Hathaway Nature Preserve
Natural Areas: Hathaway Nature Preserve
State Designated Nature Preserve [#221; 2008]
Hathaway Creek. Click to enlarge
Hathaway Nature Preserve at Ross Run is an ACRES property that protects about 70 acres in Wabash County. Ross Run is a delightful creek that flows north along part of the eastern edge of this preserve. As it heads toward the Wabash River, Ross Run falls over a multitude of small drops formed by layers of eroding rock that form the bed of the creek. In summer months, dragonflies and damselflies dart and flutter over the sun-dappled scene.
The overall trail system [below, left] is a set of four loops variously attached to each other and totaling about two miles. The trail that heads north from the parking area soon branches. Veer to the right to shadow, now closer, now farther, Ross Run. The trail climbs along bluffs overlooking the creek and makes a large detour around a small but very pretty waterfall formed by a tributary of Ross Run. You’ll soon emerge from the woods and find yourself next to a large white pine plantation.
The pine plantation is of limited interest, but the more natural woods host good spring wildflower displays that include snow trillium, toadshade, trout lily, and hepatica. Further south, a large meadow with scattered trees is home to a wide variety of birds – sparrows, kingbird, and meadowlark - as well as plants more suited to open country.
Trail Map
Click to enlarge
Directions
Wabash County. From the intersection of Old US 24 and IN 524 in Lagro, south 1.5 miles on IN 524, then left 2.2 miles on Baumbauer Rd to the entrance and small parking lot on the right.
GPS: N 40 48.495 W 85 45.484
Facilities
None
Finder Sketch
Click to enlarge
Nearby Natural Areas (miles)
Hanging Rock Nature Preserve (3.8)
Kokiwanee Nature Preserve (5.9)
Lost Bridge West State Recreation Area (10.8)
Asherwood Nature Preserve (13.3)
Tel-Hy Nature Preserve (15.5)
Pehkokia Woods (15.7)
Seven Pillars Nature Preserve (19.6)