The Bear Lake Trail follows a narrow path through a dense, lush hardwood hammock mixed with mangroves. Featuring over 50 different tree species, the Bear Lake Trail dead ends into Bear Lake, a popular fishing spot and canoe destination. The Bear Lake Trail is one of the most varied ecological routes in the Everglades.

The Bear Lake Trail is considered a 'backcountry trail' and is not officially maintained by the park

Raccoons, primarily nocturnal mammals, inhabit the Bear Lake area

The Zebra Butterfly, seen here, is a common species within the Everglades. This one was catching afternoon sun on the Bear Lake Trail

A sole Osprey scans the horizon at Bear Lake in search of fish. Osprey feed only on live fish and generally mate for life

View from the shore of Bear Lake, located in the southwest section of the Everglades

Nature often imitates itself in the Everglades. Here at Bear Lake, a partially submerged log resembles the mouth of an alligator