Main Park Road (Part 2)

The Main Park Road in Everglades National Park is the continuation of FL-9336 within the park boundaries. This is part two, starting at Nine Mile Pond and continuing to the end of the road at Flamingo Campground. For the first part, from the park entrance to Nine Mile Pond, see Main Park Road Part 1.

Mile 28.6 – Canoe Trail Accesses

The Noble Hammock canoe access is on the left. Just 0.4 mile further a small pulloff on the right provides parking for the Hells Bay canoe access.

Mile 31.1 – West Lake

A short side road to the left quickly leads to the West Lake parking area. This large lake actually has a small boat ramp and dock area available, as well as restrooms and a viewing area. There is also a short boardwalk trail that leads through the mangroves out into the lake.

Mile 32.8 – Snake Bight Trailhead

The road passes by parking for the Snake Bight Trail, on both sides of the road. The trail itself is on the left side. This is a 1.6 mile hike, one-way, and despite the amusing name, has no more chance of a snake bite than anywhere else in the park.

Mile 34.4 – Mrazek Pond

Yet another pond is on the left, this time Mrazek Pond. In the dry season birdwatchers are likely to be at the water’s edge.

Mile 34.8 – Coot Bay Pond

Coot Bay Pond is on the right. This is a beautiful small pond. A few picnic tables are near the shoreline.

Mile 35.4 – Rowdy Bend Trailhead

The Rowdy Bend Trail is on the left. 1.9 miles further is the Christian Point Trail, again on the left side of the road.

Mile 37.6 – Bear Lake Road

The unpaved road to Bear Lake is on the right. Due to low clearances, do not attempt this road with an RV or any other tall vehicle. Note that in 8 separate visits dating back to 2006, we have never seen the gate to this road open, but apparently it sometimes is.

Mile 38.1 – Flamingo Visitor Center

The Flamingo area is entered and the facilities begin on the left side. The marina store and boat dock are first, followed by the Flamingo Visitor Center, on the left. Florida Bay lies beyond the visitor center.

Mile 38.7 – Coastal Prairie

A small pulloff on the right provides access to a display on the coastal prairie. A scenic view is straight ahead, as seen to the left.

Mile 38.9 – Eco Pond

A small parking area on the right gives access to Eco Pond and the loop trail around it. This scenic area is an excellent area for spotting wildlife.

Mile 39.1 – Flamingo Campground

The road ends as it enters the Flamingo Campground. For more information on the campground, see Everglades Camping.