Guided eco tours of rarely seen Big Cypress swamp for $10

Since 1984, legendary nature photographer Clyde Butcher has been capturing the surreal flora, fauna and landscape of Florida's primeval cypress swamp on large-format film. And every once in a while, he lets the public peek behind the scenes to reveal all of nature's mastery and mysteries he has come to love. Mark your calendar and reserve a spot. It's only $10.

Master Naturalist Tours

Big Cypress Gallery
December 3, from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Each tour lasts 55 minutes

This is a rare opportunity for members of the public who can not afford a full-fledged eco tour to venture behind the gates of the Big Cypress Gallery property, a place where usually only staff and rental guests are permitted, for a unique glimpse into this fascinating world. Your Master Naturalist guide will take you on a dry native plant walk around the property where participants will also tour the Swamp Cottage, one of the cozy rental properties. Tours last 55 minutes. Visitors are welcome to see for themselves the property that inspired so many of Clyde Butcher's memorable photographs. Tour details and $10 tickets.

The galleries are open 7 days a week 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Call 239-695-2428. The location can be reached by way of the scenic Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41). Big Cypress Gallery is at 52388 Tamiami Trail East, in Ochopee, FL 34141. It is 47 miles east of Naples and 36 miles west of Miami at Mile Marker 54.5, about half a mile east of the Big Cypress National Preserve Oasis Visitor Center.