You are here > Home > South Florida > The Everglades > West Lake
Latest update: December 2019

West Lake... Near Flamingo

Paddling in Everglades National Park

West Lake is one of the largest lakes in the central portion of Everglades National Park and the mostly open water can be choppy on windy days. The concrete ramp at the trailhead is an easy launch; no motors over 5.5 hp allowed. This is an alligator and crocodile habitat, plus the usual assortment of Everglades wildlife, birds and fish can be seen. (Detailed map and photos below.)

West Lake Paddling Map
The Everglades, Flamingo area

Distance: 16 miles roundtrip
Location: Collier County (Everglades National Park)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Tidal: Yes
Launch points: 7 miles north of Flamingo off Main Park Road (See map)
Nearby points of interest: Miami, Miccosukee Indian Reservation, Florida Keys

Rentals/Outfitters/Tours:

N/A

Support and Advocacy:

National Park Foundation
The Alliance for Florida's National Parks
Friends of The Everglades

 Page Summary:

1. Paddling on West Lake
   - On the Lake
   - At the Trailhead
2. More Information and Resources

Paddling on West Lake... Comments and Photos

This can be a full-day paddle, mostly open water subject to sun and wind, so standard precautions are recommended - do not paddle alone, bring food, plenty of water, sun block, insect repellant, waterproof bags for gear, tide chart, and a GPS. The closest visitor center to West Lake is the Flamingo Visitor Center, including an information center with natural history exhibits, a ramp at the marina, and boat tours and rentals.

On the Lake

The eight mile trail (one way) goes through mangrove tunnels connecting West Lake (which itself is about 2 miles) to Long Lake and the Lungs to Alligator Creek. Alligator Creek connects to Florida Bay at Garfield Bight where primitive camping is available.

At the Trailhead

The trailhead is located off the main park road about 7 miles north of the Flamingo Visitor Center. Parking, restrooms and a picnic pavilion are available. A half-mile (round-trip) boardwalk trail through mangrove meanders from the road to a boardwalk at the lake.

More Information and Resources

Nearby Paddling:

Everglades National Park (Area Overview)
See FL South Region for more paddling

Nearby Biking:

Bicycling in The Everglades

Related Resources:

National Park Service - Everglades National Park
National Park Service - Everglades Canoe and Kayak Trails