Book excerpt: Create a canoeing or kayaking experience you’ll never forget, through Florida’s Everglades National Park and the 99-mile Wilderness Waterway. Those in the know will tell you there is only one way to truly experience Florida’s Everglades National Park, and that is by canoe or kayak. Whether you are a novice paddler or a seasoned whitewater river runner, Paddling the Everglades Wilderness Waterway is your all-in-one guide for safe adventure on this spectacular route. Authors Holly Genzen and Anne McCrary Sullivan present 17 of their favorite day- and overnight trips from various Everglades departure points. Having spent years exploring this maritime labyrinth, the authors share their intimate knowledge of historic Everglades rivers and bays, the endless horizon of its Gulf Coast, the eerie beauty of its mangrove forests, and the secrets of ancient tribes and early American pioneers. Descriptions of wildlife abound (the birds! the alligators!), as do the details of exquisite flora that flourishes here. Inside you’ll find: The complete 99-mile Wilderness Waterway route between Everglades City and Flamingo—north to south and south to north 17 day trips and overnight paddles Nearly 30 campsites and gazebo-like chickees stilted over the water Maps, GPS coordinates, trip preparation, safety tips, and waterway etiquette An expansive directory of Everglades flora, fauna, people, and places Intimate observations about Everglades history, environment, and its future Whether you only have time for a brief Everglades visit or are embarking on a 10-day expedition, this book is for you.