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Posted by Matt (70.126.229.102) on 19:41:51 01/20/07
In Reply to: Information posted by Traveler
As probably the only Tampa resident that frequents this board I figured I would give you a little advice. First off, the trip to the main gate from Tampa is about 5 hours of straight driving and that includes a good 85-90 mph across Alligator Alley. There are however several worthwhile stops along the way.
Venice Rookery is a must see for nesting herons, egrets, anhingas. This is off exit 193 on I75.
Once reaching Naples I would highly recommend cutting south to the Tamiami trail (US 41). This is a more scenic drive than Alligator Alley although a bit slower. There are several beautiful areas here including Loop Road, Kirby Storer boardwalk and Shark Valley which is the northwest corner of the Glades.
Of course anyone will tell you that you have to stop at "Robert is Here" the fruit stand near the entrance to the park to get a fruit shake.
Once inside the park Anhinga trail can't be beat for wildlife. I like to camp nearby at Long Pine Campground which is inside the park just a few miles down the road. Also don't miss the crocodiles down at the marina in Flamingo at the end of the Glades.
Matt
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