Hello-
I am trying to get some info before we go on our trip to the Keys in a couple of weeks, hubby wants to take the Harley and explore as much as possible. I'm looking at a map of South Florida and am interested in hwy 41 that runs from the east coast of fl to the west coast. Anything interesting to see, other than the obvious Everglades. Are there any gas stations along the way?

Well, you'll drive along the northern border of the Everglades and just south of Big Cypress -- plenty of gas stations. You can bicycle/hike/tram at Shark River entrace to the Everglades and see lots of alligators. Some other tourist traps, like airboat rides.

http://www.sptimes.com/2003/webspeci...il/intro.shtml

Milemarker0,

Thanks so much for the link you posted. I really enjoyed that article.

I'm trying to plan a two week mid-May trip for my husband and myself from Pensacola Beach, where we live, down one side of the state and up the other with some criss-crossing or backtracking, if need be, along Florida's "back roads." We want to get all the way to Key West. I haven't been there since the late 50s or very early 60s and he hasn't been since the mid-80s.

We'll probably spend most of our time south of Ocala or Gainesville since we can hit the areas north of that on shorter trips at a later time.

Since I look out at a gorgeous beach everyday the beaches don't matter as much to us as getting in some snorkeling time (not much to see around here), and seeing things so different from up here like the Everglades, mangroves, etc.

Fran

Another article of interest might be Cap'n Ron and PirateJohn's Florida Keys Adventure Guide @ www.buccaneerpress.com (free download).

I find it a pretty drive and nearly always use it instead of I-75 (Alligator Alley) between Naples and Miami.

One of the most interesting things to see along the way is the smallest postoffice in the US -- it looks like an outhouse -- at Ochopee. (That will take you about a minute and a half!) And don't miss stopping at the Clyde Butcher Gallery -- a fantastic collection of huge black and white photos mostly of the Everglades and other national scenic wonders.

There are one or two smallish gas stations I think at the Indian villages -- but make sure you fill up before you leave either Naples or Miami.

Unless you are going all the way into Miami take Krome Ave Florida SR 997 to Florida City. Just out of Florida City take Card Sound Road to Key Largo, much more scenic and less traffic. Stop at Alabama Jacks just before you cross the toll bridge on Card Sound Rd.

http://www.alabamajacks.com/

Actually, my original post was in April...but we never did find the time to take that route, however, we did get to Alabama Jacks..loved it! Loved the whole trip and can't wait to go back!