Wilderness Road State Park offers interpretive historical and nature programs throughout the year.
As the season changes, so does the subject of the park’s various programs. The Indian Ridge Trail is used frequently throughout the year for Nature Hikes, with the focus shifting depending on the season. The park conducts hikes in the Spring, Summer, Fall and with the new National Day Calendar in place, a self-guided hike will be offered this Winter, on January 1, 2012.
Recently, the park’s Conservation Intern, Olivia Marcum, conducted a Fall Nature Hike, and offered the following account of the day in her own words:
Olivia Marcum led an informative and entertaining Fall Nature Hike on Indian Ridge Trail
On Saturday, November 19, I lead a nature hike along Indian Ridge Trail in the nice autumn weather. It turned out to be a perfect day with great weather and a comfortable temperature. The hike was a great way to get out, have some fun and get some exercise. We had seven total participants, two boy scouts, their three leaders and two participants from the community. Two dogs also tagged along to have some fun with us.
Along the trail we made numerous stops collecting twigs and acorns. Once we had a good collection, I showed the participants the different characteristics of the buds from different trees and how you can tell them apart. They found it interesting how the buds can vary so much. For example, one bud may have scales and another bud may have little tiny hairs on it.
The different acorns that were picked up were of various shapes and sizes, characteristic to certain oaks which the participants found surprising. Everyone had a great time together, learning from one another different things about nature. I am definitely looking forward to another nature hike!
For more information about the Wilderness Road State Park, please visit our website or call the office at 276-445-3065.