I don’t know about y’all, but when I think of National Parks, my mind envisions mountains, rolling hills, trees, and rivers. I know that is not true of all the parks, but that is the first thing I visualize. This is most likely because I live near the most visited National Park in the country – the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, whose appearance closely aligns with my mind’s eye….;-) OK, this serves as a reminder to write about it in a future post!
Dry Tortugas National Park is a different animal altogether. Located 70 miles west of Key West in the Gulf of Mexico, it is accessible only by boat or seaplane. Unless you are planning to pitch a tent on the tiny sliver of available land (and if so check with the Park rangers), you will want to stay in the keys and make a day trip of it. There is a lot here to see.
There are actually organized birdwatching trips and sailing excursions available, but you can have a great time without them. Snorkeling is great here, as is kayaking. Go fishing or paddleboarding, just save time to see Fort Jefferson, which is actually located on the land! Although it was never completely finished, this fort was built between 1846 and 1875. In the past it has served as refuge to those sailing in the Gulf of Mexico or the straits of Florida. Yep, this area does experience hurricanes!
Since you will likely spend the night in Key West, take some time there as well–it’s a fabulous place! Check out my earlier review of the city…
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