Barker Woods Nature Preserve
444 Barker Road, Michigan City, IN 46360
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About the Business
Welcome to Barker Woods Nature Preserve
Nestled in the heart of Michigan City, Indiana, at 444 Barker Road, Barker Woods Nature Preserve offers a serene escape into nature amidst an urban residential setting. Established as a dedicated state nature preserve in 1975, Barker Woods is a rare urban example of an old-growth forest, providing a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Explore the beauty of this mixed forest community, home to majestic white pines, red and white oaks, sugar and red maples, and unique flora like witch hazel, partridge berry, and wintergreen. The preserve's hiking trail, accessible from the parking area in front of Barker House, invites you to immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings. Whether you're listening to the melodic songs of migratory birds in spring or witnessing the breathtaking fall colors in October, Barker Woods offers an ever-changing landscape to admire.
While enjoying the preserve, you'll also be supporting the ongoing efforts to restore its wet forest habitats and combat invasive species such as burning bush and garlic mustard. Thanks to the dedicated work of the Shirley Heinze Land Trust, in partnership with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Barker Woods continues to thrive as a vital natural sanctuary.
Visitors are encouraged to wander the easy terrain for hiking, photography, and bird watching, while respecting the preserve's delicate ecosystem. Please stay on the designated trails to protect rare and threatened plants like trailing arbutus, large-leaved shinleaf, and draping wood sedge.
To visit Barker Woods, take exit 34A from I-94 and head north on U.S. 421. Turn right onto Barker Road and continue past Barker Middle School. After the stop sign on Cleveland Street, take the first left onto the gravel driveway leading into the fenced preserve. Parking is available in the designated area.
Discover the natural beauty and tranquility of Barker Woods Nature Preserve—a green oasis in the bustling city, perfect for quiet contemplation and a deeper connection with the natural world.
Reviews
"A beautiful place for an autumn walk. The trail is less than a mile. It is easy to follow, well-maintained, and gorgeous."
"I really enjoy our visits to Barker Woods Nature Preserve. My wife and I take our dogs there for exercise. Both for her and fir us. Very pretty, very close, and the terrain is fairly flat which makes walking a little easier. I do like it. FIVE STARS ALL DAY."
"Wonderful little gem"
"Excellent place to experience nature in an urban environment. Well marked trails enhanced by a nature guide add to the enjoyment of this preserve."
"Short but beautiful trail. Just watch your step for roots."
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