Big Darby Headwaters Nature Preserve

The 900-acre Big Darby Headwaters Nature Preserve encompasses a mixture of wetlands and streamside forests. Here, humble coldwater springs emerge, forming the nourishing capillaries that are the lifeblood of Big Darby Creek, one of the most biologically diverse streams of its size in the Midwest. Flora and fauna surveys have found such species as central spotted sculpin, southern redbelly dace, marsh marigold, skunk cabbage and trillium. Hike the 2.25-mile trail (.25-mile wheelchair accessible trail to observation deck rated easy, 2-mile primitive extension trail rated moderate). Other activities include wildlife watching, volunteer opportunities (contact [email protected]). Open year-round, dawn to dusk.