Big Cypress National Preserve: an overlooked Miami trip not to miss

Wildlife and wild woods, this is a different side of South Florida.

A completely different experience from doing a trip into the Florida Keys, Big Cypress is nothing but nature. It's breathtaking around every corner.

Wildlife in Big Cypress Preserve is unmatched.

Although a part of the Everglades, it's easier to see alligators and amazing birds in Big Cypress than its neighboring National Park.

Plan to visit Big Cypress National Preserve in spring for active baby alligators and lower water levels. Perfect wildlife watching!

A perfect Miami day trip with kids or adults, Big Cypress NPS is less than an hour from the city. Stop into one of the visitor centers to learn about the wildlife and ecosystem.

If you're into birdwatching, this is THE National Park to visit.

Egrets, herons, hawks and more are plentiful at in Big Cypress National Preserve.

And yes! There is actually hiking in Big Cypress.

True, it's Florida style hiking, so you're not climbing in elevation, but you can get DEEP into nature.

Some of the most unique National Park trails are here in Big Cypress National Preserve. They are other-worldly.

Truly a gem of National Park sites, Big Cypress is non-stop with fascinating views and wildlife around every turn.

PS: there are moments when you are hiking or driving through Big Cypress National Preserve that you feel like you're on a different planet.

Get all the details to plan a trip to Big Cypress, including when hiking trails are best and wildlife to watch for.