Viewpoint · West Lake, The Everglades

West Lake Trail

West Lake Trail
Photo: DanTD, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons

West Lake Trail is a short path through mangroves to a lakeside viewpoint. It offers open sights across the water and into the surrounding wetlands. Look for birds along the edges and any movement in the shallows.

Updated November 6, 2026On day 3 of The Everglades in 3 Days

Visiting West Lake Trail: what to know

Tickets
No tickets required for the trail.
Time needed
30 minutes to one hour.
Best time
Early morning or late afternoon.
Getting there
Drive to the West Lake trailhead off the main park road.

The Everglades itineraries with West Lake Trail

Day 3 of The Everglades in 3 Days

Flamingo and West Lake

How West Lake Trail fits into a day.
  1. 9:00Flamingo Visitor CenterFlamingo
  2. 9:30Eco Pond TrailFlamingo
  3. 11:30Mahogany Hammock TrailMahogany Hammock
  4. 14:00West Lake TrailWest Lake
See all 3 days
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West Lake Trail FAQs

How long is West Lake Trail?

The trail runs roughly half a mile out and back.

Can I see alligators at West Lake Trail?

Alligators sometimes appear in the lake or along the banks.

Is West Lake Trail wheelchair accessible?

The path is flat but check current surface conditions on site.

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