Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden and Everglades National Park have partnered to share the beauty of these two local natural resources that bring so much history and culture to our community. The institutions share educational and research missions focused on preserving natural resources and establishing education programs; and both encourage and promote the public use of and benefits from outdoor activities. Through Fairchild, our urban community can get a closer look into the Everglades. In this fall season Fairchild will offer tours that focus on the unique habitat of the Everglades. We are delighted to open your eyes to this amazing natural resource comprised of approximately 1.5 million acres of subtropical flora and fauna that is in our own backyard: Everglades National Park.  

BIRD PHOTOGRAPHY AT SUNSET IN EVERGLADES NATIONAL PARK
Pedro Lastra

Saturday, January 14 – please see Photography Section

SLOUGH SLOG IN EVERGLADES NATIONAL PARK
ENP Ranger-Led

One of the best ways to experience theEvergladeslandscape is to get wet! Explore your adventurous side and take this opportunity to enjoyEvergladesNational Parkwith an expert. Venture off-trail into the glades with a park ranger and visit the mysterious and beautiful world of a cypress dome or "gator hole" along the way. Walking in the slough is the best way to see and understand theRiverofGrass. This exciting tour will last 2 ½ hours, while actual walking time is about 60 minutes. The terrain is uneven and the water level may be knee deep. The interactive walk will provide you with excellent photo opportunities and is moderately strenuous. Wear old lace-up tennis shoes, socks, and long pants that can get wet or muddy. The tour includes the use of a slough slog (walking) stick, and a souvenir water bottle. 

1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Section A: Saturday, January 28 (one session)
Registration deadline: Friday, January 20
Section B: Saturday, March 10 (one session)
Registration deadline: Friday, March 2
Fee per section: Member, $25; Non-member, $35

LONG PINE KEY BIKE RIDE/HIKE IN EVERGLADES NATIONAL PARK
ENP Ranger-Led

Join an Everglades National Park Ranger on an adventure through the Pine Rocklands, an endangered and fascinating part of the Everglades. This unique habitat once made up much of South Florida. Long Pine Key is the largest remaining example. Ride between 5-10 miles on old logging roads and discover the power that fire and water have on the forest and the prairie, and the plant communities that thrive in it. Participants must provide their own road, mountain or hybrid bicycle and MUST wear a helmet. Bring plenty of water and a snack; wear sturdy shoes, and bring sunblock and repellent for the possibility of mosquitoes. This morning ride/hike with interpretive stops is limited to 15 participants age 16 and older. Registered participants must sign a “Liability Waiver”. The Park’s entrance fee will be waived with registration and a map will be provided.

10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Saturday, February 11 (one session)
Registration deadline: Wednesday, February 1
Fee: Member, $25; Non-member, $35  

GUIDED CANOE TRIP THROUGH NINE MILE POND IN EVERGLADES NATIONAL PARK
ENP Ranger-Led SOLD OUT

Join a ranger for a guided canoe trip on Nine Mile Pond canoe trail through freshwater marsh and dense mangrove canopy. Nine Mile Pond canoe trail is actually a five mile trail, but we’ll take the shortcut for a 2.5 mile canoe trip. Scan the water and edges of the pond for anhingas, cormorants, herons, great egrets, and other feathered feeders. Look for floating “logs” with eyes; often, shy alligators are spotted amongst the cattails. This four hour Park Ranger led program has limited space. Appropriate for ages 18 and older. Registered participants must sign a “Liability Waiver”. 

1:00 to 5:00 p.m. SOLD OUT
Saturday, February 18 (one session)
Registration deadline: Friday, February 3
Fee: Member, $25; Non-member, $35

MORNING PHOTOGRAPHY IN EVERGLADES NATIONAL PARK
Pedro Lastra

Saturday, March 3 – please see the Photograhpy Section

STARLIGHT WALK IN EVERGLADES NATIONAL PARK
ENP Ranger-Led

Experience the Anhinga Trail by starlight! Night herons, pig frogs, fireflies and gator eyes create a completely different atmosphere on the trail at night. Meet at the Royal Palm benches. Flashlights and insect repellent recommended. Appropriate for families andADAaccessible. Directions and anEvergladesNational Parkentrance waiver will be provided upon registration.

7:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Saturday, March 31 (one session)
Registration deadline: Thursday, March 22
Fee: Member, $25; Non-member, $35