Hello Fishers! I’m Sarah Sandquist, Director of Fishers Parks. Fishers has 24 parks spread throughout the City, ranging in size and function from pocket parks like Cheeney Creek Nature Area to larger parks like Holland Park and Brooks School Park. Each park has its own character and there is something for everyone!

Located in the heart of Fishers, Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve (10410 Hague Road) is the perfect place to unplug. The park, one of only two state designated nature preserves in Hamilton County, is approximately 127 acres, and boasts nine beautiful nature trails totaling over 2.25 miles that are perfect for running, walking, or enjoying time in nature. 

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Here are 5 reasons you should visit Ritchey Wood Nature Preserve: 

  1. The trails– There are 9 trails running throughout the 127-acre property. Lace up your shoes (or boots in case it is muddy) and explore over 2.25 miles. 
  1. Birdwatching– Grab your binoculars and see how many different types you can find! Check out our guide to backyard birdwatching to help identify different species
  1. The ecosystems– Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve is home to 3 ecosystems- Prairie, Forest, and Wetlands. Each is unique and is home to many species of plants and wildlifeIt is not uncommon to see deer in the forest, crawdads in the wetlands, and honeybees in the prairie!
  1. Graveyard– This small cemetery is believed to be the cemetery for the Osborn family. They moved to Hamilton County in 1835 from Ohio and farmed on the area that is now part of Ritchey Woods.  
  1. Second Nature Backpacks– Stop by our Parks office to check out a Second Nature Backpack before you head to the woods. Each pack includes a pair of binocularsfield guide, insect net, and more! 

While there are of course many more than 5 reasons to visit any of our parks, I hope this list inspires you to visit Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve soon!

Trail photo by Andrew Myers

 

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prairie