McNabb-Walter Nature Preserve
State Designated Nature Preserve [#76; 1984]
Trail. Click to enlarge
There are two trails at this ACRES Land Trust property. The southwestern trail is a relatively short figure eight that passes by some mature oaks and offers views from the top of a bank overlooking the adjacent St. Joseph River. It’s nice enough, but probably would not be enough by itself to justify the trip. Fortunately, this preserve is a twofer.
A second, much longer trail extends from another parking area along Davis Road. It is also a figure eight of sorts and passes through an impressive stand of mature trees, including what ACRES describes as “an old growth maple woods”. Of course, other tree species are present, as is an excellent array of spring wildflowers including large-flowered trillium, toadshade, and Solomon’s seal, among others. This part of the preserve is definitely worth the trip.
Trail Map
Click to enlarge
Directions
Allen County. From I-469 Exit 25, northeast 5.1 miles on IN 37 to Cuba Rd, then left (north) on Cuba Rd for 5.1 miles to Davis Rd. Turn right on Davis Rd; the south lot is 0.2 miles on the left and the north is 0.4 miles on the right.
Southwest: N 41 15.633 W 84 56.440
Eastern: N 41 15.717 W 84 56.267
Facilities
None.
Finder Sketch
Click to enlarge
Nearby Natural Areas (miles)
Blue Cast Springs (10.8)
Vandolah Nature Preserve (12.7)
Covell Nature Preserve (14.3)
Mengerson Nature Preserve (15)
Dustin Nature Preserve (15.1)
Bicentennial Woods (16)