Loon Lake Nature Preserve
State Designated Nature Preserve [#103; 1987]
Loon Lake. Click to enlarge
Though you may not see them, pitcher plant, purple bladderwort, and other rare plants live at Loon Lake. A wide mowed path leads away from the gate and is the most direct route to the “shore”. However, a side loop branches off to the right just beyond the gate and provides a wooded alternative. The two paths soon reunite and proceed gradually downward through woods toward the lake. Small boards extend a few feet into progressively wetter areas. In the warmer months when the cattails are at their greatest extent the best views of the lake may be from the slopes before you reach the water’s edge. In winter or spring, when the cattails are beaten down, you may be able to see across the considerable expanse of the lake, though the view is compromised somewhat by the homes that line the far shore.
Trail Map
Click to enlarge
Directions
Steuben County. From I-69 Exit 348, proceed west ¼ mile on US 20 to 325W, then right 0.7 miles to the preserve sign; park next to the sign.
GPS: N 41 38.645 W 85 03.161
Facilities
None
Finder Sketch
Click to enlarge
Nearby Natural Areas (miles)
Marion's Woods (4.9)
Wing Haven Nature Preserve (7.6)
Beechwood Nature Preserve (7.8)
Pokagon State Park (8)
McClue Nature Reserve (8.1)
Robb Hidden Canyon Nature Preserve (12.6)
Ropchan Memorial Nature Preserve (14.5)
Maplewood Nature Preserve (17.1)
Fawn River Nature Preserve (18.5)
Douglas Woods (19)