Merwin Nature Preserve Loop

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · Fall Colors · River/Creek · Spring · Views · Wildflowers

Begin at the small gravel parking lot off N 1925 East Road. Head east on the trail until you reach the junction a few hundred feet away. Keep left to start the run with majestic oak trees and an easy grade. You'll encounter a shortcut trail heading southward. Keep left to continue on the 2-mile route.

About halfway, meander down to the bottomlands along the Mackinaw River. You'll encounter a section with easy access to the waterway, which provides some nice areas to relax. As you exit the bottomlands, you'll encounter a short climb, and a beautiful vista awaits. A bench provides a good point to rest. Continue toward the parking lot. With both upland and lowland habitat and impressive property management, this restoration project provides a nice reprieve from the surrounding cornfields.

Oak trees and upland and lowland vegetation. Birding opportunities abound.