Dear Friend,

Are you craving slow, quiet time in the embrace of ancient trees rooted deep into the rich muck? I was, so I took a bold step into the heart of Big Cypress, where the waters calmly flow south to the Everglades, trees create a protective canopy and a humid habitat is rife with plant and animal species. 

Swamp walking is a unique Everglades adventure that allows you to experience — with all of your senses — the riches of natural Florida. With water levels that can reach your chest, you’ll definitely be feeling it.

Talk about forest bathing. 

This slow-moving hike is also known as slough slogging, and is a must-do for anyone who admires the River of Grass. That would be me, Friends of the Everglades Multimedia Producer Leah Voss, and of course I had to document the experience with video. 

Along with a group of other Everglades enthusiasts attending the annual Swamp Celebration, I participated in a 2-hour deep water walk out of Clyde Butcher’s Big Cypress Gallery last October. The experience differs by season and high water levels in the fall guarantee a saturated swamp.

This isn’t my first “wet walk.” A few years ago, I hiked several miles in the deep, rushing Virgin River on the Narrows trail in Zion National Park. It was hard, but there are no alligators in Utah. I will be real with you — there are challenges to swamp walking, like potentially encountering the wild reptiles who know these wetlands backwards, or tripping on hazards like roots or deep holes. But honestly, my mind shed those worries as soon as my body adjusted to the cool water temperature.

I encourage you to face your fears and try a swamp walk. If you’re not quite there, or need just a little more convincing, watch the video of my experience for inspiration – and remember how rejuvenating it can be to spend time in wild spaces.

Happy trails,

Leah Voss

Multimedia Producer

To explore Big Cypress National Preserve via wet walk, contact Clyde Butcher’s Big Cypress Gallery, located along the Tamiami Trail in between Miami and Naples. Their private guided swamp walk eco-tours last 2 hours, are open to all ages and offer different ecological experiences by season. Wheelchair bound or people with other mobility issues can be accommodated.