Card Sound Road Bridge

The Card Sound Road Bridge operates with an all-electronic toll system. Cash is not accepted. Motorists can pay using a SunPass transponder, another interoperable transponder, or through the TOLL-BY-PLATE system, where a bill is mailed to the vehicle's registered owner. The toll for a two-axle automobile is US$1.50, with an additional US$1.00 for each extra axle.

While there isn't a designated hiking trail directly on the bridge, the Card Sound Road itself offers a pleasant route for cycling and driving. It provides continuous stretches suitable for leisurely biking, allowing you to take in the unique mangrove scenery. For more extensive hiking, you would need to explore trails in the surrounding natural areas of North Key Largo or southern Miami-Dade County.

The Card Sound Road Bridge offers expansive views of Card Sound and the surrounding mangrove ecosystems. The drive along Card Sound Road itself is a natural feature, providing a scenic journey through dense mangroves. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, especially birds, in these areas. The high-rise design of the bridge also provides a unique vantage point over the water.

The area around the Card Sound Road Bridge is popular for fishing and kayaking. The tranquil waters of Card Sound offer opportunities to explore the unique marine environment. Many visitors also enjoy the scenic drive or bike ride along Card Sound Road as a recreational activity in itself, appreciating the quieter alternative to the main highway.

The scenic drive and opportunities for outdoor activities like kayaking can be enjoyable for families. For those with dogs, the Card Sound Road itself is suitable for walks, but always ensure your pet is on a leash and that you clean up after them. Specific dog parks or dedicated pet facilities are not directly on the bridge, so plan accordingly for water and waste disposal.

While the immediate vicinity of the bridge is primarily natural landscape, the historic Alabama Jack's restaurant is located nearby on Card Sound Road, offering a popular stop for local flavor. For a wider selection of restaurants, cafes, and accommodation, you would need to venture further into North Key Largo or back towards Florida City on the mainland.

The Card Sound Bridge has a rich history dating back to the 1920s, predating the full completion of the Overseas Highway. The original structure, a wooden swing-span drawbridge, opened in 1928. After being removed in 1945, the modern high-rise causeway that stands today was completed and opened to traffic in 1969, continuing its legacy as a vital link to the Florida Keys.

While no specific permits are typically required for simply crossing the bridge or driving on Card Sound Road, certain recreational activities like fishing may require a valid Florida fishing license. If you plan to launch a kayak, ensure you are using designated public access points. Always check local regulations for any specific permits needed for activities in the surrounding waters or natural areas.

The Card Sound Road Bridge offers a more tranquil and scenic alternative to the often-congested U.S. Route 1 (Overseas Highway) for entering or exiting the Florida Keys. It provides a peaceful drive through natural mangrove areas, offering a different perspective of the region's unique ecosystem. While U.S. Route 1 is the primary route, Card Sound Road is favored by those seeking a less hurried and more picturesque journey.

Public transportation options directly to the Card Sound Road Bridge are very limited. The bridge and Card Sound Road are primarily accessed by private vehicle or bicycle. Visitors typically drive their own cars or use ride-sharing services to reach this location, as it is situated in a more remote, natural area.

The current Card Sound Bridge is a high-level fixed bridge, providing a vertical clearance of 65 feet and a horizontal clearance of 89 feet for waterway traffic. This allows for the passage of most boats and vessels beneath it.