Explore the 12‑Mile Tree Tunnel in Florida — a Forested Drive Through Nature

Sometimes when you get cooped up in your house, with your job, or just in the day-to-day grind, all you need to do to shake it all off is go for a long scenic drive. The 12‑mile forested tree tunnel in Florida is a scenic tree‑lined drive located in Martin County, and the perfect detour when life gets tough. Also known as the Martin Grade Scenic Highway, this beautiful tree tunnel in Florida is known for its towering oaks and shaded canopy, creating a must‑see natural attraction for photographers and road trip enthusiasts.

Where Is the 12‑Mile Tree Tunnel in Florida?

The tree tunnel in Florida is located in Martin County, between the communities of Stuart, Indiantown and Okeechobee, on the northeast edge of Lake Okeechobee. For those looking for an exact address for the tunnel of trees, you can use GPS Address: 29751 SW Martin Hwy, Okeechobee, FL (or navigate to "Martin Grade Scenic Highway"). A few nearby landmarks include:

• Lake Okeechobee: The western end of the route offers access to Florida's largest freshwater lake, popular for boating and fishing.
• Allapattah Flats Wildlife Management Area: Located nearby, this area is a prime spot for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and nature viewing.
• Town of Indiantown: A small, historic town close by that offers a glimpse into rural Florida life.
• City of Stuart: Known for its charming downtown, the "Sailfish Capital of the World," and nearby beaches, located to the east.

As you drive through a tree tunnel in Florida, you'll be positively enchanted. The Martin Highway has a simply stunning stretch that features 100-year-old oak trees dripping in Spanish moss that are truly a sight to see.

How Long Is the Tunnel of Trees in Florida?

The forested canopy spans approximately 12 miles of continuous drive. Depending on traffic and stops for photos, a full drive takes roughly 30–40 minutes. The road is paved and suitable for passenger vehicles, though large RVs or buses should check clearance conditions under certain branches. While this isn't an extensive Florida road trip by any means, trust us, it's worth the detour.

What Makes This Florida Tree Tunnel Special?

Unlike a typical roadside drive, the Florida tree tunnel offers an immersive experience as oak branches arch overhead, forming a natural green corridor. Photographers flock here for the interplay of light and shadow, while families and travelers enjoy a serene escape from busy highways. Its combination of scale, canopy density, and accessibility makes it one of the state’s most unique scenic drives. After driving through it myself on a recent trip to Stuart, I felt completely transported as I rolled my windows down and enjoyed the drive. I didn't feel like I was in the current Sunshine State, but transported back to Old Florida for a quick moment in time.

How to Visit the Tree Tunnel

• Best time of day: Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer vehicles.
• Season: The tunnel remains lush year-round, though spring and early summer provide the fullest greenery.
• Driving & biking: The tunnel is fully drivable, and biking is possible on the shoulder where traffic permits.
• Parking & pull-offs: Several small areas allow visitors to safely stop for photos without blocking the roadway.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where exactly is the 12‑mile tree tunnel in Florida?

The tunnel is located along in Martin County, 29751 SW Martin Hwy, Okeechobee, FL, creating a continuous 12-mile stretch of canopy-covered roadway.

Can I drive the entire tree tunnel?

Yes! The road is fully drivable and safe for standard vehicles. Biking is also possible on certain sections if you want a more immersive experience.

When is the best time to visit the tree tunnel?

Early morning or late afternoon provides the best lighting for photos and a quieter experience.

Is the tunnel accessible year-round?

Yes, it is open throughout the year. Seasonal changes slightly alter the foliage but do not limit access. Visit during the spring and summer months to avoid inclement weather and get the most out ofthe sunshine.

Are there nearby attractions to visit after the tree tunnel?

Yes, several parks, scenic stops, and small towns nearby offer additional opportunities for sightseeing. I Personally recommend heading over to Stuart, Florida, for a trip to the seperate Banyan Tree Tunnel, an equally beautiful tree-lined road on Saint Lucie Boulevard.

My Experience Driving the 12-Mile Tree Tunnel

Driving through this tree tunnel felt almost surreal. As I eased onto the road in my Toyota Prius, I rolled the windows down to catch the breeze. The branches overhead slowly began to close in, forming a canopy so thick that sunlight filtered through in soft, scattered beams. For mile after mile, towering trees lined both sides of the road, creating a peaceful corridor that felt worlds away from the busier highways nearby. Windows down, breeze moving through the leaves, it was one of those rare drives where you instinctively slow down—not because you have to, but because you don’t want the experience to end too quickly.

Driving across the Martin Grade you’ll be welcomed back to the beauty and history of Old Florida. As one of Florida’s most coveted scenic highways, you’ll be driving past pastures, groves, swamps, and ancient trees. Just east of Lake Okeechobee, you’ll find this historic highway that has withstood the test of time and makes for a perfect afternoon cruise. Check out “The Grade” as locals call it, and make sure to roll your windows down for the scenic 12-miles of tree-lined wonder.

Who knew there was such a magical way to drive through a tree tunnel in Florida? Have you ever driven down the Martin Grade Scenic Highway in Florida before? Share with us your experience! And if you want some more incredible Florida scenic drives, there are plenty to choose from.