East Everglades Levee - Mountain Bike Trail

The East Everglades Levee Trail is one of the most popular biking trails in Miami, Florida. What sets this trail apart is its remote location and the stunning wildlife you’ll see on your travels. The trail is also relatively flat, making it accessible to people of all ages and abilities. This trail is located in an area that is rich in history and culture, with nearby attractions such as the Miccosukee Indian Village and the Everglades Safari Park.

Before you go:

Drinking water

Restrooms

Fee required

Lift service

Fat bike grooming

Family Friendly

Night riding

E-bikes allowed

Dogs Allowed

Obstacles

Shuttles

Detailed Trail Description

The East Everglades Levee Trail is a singletrack mountain bike dirt trail located in Southwest Ranches. There are several access points, such as:

• Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge;
• Atlantic Blvd at Sawgrass Expressway;
• Everglades Recreation Park;
• Markham Park;
• Everglades Holiday Park.

To get to this trailhead easily, consider heading to the Everglades Holiday Park entrance.

Although the trail is relatively flat, there are some drops and rocky areas suitable for more technical riders. You can ride this loop in segments or as a 68-mile loop. You’ll notice many bypasses all around you but get a map to assist you as many of the side Levee don’t cross the canal.

Additional Trail Features

The trailhead starts at the Florida Everglades Holiday Park's far western end and ends at the southeast of the park. The trail is accessible all year and the entrance fee may differ depending on which access point you go through. For reference, going through the Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge will cost you $10 per vehicle.

Sights of Interest, Landscapes, Views

When you ride the levee trail, you can see a variety of landscapes. You can enjoy the stunning views of wetlands and lush fields. It will be possible for you to see wildlife in its natural setting as well, such as deer, rabbits, birds, alligators, turtles, and even otters.

The view changes along the different segments of the trail. In some areas you can expect straight paths with flat terrain while others will provide more challenging courses where hills can be found. There are other exciting activities surrounding the trail that you can take part in such as:

• Fishing;
• Kayaking;
• Air boating;
• Picnics;
• Camping.

It's a great opportunity to appreciate the beauty of nature surrounding the canal.

Recommendations/Precautions

If you want a comfortable bike ride, the best time to tackle this trail would be during December when temperatures reach 70°F to 80°F. You can ride the trail during summer, but you may experience high temperatures of 90°F and rain. There is no tree coverage in the area so be sure to wear hats and apply sunscreen before you go out.

Here is an additional list of recommendations and precautions:

• Put on a helmet and the necessary safety equipment.
• Pack lots of snacks and drinks, as there are limited rest stops along the trail.
• Be aware of wildlife in the area and give them plenty of space, especially alligators and snakes.
• Remain on established pathways and avoid venturing off into the surrounding wilderness.
• Be mindful of your surroundings and keep an eye out for any potential hazards, such as fallen branches or uneven terrain.
• Carry a map, GPS device, or smartphone with a trail map app to help navigate the trail.

Overall, the Miami East Everglades Levee Trail is well-maintained and patrolled by park rangers, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.