Route #3 — Tamiami · 8.5 Square Mile Area · West Kendall

This route takes place at the western edge of the Miami metropolitan area, in a transitional zone between the urban expansion of West Kendall and the wetlands that signal the proximity of the Everglades. The route crosses the well-known 8.5 Square Mile Area, a broad stretch of land located south of the Tamiami Trail, characterized by drainage canals, gravel roads, and scattered agricultural plots.

This sector underwent major transformations during the twentieth century, when large-scale water control projects radically altered the natural flow of water. The infrastructure visible along the route—levees, gates, and canals—reflects human efforts to dominate a landscape that has historically been unstable and prone to flooding.

Despite its proximity to densely populated areas, the environment retains an isolated character, with wide open spaces, little shade, and a constant presence of wildlife. The route clearly illustrates the contrast between the rapid urbanization of Miami-Dade County and the territories that still preserve a semi-wild character along the edge of the Everglades.

The complete route and its historical context are included in Discovering Florida – Volume 1.