Have you ever explored Florida’s USA Alligator Alley? Actually, you can capture some great alligator and wildlife photography on Florida I-75 and Route 41. Honestly, you will be thrilled with what these 2 wildlife routes have to offer. Nancy and I started on Route 75 south and when we arrived in Naples, we took the Tamiami Trail, which is route 41 from west to east.
In the 2021 Winter, Nancy and I took a road trip to see what alligator alley had to offer. We were thrilled to see some amazing wildlife, including alligators. Our first stop was Collier-Seminole State Park.
Collier-Seminole State Park
Collier Seminole State Park is known for The Bay City Walking Dredge. Here, you will find the large black colored machine sitting impressively next to the tropical forest quietly. This Bay City Walking Dredge will never be operated again, but its presence speaks volumes about the Florida pioneers ingenuity to operate it. You will certainly be impressed.
This walking dredge officially became a registered national historic site in May 2013. With grants and park support, the park has been able to perform needed repairs on the famous dredge. For more information, visit the park’s website @ http://www.floridastateparks.org. You can also reach this Florida State Park @ 239-394-3397.
Informative Nature Hiking and Florida Wildlife
So what else did we see at Collier-Seminole State Park? Here, you will find many different wooden posts and placards that described the Florida nature. You will find mangrove swamp, cypress swamps, pine flatwoods, salt marshes, and mangrove river estuaries. This park has over 6,000 acres of land awaiting exploration by you.
How about wildlife? This park offers American alligators, raccoons, ospreys, American white ibus, brown pelicans, wood storks, bald eagles, red woodpeckers, American crocodiles, Florida black bears, and big cypress fox squirrels. As you can see the Collier-Seminole State Park has plenty for you to see. Here, you will find a 13.6 canoe trail, a 6.5 hiking trail, and .9 mile nature trail, which Nancy and I hiked.
Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge
Our next stop was the the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge. If you are a wildlife refuge enthusiast, this refuge is a must see. “The Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge is located in Southwest Florida in Collier County, between Marco Island and Everglades City, Florida. The refuge was first established in 1996 and covers 35,000 acres of the Ten Thousand Islands.” -Wikipedia.
Here, you will find an abundance of wildlife. You will also find more than 200 bird species and fish species. If you are up for a hiking experience, here there is a 2.2 mile Marsh Trail and climbing a two-story observation tower, which gives a beautiful viewing of the marsh. You will also find an access point for four canoe trails.
Big Cypress National Preserve
You may also want to explore the Big Cypress National Preserve. You will find this national preserve in Ochopee, Florida on Route 41. Here, you will explore and see mangroves, alligators, and panthers. There are over 729,000 acres of swamp awaiting exploration.
Are you a camping enthusiast? Here, you will find 8 campgrounds awaiting, you can find your perfect campsite. Plan ahead, for more information on Big Cypress National Preserve call (239)695-2000.
Alligator Alley
While you are driving on Route 41, be sure to keep your eyes open for peoples reactions. Nancy and I noticed some fishermen on the side of the road and stopped. Here, we observed 6 alligators, a perfect place to take some alligator photography. You too will be able to enjoy some alligator viewing.
Alligator Alley I-75 and Alligator Safety
Here, you will find many alligators along the sides of the road. Nancy and I saw many alligators sunbathing along the coastline. You too will be amazed of the American alligator beauty.
In closing, when you visit any park, remember you are a wild habitat guest. Be sure to treat all wildlife with respect. Feeding, injuring, harassing, and removing wildlife, including alligators is against the law. Do the right thing always and be sure you keep at least 30 feet between you and the alligator always. Remember, this is for your safety while you explore Florida USA alligator alley.
For more information on Florida USA alligator alley, click this YouTube video: https://youtu.be/-7JMz_-25fs
Happy Travels!
