Discover the River of Grass with Shark Valley Tram Tours
The Shark Valley Tram Experience with Trained Naturalists
Shark Valley Tram Tours provide two-hour guided journeys along a 15-mile loop trail that delves deep into the Everglades. Traveling in open-air trams, visitors have ample opportunities to observe the diverse wildlife that inhabits this vast landscape. A highlight of the tour is a stop at the Shark Valley Observation Tower, standing 45 feet tall, offering panoramic vistas of the expansive “River of Grass.”
Why the Everglades is Called the “River of Grass”
The term “River of Grass” was made popular by environmentalist Marjory Stoneman Douglas in her 1947 book titled “The Everglades: River of Grass.” This name aptly describes the Everglades as a slow-moving, shallow river dominated by sawgrass marshes.
Native Americans originally referred to the area as “Pa-hay-Okee,” meaning “grassy waters,” highlighting the region’s unique characteristics. These sawgrass marshes provide essential habitat for the plant and animal species in the Everglades, including alligators, blue heron, the Snail Kit, and more.
River Of Grass Everglades FAQs
How many miles long is the River of Grass?
The Everglades “River of Grass” spans approximately 100 miles from Lake Okeechobee to the Gulf of Mexico, with a width of about 60 miles in some areas.
Why did Marjory Stoneman Douglas write “The Everglades: River of Grass”?
Marjory Stoneman Douglas wrote “The Everglades: River of Grass” to raise awareness about the ecological significance of the Everglades and to advocate for its preservation. Her work was instrumental in changing public perception and promoting conservation efforts for this unique environment.
Why choose an Everglades bike or tram tours over airboat adventures?
Among the choices for Everglades National Park tours, bike and tram tours offer a quieter, more environmentally friendly way to explore the Everglades, minimizing disturbance to wildlife and providing educational insights from experienced guides. Exploring the Everglades with Shark Valley Tram Tours offers memorable Everglades River of Grass adventures that enable you to immerse yourself in the beauty and complexity of this remarkable area.