Many nature photographers wonder about the location of a famous tree which can be accessed by following the coordinates 25.4017094, -80.7913958. However, it is advised to avoid getting too close to it during the rainy season, which usually falls in the summer, as the area can be flooded and alligators may be present. Fortunately, other Z trees are easily accessible and do not require walking on muddy terrain to capture great shots of these unique trees.
The First Z Tree is Huge
To get to the first Z tree follow these directions:
Drive from the Homestead entrance until you see the sign for Long Pine Key. Turn left there. Before you reach the parking and camping area at Long Pine Key, you will see a hiking trail on your right side. Park your vehicle next to the trail. When standing in front of the hiking trail, turn to your right and look up. You will see the Z-shaped tree right there.
The Second Z Tree is Hiding in Plain Sight
To get to the second Z tree follow these directions:
From the Long Pine Key hiking trail drive back to the main road, turn left, and keep driving until you see the Pineland sign. Turn right into the parking lot and you’ll find the Z tree in front of the first parking spot on your right.
What Other Photographers Have Said About the Z Trees
I came across an interesting debate regarding the origins of the Z trees. Some people suggest that the native Indians who lived in the Everglades had a mysterious technique to bend the tree trunks in a Z shape. They did this supposedly to guide them through the area and prevent them from getting lost. On the other hand, some people argue that if that were true, we would see Z trees everywhere. They say that they have only heard of the most famous one. However, I have found references to at least two more Z trees.
I am curious about how the native tribes survived in the Everglades without modern amenities like homes, cars, and artificial lights. They must have had effective strategies for hunting, sleeping, and having fun. However, considering the abundance of animals and insects in the area even today, I can only imagine how challenging it was, let’s say 300 years ago. It must have been difficult dealing with alligators and snakes, not to mention experiencing storms without forecast systems.
The Everglades Park is not just a place to search for Z trees. It is a wonderland where you can capture all kinds of wildlife, storms, supercells, sunrises, and sunsets. If you are into astrophotography, then the sky is the limit. However, remember that if you plan to spend any amount of time exploring, whether an hour or 8 hours, it is essential to bring a good load of mosquito repellent.
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