Clubhouse Beach Out and Back

This is one of the best and most accessible opportunities to explore a classic Everglades trail with a beautiful reward waiting at the end. To access this hike, head to the Flamingo Visitor Center for an overnight camping permit and park at the west end of the Flamingo Campground Loop. Take the Coastal Prairie Trail west as it skirts the edge of a dense hardwood hammock and a sawgrass prairie. Around 1.5 miles in, the trail heads into the forest and will continue to duck in and out of the forest for the next 4.5 miles. At mile 6, the trail bends to left and heads south in the final stretch to the coastline and Clubhouse Beach.What makes this journey truly one to remember is the unobstructed sunset view. Bring a camera and wait for the dramatic colors to emerge as the sun dives behind the horizon. If you are spending the night (a backcountry permit is required), be sure to explore the beach the next morning before heading back the same way you came.

This trail follows an old road once used by cotton pickers and fisherman.