This 3.25-mile nature trail takes visitors to the "wild side" of Powell Gardens. Marked with 24 interpretive signs, the trail wends past lotus- and frog-filled ponds, through woods of Osage orange and honeylocust and into an abandoned field of meadow flowers. After following along an embracing canopy of an old Osage orange hedgerow, the trail curves into the woods along a creek that flows into the Gardens’ 12-acre lake. Eventually, the trail climbs to the ridge that flanks Powell Gardens’ north and east boundaries. Here, visitors will see pockets of prairie that once covered the entire ridge. Unique plants along this prairie ridge include the compass plant with its north-south aligned leaves, rare eared false foxglove, bigroot prickly pear and three species of ladies’ tresses orchids. The trail also is a haven for butterfly and birdwatchers. Brochures that highlight the species living in the area are available at the trailhead. The expanded trail was made possible thanks to a generous donation from Marilyn T. and Byron C. Shutz and the Shutz Foundation.

Before you begin your nature hike:

• Know your capabilities. Review the distance and your fitness level before you start.
• Make sure to allow enough time to complete the trail before the Gardens close and the gates are locked.
• Minimize your exposure to insects: tuck your pant legs into your socks, spray insect repellent around your ankles.
• Learn to recognize poison ivy and avoid contact.
• Take water with you, especially in hot weather.
• Stay on the trail!
• Be aware we are in the range for copperheads and timber rattlers, although none have been identified on the property. You may encounter a variety on non-venomous snakes.
• The trail will be closed during deer season for your safety. Although public deer hunting is not permitted at Powell Gardens, the trail winds close to our borders, creating a potential safety hazard.