Corner
40.2 km
Experience the flavors of Everglades City at Nely's Corner, where fresh ingredients meet local culinary traditions in a cozy atmosphere.
Wildman's pizza, pasta and pythons
40.3 km
Discover Wildman's Pizza, Pasta, and Pythons in Everglades City for a unique dining experience blending delicious cuisine and intriguing wildlife encounters.
Wildman's Pizza Pasta & Pythons
40.3 km
Discover Wildman's Pizza Pasta & Pythons in Everglades City, where delicious pizza meets exotic reptiles for a truly unique dining experience.
Miccosukee Casino & Resort
50.4 km
Discover the thrills of Miccosukee Casino & Resort in Miami, where gaming excitement meets luxurious relaxation and cultural heritage.
Tempt Lounge
50.4 km
Discover the allure of Tempt Lounge, where innovative cocktails and vibrant nightlife create the ultimate Miami experience.
Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux - Kendall Restaurant
54.8 km
Discover the ultimate sports dining experience at Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux in Kendall, Miami - where flavor meets excitement in a lively atmosphere.
Angler's Cove Restaurant and Bar
55.2 km
Experience flavorful American cuisine and fresh seafood at Angler's Cove Restaurant and Bar, Naples' hidden gem within the Port of the Islands Resort.
Mellow Grapes Miami
55.9 km
Discover the exquisite world of wines at Mellow Grapes Miami, where every sip tells a story in a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Strange Beast
56.0 km
Discover Strange Beast, a brewpub in Miami offering unique craft beers and delicious pizzas in a vibrant atmosphere.
KROME Sports Grill
56.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of KROME Sports Grill, where delicious cuisine meets Miami's lively nightlife in a welcoming bar setting.
