Red-Tail Nature Preserve-Prairie Trail
About This Trail
1/2mile+ loop trail follows some paved trail and graveled trail around prairie. Side spurs to Cardinal Greenways and to pond. Late summer is an excellent time to visit the native grasses and wildflowers in full bloom, it is a butterfly oasis. Bring binoculars to enjoy bird-watching throughout the year.
Red-tail Nature Preserve was the first land acquisition project for the RLC founders in 1999. This 105 acre site is located between Prairie Creek Park and the Cardinal Greenway, serving as a link to two significant wildlife habitat areas. A paved trail connects the prairie to the Cardinal Greenway and the Prairie Creek multi-use trails are across the street.
Submitted by: Kim McKenzie
Trail Features
| Seasons | Fall, Spring, Summer, and Winter |
|---|---|
| Surface type | Mixed |
| Elevation gain | 40 ft. |
| Stroller friendly | Yes |
| ADA accessible | No |
| Water fountains | No |
| Bathrooms | No |
| Cell reception | Excellent |
| Pet friendly | Yes |
| Nearby convenience store | No |
| Camping Nearby | Yes |
| Emergency support within 5 miles |
No |
Trail highlights
Lake nearby; prairie overlook/observation platform near parking lot; Osprey nest platform with bat boxes. Explore a restored tall-grass prairie. Tall grass and wildflowers blooming in summer are packed with insects and wildlife.
Fee & Parking Details
At the southwest corner of Prairie Creek Reservoir.
If driving: graveled parking lot off of S CR 461E at E 650 S.
If biking, paved Cardinal Greenways spur trail with sign leads to nature preserve.
More information: http://www.fortheland.org/red-tail-nature-preserve/
Trail Contributor
Hike it Baby Trail Guide is managed by the Family Trail Guide team. If a trail has been “abandoned” by the initial owner, it gets adopted by the team. Also, if there are no trails in the area, the Family Trail Guide team researches trails that are family friendly in the area to insure that hikes cover all areas where Hike it Baby hikes.
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