Named for two estuaries, Shark River and Little Shark River, Shark Valley is in the heart of Everglades National Park and about an hour's drive west of Downtown Miami along Tamiami Trail. Here, visitors may see wildlife like alligators, herons, egrets, Key deer, turtles and snail kites. It’s also a great place to hike and enjoy the outdoors. Those who want to explore Shark Valley can start by visiting the Shark Valley Visitor Center.

Visitor Center Amenities and Services

The Shark Valley Visitor Center introduces visitors to a world of outdoor adventure.

Shark Valley Tram Tours, Inc. is headquartered in the center of Shark Valley and offers two-hour guided tram tours, group tours and self-guided bike tours daily. Tram tours are led by Shark Valley naturalists and are open-air, giving passengers a close look at the diverse wildlife in Shark Valley’s sawgrass prairies. Tours and bike rentals can be reserved on a first come, first served basis by contacting the Shark Valley Visitor Center. Group tours must be arranged in advance by calling (305) 221-8455.

Near the visitor center, visitors can hop on three trails that are great for walking, hiking, biking, bird watching and wildlife viewing. Tram Road Trail is a flat, paved road that loops for 15 miles and is used for Shark Valley Tram Tours. This trail leads to the Shark Valley Observation Tower viewing platform, the highest accessible point in all of Everglades National Park. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the Everglades for miles. The Bobcat Boardwalk Trail breaks off from here, winding through sawgrass sloughs and tropical hardwood forests. Otter Cave Hammock Trail is a rough limestone path that goes over small streams and through a tropical hardwood forest.

There are two educational exhibits about the local ecosystem as well as a short film about Shark Valley on the loop. The visitor center has a gift store where visitors can buy books, postcards and other souvenirs. There is no restaurant, but there are vending machines and packaged snacks and drinks are available for sale. The Shark Valley Visitor Center is the only air-conditioned building in Shark Valley and the only place where visitors can find food or a restroom.

General Information

Check with the visitor center ahead of time for hours and amenities. Seasonal flooding can cause the center to close. There is no public transportation to and from Shark Valley.