Halfway Creek flows through the extreme southwestern corner of Big Cypress National Preserve in Collier County, Florida, before entering Everglades National Park and eventually connecting to Chokoloskee Bay. The creek gets its name from its mouth's location halfway between Everglades City and Chokoloskee Island. This blackwater creek originates in the mangrove swamps and marshes of Big Cypress, traveling approximately seven miles from its headwaters to the Gulf Coast.

The primary paddling route spans 7.3 miles from the Big Cypress Welcome Center at Sea Grape Drive (off US 41/Tamiami Trail) to the Gulf Coast Visitor Center in Everglades City. A 3.7-mile loop trail branches off the main route between markers HC3 and HC7, offering paddlers flexibility in trip planning.

The journey begins along a man-made canal before transitioning into natural creek environments, passing through small lakes and narrow mangrove tunnels that require maneuvering skills and sometimes shorter paddles or breakdown models. Trail markers labeled "HC" and "L" guide paddlers through the system, though the mangrove-lined waterways can be disorienting without proper navigation.

The creek is tidal and influenced by Chokoloskee Bay, with water levels fluctuating throughout the day. Sections become impassable at low tide, and paddlers should verify conditions before launching. The narrow mangrove tunnels—particularly between HC6 and HC7—present the most challenging segments, where overhanging vegetation creates tight passages requiring paddlers to pull themselves through using branches rather than paddling.

November through April offers optimal conditions, with tolerable temperatures, lower water levels, and reduced insect populations. Summer months bring oppressive heat and mosquitoes that make paddling uncomfortable.

The creek supports diverse wildlife including alligators, manatees, wading birds such as great white egrets, ibis, and roseate spoonbills, along with ospreys and occasionally tarpon in winter months. Air plants (bromeliads) flourish in the tree canopy, creating spectacular displays when blooming.

The main access point is the boat ramp at Big Cypress Welcome Center on Sea Grape Drive, approximately nine miles east of Everglades City. The terminus at Gulf Coast Visitor Center in Everglades City provides takeout for through-trips. Everglades Adventures at the Ivey House offers rental services and shuttle support for one-way paddles.

Paddlers should expect moderate to difficult conditions requiring intermediate skills, particularly for navigating mangrove tunnels and managing tidal currents. Airboat noise from nearby operations can disrupt the wilderness experience. The route typically requires 4-6 hours for the main trail, with the loop adding 2-3 hours. Backcountry permits are required and available at the Big Cypress Welcome Center.

This creek provides an authentic Everglades paddling experience through pristine mangrove ecosystems largely unchanged by development.