Discover the Everglades National Park at your own pace with a bicycle ecotour. Riding a bike offers a unique and immersive experience, allowing you to see more and connect with nature on the scenic Everglades bike trail. Forget the tram and embrace the freedom of two wheels to explore the wonders of Shark Valley.
Family enjoying a bike ecotour on rental bikes along the Everglades trail.
Why Choose Rental Bikes for Your Everglades Adventure?
Biking the 15-mile paved loop at Shark Valley provides an unparalleled opportunity to experience the Everglades ecosystem. This flat, well-maintained Everglades bike trail is perfect for cyclists of all skill levels. A leisurely bike ride typically takes between 2 to 3 hours, but you’ll want to factor in extra time for frequent stops to observe the abundant wildlife and stunning landscapes. Compared to a tram tour, a bike allows you to stop whenever you wish, linger at your favorite spots, and truly soak in the Everglades’ natural beauty.
Renting Bikes at Shark Valley: Easy and Convenient
Shark Valley Tram Tours makes exploring by bike accessible to everyone with their convenient rental bike service. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, renting a bike is a hassle-free way to enjoy the Everglades bike trail.
On-Site Bike Rentals Available
You can easily rent bikes directly at Shark Valley. They offer a range of Rental Bikes to suit different needs, including:
- Single-speed coaster brake bikes: Simple and reliable, perfect for the flat terrain. These come with adjustable seats for riders of various heights and baskets for carrying essentials.
- Children’s bikes (20-inch): So the whole family can enjoy the ride.
- Bikes with child seats: For families with younger children (must meet specific age and weight requirements: minimum 24 months old, able to sit upright and hold head up with a helmet, and weigh under 35 pounds). Helmets are provided with all rental bikes, and are required for children under 16 by Florida law.
Bike rentals are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving earlier in the day is recommended, especially during peak season. Don’t forget to bring a driver’s license or ID for the rental process.
Bike Rental Hours and Fees
Plan your Everglades bike adventure accordingly with these rental details:
- Bike Rental Hours: Rentals begin at 8:30 AM and run until 4:00 PM daily.
- Bike Return Time: All rental bikes must be returned by 5:00 PM.
- Bike Rental Fee: The rental fee is $26 per bike for the entire day, offering great value for hours of Everglades exploration.
You can reserve your rental bikes online in advance to guarantee availability, especially if you are visiting with a group or during busy times. A portion of bikes are also held for walk-up rentals each day, available from 8:30 AM on a first-come, first-served basis.
Essential Tips for Your Everglades Bike Ride
To ensure a safe and enjoyable bike tour on the Everglades bike trail, keep these important points in mind:
- Hydration is Key: Florida heat can be intense, especially in the Everglades. Bring plenty of water with you as there is no drinking water available along the bike trail. Hydrate well before you start your ride.
- Sun Protection: Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a hat or helmet and applying sunscreen.
- Wildlife Awareness: The Everglades is home to diverse wildlife. Maintain a safe distance (10-15 feet) from all animals and never feed or disturb them. Remember, you are in their natural habitat.
- Weather Preparedness: Afternoon thunderstorms are common in South Florida, particularly during summer. Morning bike rides are usually cooler and less likely to be interrupted by storms. Check the local weather forecast before you go: http://weather.miami.cbslocal.com/US/FL/Miami.html.
- Helmet Safety: Florida law requires cyclists under 16 to wear helmets. For everyone’s safety, helmet use is strongly recommended. Learn about the importance of helmets.
- Bike Risk Acknowledgement: If you rent a bike from Shark Valley Tram Tours, you will need to sign a Bike Risk Acknowledgement Form before starting your adventure.
By renting bikes at Shark Valley, you’re choosing an active, engaging, and memorable way to experience the unique beauty of the Everglades National Park. Get ready to pedal through paradise!
