If not for the park-maintained boardwalk, the dense thickets would be impenetrable. Ironically, I encounter the greatest concentration of wildlife at Echo Pond, located only a short walking distance from the lodge. A chorus of bird songs rises from the pond's small island. Snowy egrets bob on branches while white ibis cluster in marsh grass and American coots skim over the water. Sensing a red-shouldered hawk peering down from its lofty perch, brown marsh rabbits hop to cover.
Walkers scurry past an alligator dozing alongside the dirt path.
The main entrance of Everglades National Park is located 16 km southwest of Homestead, Fla., on State Rte. 9336. Camping is free the rest of the year. An alligator relaxes at the edge of the water. The Flamingo Lodge restaurant offers breakfast, lunch and dinner November to April and limited food service for lunch and dinner May to October. The marina sells food and supplies.