Nature Trails

The viewshed on the Southwind Nature Trail.

NPS Photo

Three nature trails (shorter in length) allow visitors to experience the tallgrass prairie first-hand, while remaining in closer proximity to visitor services. These trails are dog friendly, but please help all visitors enjoy them by keeping dogs on a visible 6' maximum leash and picking up after your pet. Enjoy your hike by following these important safety rules. Permits are not required to hike the trails. All trails open 24 hours; no camping.

• The Southwind Nature Trail 

• Bottomland Nature Trail 

• Fox Creek Trail

• Two-Section Trail is pet-friendly when cattle are not present 

Hiking Rules:

• No smoking on trails

• Foot traffic only on hiking trails. No bikes, horses, or motorized conveyance.

• Pets are allowed on the nature trails only. Pets must be leashed at all times. Please pick up after your pet.

• Hunting and projectiles prohibited.

• Please do not harass the wildlife. All wildlife is protected.

• This is a natural area. Watch for snakes, poison ivy, and wild animals.

• Take only pictures, leave only footprints.

• Please enjoy the trail by staying on the path.

• No camping is available at the preserve.

Details

Duration

45 Minutes

Depending on which nature trail, some are longer than others. The Southwind and Bottomland Nature trails generally are traversable within 45 minutes. The Fox Creek Trail, which is an extension of the Bottomland Trail, is longer and may take a couple hours. It is roughly a six-mile loop. 

Activity

Self-Guided Tours - Walking

Nature trails are generally shorter in length and provide a nice hiking experience for more novice or visitors with time limitations. The nature trails are also pet-friendly. 

Pets Allowed

Yes

Pets must be leashed at all times. Please pick up after your pet. Doggie bags are available at two kiosks near and on the Southwind Nature Trail.

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Trails are open 24/7 365 days a year except during times of prescribed fire.

Time of Day

Any Time

Accessibility Information

The Southwind Nature Trail is a mowed grass and gravel path through tall grass. It has water erosion bars, with parts of the trail difficult for traveling with strollers or wheelchairs. 

The Bottomland Nature Trail is the most wheel-chair friendly trail on the preserve. It is however somewhat difficult when it is wet.