The legendary Alligator Alley is one of Florida's signature road trips, and those who've ever driven to Miami will likely have experienced some of it The route showcases some of the state's glorious scenery with no lack of photography-worthy spots along the way and is an all-round adventure for travelers who can't deny themselves a good ol' road trip with flyby tropical panoramas and verdant Everglade lands and waters.

Traversing across Florida's southern tip, Alligator Alley is one of the state's many highlights; however, drivers who want to soak up its sights and sounds need to know a few key points before attempting to tackle its stunning vastness. With this in mind, steer into the following facts before going on this standout Floridian road trip of a lifetime that could give its other southern road trip counterparts a good run for their money.

12 What And Where Is Alligator Alley?

First established in 1968 after what seemed like an eternity of construction work, this classic road trip is a stretch of I-75 that goes on for about 80 or so miles, crossing through the Everglades between two Florida favorites - Naples and Fort Lauderdale. Earning its apt name thanks to the gators that inhabit its parts, Alligator Alley isn't just for road trippers; it's a convenient tourist trail for visitors to reach the famous Miami Beach.

Needless to say, though, it's an incredible road journey in itself, even if heading to the beach isn't the aim of the day. Naturally, tourists and locals know the road as the gateway to various Miami attractions and one of their most-loved road trip escapades; however, those who've seen it on the screen might recognize its scenery from a number of popular movies and crime series, such as CSI and Dexter to name just two famous hit shows.

11 It's Remote

When ticking Alligator Alley off the bucket list, it's important to know this: it's as remote as it is wild. Drivers are traversing huge sections of the Everglades on their exploration by road, no matter from where they start - be it Miami or Naples. What does this mean? Well, travelers must be well-prepared in advance. Due to its remoteness, the route rarely sees any gas stations, rest stops, stores, and accommodation, so be sure to pack ample supplies, snacks, medication, phone chargers, and whatever else might come in need - a first aid kit wouldn't go amiss either. Also, if anyone happens to suffer from motion sickness, bring remedies for them, too - it's a heck of a long ride, and its scenery is far too majestic to waste the whole time puking in a bucket as it whizzes on by.

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10 It's Beautiful And Nature-Rich

Alongside the beautiful drive-by scenery of Florida's luscious landscapes and its glittering Everglade waterways, Alligator Alley is a prolific wildlife hub home to intense amounts of species - and it's for this reason the entire stretch is fenced off along the side; to protect creatures and cars from collisions. Alligators are only half the story here, there are endangered Florida panthers, hence the level of protection officials have layered in order to keep them from getting hit by vehicles (which has happened a lot over the years, unfortunately).

9 Respect The Alligators And Keep A Distance

It can be exciting to see an alligator, particularly if it's one's first time encountering this fascinating prehistoric creature. On the other hand, as intriguing as they may be, they have a bitey end chock full of sharp teeth with a feisty attitude to match - and drivers don't want to be anywhere near said bitey end chock full of said sharp teeth when their attitude gets the better of them.

If an alligator feels threatened by a person getting too close, it may well attack, so be sure to stay at least 40 feet away and don't try to move them - even if they're on the road. In the latter case, call the authorities and wait for them to move the animal - there are special teams dedicated to safely removing these creatures from the road. Furthermore, drivers should absolutely not run an alligator over with their vehicle; they are protected as a species, and it's illegal to harm them.

8 Watch Out For Alligator Nests

Avoiding getting close to animals along Alligator Alley is a given, as is watching out for them on the road. But in particular, it's nests that travelers need to be careful of since they're not always obvious. Alligator nests tend to resemble big heaps of leaves, dirt, and earth, appearing more frequently during spring and summer - and they can be well camouflaged, so always be aware of where those feet are. Folks who happen to find a nest should keep their distance; if they get too close, it's highly likely angry momma gator is gonna come at them to protect her nest. Consider this a warning!

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7 Don't Get Low On Gas

There are hardly any gas stations along the 80-mile stretch nor its surroundings, which leaves the necessity to fill up before drivers begin the trip - perhaps even taking a spare gas canister or two if they can fit it in the trunk. Road trippers setting off on the journey from both Miami and Naples can find a gas station at each end before they head onto the highway. Also, there is a service station right in the middle of Alligator Alley; however, it's the only one, which means gas prices are usually double those at either end of the road.

6 Have Breakdown Gear And Cover

Alligator Alley is long and remote with not a lot going on other than what Mother Nature does best in this part of the US: rich Floridian flora and fauna. While this is scenic and all, the enjoyment can be ruined by an unprepared road tripper. This is why it's vital to have an emergency breakdown cover in case that car stops truckin'; having someone come to the rescue in case of a break-down isn't just peace of mind, it's also a lifeline. Additionally, having a spare tire and the tools to change a flat will come in handy should one go pop, as would having flashlights, batteries, jumpstart cables, and any other tools that could help in case of anything going sour in the car.

5 Plan Rest Stops

It's only 80 miles, which isn't exactly a taxing, lengthy trip. Still, some people prefer to do Alligator Alley over a day or two instead, taking the time to take in the scenery slowly rather than rushing through it all. In any case, it's crucial to plan those rest stops before starting the journey. There are a few rest stops available along the way usually within 30 minutes or so of each other, two of which can be found in Broward County and Collier County, in addition to the service station located in the middle of the stretch.

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4 It's Illegal To Sleep At Rest Stops

On the topic of rest stops, drivers should be aware that it's against the law to sleep at rest stops in Florida. Parking overnight is normally fine, although there may be some signs that warn travelers not to do so at certain points. Either way, check all signs before stopping for a break and be sure to keep an eye out for any local wildlife.

3 Don't Expect To Find Somewhere To Eat

Despite there being a tiny handful of rest stops and convenience-store-gas-station combos along Alligator Alley, drivers will be disappointed if they intend to find a bite to eat en route. The only grub people are likely to find along the way are snacks and gas station food, which is enough to keep the wheels turning, but not exactly a hearty meal to feed a hungry family. Should stomachs be prone to growling, it's wise to eat in advance before going through the toll booths - after which folks are unlikely to find anything substantial to tuck into if bellies start screeching.

Alternatively, an even better idea is preparation and hunger prevention - especially if there are little ones with loud mouths in the car. Pack lunch boxes or even a cooler filled with snacks, sandwiches, drinks, and other samples of sustenance that'll keep appetites at bay throughout the day. That way, starvation and 'hangry' howls won't ruin the trip.

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2 Be Wary Driving At Night

It goes without saying that caution and care are mandatory when it comes to driving down Alligator Alley at any time of the day. Moreover, though, a little more attention is required at night because some parts of the highway can get really, really dark, despite lampposts being common at the start and end of the route. Of course, the highway is fenced off from nature, but that doesn't stop the occasional critter or creature from escaping onto the road - so keep an eye out and remain ready for possible animals making a risqué appearance in front of the headlights, especially come nightfall. Drivers who struggle to see at night or who are prone to drowsiness should ideally let someone else take over the wheel, or else wait until morning to continue the trip. It's better to be safe than sorry.

1 Keep To The Speed Limit

Far too many drivers let Alligator Alley's isolated remoteness and sublime escapist stretches of absolutely nothing with no car in sight lull them into a false state of speedy security. It can feel all too tempting to use the wide-open roads and long horizons as an excuse to put that pedal to the metal - but that's a colossal mistake. Car accidents kill people, and it's no exception on this length of the road, thus don't be tempted to drive like a Formula One racer - it may just cost a life. Sticking to the 70 mph limit or lower at all times isn't difficult; plus, speeders will receive warnings from the new electronic signs, which monitor vehicles' speeds and warn them accordingly should they go over the sign-posted 70 mph limit.

Furthermore, if it's not to save lives, curb that speed to save bucks. Those who speed are gonna get fined, for this is where state troopers love to hang out with their speed guns and clock unsuspecting road trippers who've been enchanted by the scenery so much so that they've forgotten to look at their speedometer. Don't let a lack of checking that 'speedo' ruin the trip and take away dollars that could've been spent on gas or buying snacks for the giddy kiddies in the back seat - those caught speeding by the authorities will get hefty tickets and a stern telling off.