Elliott Key Trail

Elliott Key is an island located seven miles offshore from the mainland, so it is exclusively accessible by boat. You can arrange private boat transport or utilize the park's authorized ferry service from the mainland to Elliot Key Harbor.

The terrain on Elliott Key is generally flat, consisting mostly of a dirt and sand surface. A portion of the trail along the Atlantic Ocean features a boardwalk. You'll hike through dense tropical hammocks, and might spot surface limestone and fossilized coral reef peeking out from the forest floor.

While the terrain is flat, this particular route is considered difficult due to its significant length (over 26 km) and the remote island setting. The 1.1-mile Elliott Key Loop Trail on the island is easy, but this longer route, which includes sections of the Spite Highway Trail, requires good fitness and preparation for a full day of hiking.

Keep an eye out for various bird species such as herons, egrets, warblers, and hawks. If you visit between April and June, you might even spot the endangered Schaus's swallowtail butterfly. However, be prepared for mosquitoes and no-see-ums, which are prevalent year-round, especially in wooded areas.

The best time to visit is during the cooler, drier months from November to April. This period offers more comfortable temperatures and generally lower humidity, making for a more pleasant hiking experience. Always check weather conditions before you go.

There are no entrance fees to Biscayne National Park itself. However, if you plan to camp overnight on Elliott Key, a permit is required. For the most current information on permits and regulations, it's always best to check the official National Park Service website.

No, pets are generally not allowed on the trails or in the undeveloped areas of Elliott Key, including the campground. Service animals are permitted.

Given the remote nature of the island and the length of the route, you should bring plenty of drinking water, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), insect repellent (essential!), sturdy hiking shoes, snacks, and a first-aid kit. There are no services on the island beyond basic restrooms and cold-water showers at the campground.

Yes, the route primarily follows sections of the Elliott Key Trail. It also passes through parts of the Nature Trail.

A significant feature is the Spite Highway Trail, a unique path through a tropical forest that was once a bulldozed swath. The Elliott Key Trail also includes a boardwalk section along the Atlantic Ocean, offering rewarding coastal views. Side trails off Spite Highway can lead to vistas like Petrel Point overlooking the Atlantic and Sandwich Cove overlooking Biscayne Bay.

Yes, Elliott Key has a campground with restrooms and cold-water showers near Elliot Key Harbor. However, visitors should bring their own drinking water as a precaution, as potable water sources can be unreliable.