Lots To Do In The Fakahatchee!

Family and friends will have many choices of things to do on EVERGLADES ULTRAS race weekend at and near the race venue, Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park.   The Park's volunteer support group, Friends of Fakahatchee, will sponsor a number of activities, all available on a first-come, first served basis. Participation fees collected by "Friends" for these activities are used exclusively for support of the Fakahatchee Strand Preserve, and are a very important source of funding for the Park.  These are some of the activities we are hoping to offer.  Keep an eye on this page as race day 2014 gets closer for updates and sign-up specifics.

Swamp walk on race day: head into the swamp with a very experienced Fakahatchee swamp guide.  You won’t forget this one, folks!  Visit the “FoF” website for details: www.friendsoffakahatchee.org

Everglades Area "Paddle-In" on race day, Chokoloskee.  Details to follow.

Bike tour in the park on race day: Naples Bike Tours is very familiar with the Fakahatchee, leading groups there frequently.  Owner Marcie Wagner supported the race in 2013 with special tours and a reduced rate for our non-runners on race day, and we hope for a repeat next February.  Naples Bike Tours will provide the bicycle, equipped for the particular conditions in the park, helmets, water and snacks.  The tour will last 2 ½ hours, and meet at 9:00am and again at 12:30pm, if there is sufficient interest.  The tour will include some of East Main Tram where the 50 mile runners go.  Discounted tour cost is $60 per person, with half the proceeds being donated to the park.  Family discount possible.  Minimum age is 10 with good ability to ride. If you are interested, please contact Marcie directly.  Her email address is: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Art in the Preserve ("En Plein Air"), on race day, Boardwalk.  Observe painters capturing the beauty of the swamp, or participate yourself. 10:00am-2:00pm.  See the Event Schedule on the "FoF" website: www.friendsoffakahatchee.org

Take a hike!  Walk about 2 miles from Gate 7 on Janes Scenic Drive to West Main aid station.  It's a beautiful walk and you'll be able to cheer-on runners while out there.

Coastal boat cruise on Friday: enjoy this introduction on the water to the beauty and history of the area around Everglades City, Fakahatchee Bay and the 10,000 islands.  

Fakahatchee Boardwalk guided tour: This 2,000 foot raised walkway provides a terrific overview of a swamp area within the park with views of plant and animal life found there.  You may go on your own, or join an expert tour for a small fee.  Likely starting times are 10:00am and 1:00pm, to be confirmed well before race weekend.


Additional activities are offered by local businesses.
Supporters of the Park providing many alternatives to experience the area include the following companies:

Everglades Area Tours.  Visit their website, Everglades Area Tours

Everglades National Park Boat Tours. Website, Everglades National Park Boat Tours

Everglades Adventure Tours. Website, Everglades Adventure Tours

Shurr Adventure Company. Website, Shurr Adventure Company