Burnett Woods Nature Preserve

Overview

Burnett Woods Nature Preserve offers a tranquil hike through mature woodlands in the midst of a largely developed area near Avon. Fall colors and spring wildflowers make this a seasonal destination spot, but its canopy is cooling even on the hottest days of summer.

You’ll find tall black walnut, beech, oak, hickory, sugar maple, and tulip poplar trees growing here, as well as diverse understory shrubs from pawpaw to spicebush.

Each spring many stunning wildflowers bloom on the forest floor, including wild geranium, woodland phlox, prairie trillium, and toad-shade trillium. Slow-moving streams flow westward through the property.

With two marked loop trails over level ground, this state-dedicated nature preserve is a great property to hike with young children.

History of the Property

A 1998 gift from Ruth Burnett enabled us to purchase Burnett Woods Nature Preserve and open it to visitors. Additional funding came from the Indiana Heritage Trust; Cinergy Corporation; and organizations, businesses, and individuals in the local community. It was the first public nature preserve in Hendricks County.

Planning your Visit

Parking is available at Light and Life Methodist Church, 8264 E. County Road 100 South, next door to the preserve. Park near the road and walk on the sidewalk to the trailhead, which is behind the preserve sign. Because of the parking situation, we request no visitation on Sunday mornings.