The Florida Trail’s Southern Terminus is located here at the Oasis Visitor’s Center in Big Cypress National Preserve which encompasses 729,000 acres of subtropical terrain, about a third of which is covered with the dwarf pond cypress. Bordering the northern edge of Everglades National Park. Big Cypress is named for its great expanse, not the size of the trees.
The Halfway Creek and Loop Trails are accessible from the Gulf Coast Visitor Center in Everglades City or from the Big Cypress Welcome Center on Sea Grape Drive off of US 41. The Creek is 7.3 miles long from the Big Cypress Welcome Center to the Gulf Coast Visitor Center. The upper loop is an additional 3.7 miles. From the Gulf Coast Visitor Center, the Halfway Creek-Left Hand Turner-Turner River loop is 11 miles. Allow 4-8 hours for these trails.
The Oasis Visitor Center has exhibits related to the natural and cultural history of the preserve, educational materials, sales items, and an introductory film. Staff are available to assist visitors with information about available activities.
