Join the Indiana DNR Nature Preserves and Shirley Heinze Land Trust for a guided hike at Ambler Flatwoods Nature Preserve in LaPorte County.

This nature preserve contains a forest community known as boreal flatwoods, which is characterized by poorly drained soils on a relatively level or “flat” landscape. Overstory trees include red maple, northern pin oak, black gum, tulip tree, and white pine. Many of the plant species occurring here are typically more northern in distribution, and some barely reach within Indiana’s northern border, being restricted to our state in flatwoods. Several plants found here are rare to the state. A selection of interesting northern plants at Ambler includes goldthread, wintergreen, shinleaf, and several species of clubmoss. Tall, elegant cinnamon and royal ferns are commonly encountered and scattered seasonal ponds provide important habitat for a diverse assemblage of breeding salamanders in late winter and early spring.

Directions: I-94, take first right onto C.R. 600 W (Meer Rd.). The main parking area is on the left (west) side of the road, 0.4 mile north of C.R. 800 N (Tryon Rd.). There are five miles of hiking trails departing from three trailheads/parking areas on Meer Road and C.R. 900 N.

The event is free, but registration is required and limited to 25 individuals. When registering a group, select number of individuals and enter names. Email address can be the same.

Wear appropriate clothing and footwear, bring water, sunscreen, and bug spray. Rubber boots are not necessary but may help you explore without getting your feet wet. Bring binoculars and a hand lens, if you have them. No restroom facilities.