Join Doug Gray and Nicole O’Neal to go birding in Betley Woods at Glacier’s End. Participants can choose a 1-hour walk or a 3-hour hike.

During Black Birders Week (May 24-30), step into nature with a community that celebrates joy, curiosity, and deep connection with the outdoors. The week is dedicated to uplifting Black nature enthusiasts, with a theme of “Flyways & Freedom: Advocacy, Action, and the Future.” CILTI’s event is one of several local/regional events. All are welcome to come celebrate birding and create a safe and inclusive space to appreciate the natural world.

Cap off the week by birding with guides Doug Gray and Nicole O’Neal in Betley Woods at Glacier’s End. This stunning preserve offers safe harbor for countless species. There will be an option for a shorter birding walk on a flat trail, as well as a three-hour hike into the forest interior.

This is an opportunity to enjoy guided birding in one of our region’s most biodiverse places, while exploring themes of belonging, access, and Black representation in outdoor spaces. We’ll discuss what it truly means to break down barriers and create safe, inclusive spaces to enjoy nature together.

All Ages

Please RSVP so we know to expect you.

What to Expect:

• The longer Tanager Trail is approximately 2.5 miles on an unpaved loop trail that includes a few inclines, a bridge, and uneven terrain through a forested area. It will take about 3 hours to complete.
• The shorter Sparrow Trail is approximately one mile on a gravel loop trail through a wildflower prairie/tree planting and wooded area. It will take about one hour to complete and is ideal for slower and stationary birding.
• Guides will be present for both trail options.
• Binoculars will be available to borrow.
• Restroom: There will be a portalet on-site near the entrance/parking lot
• Parking is limited; carpooling is recommended.

What to Bring:

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear long, thick pants and socks to protect from brush, ticks, mosquitoes, and poison ivy.
• Wear closed-toed shoes that can withstand mud and uneven terrain.
• Bring a water bottle (or two); there is no water fountain onsite.
• Optional: A backpack or bag for extra water, clothing layers.
• Optional: a hiking stick or trekking poles for balance, if needed.
• Optional: sun and bug protection as needed.

Map:

Here is a map detailing how to get to our gathering place: Betley Woods at Glacier’s End.

More information:

Doug Gray is a nationally recognized birdwatcher who guides at major festivals across the country. He has served on the boards of the Bird Alliance of Central Indiana (formerly Amos Butler Audubon Society) in Indiana and the Black Swamp Bird Observatory in Ohio. He is also a Central Indiana Land Trust board member.

Nicole O’Neal has been a volunteer leader for Outdoor Afro’s Indianapolis network since 2025 and enjoys hiking, birding, and helping others discover their bird joy.

This program is presented in collaboration with Outdoor Afro Indy. Outdoor Afro celebrates and inspires Black connections and leadership in nature. This national not-for-profit organization reconnects Black people to our lands, water, and wildlife through outdoor education, recreation, and conservation.

For more Black Birders Week experiences, check out partner events at Conner Prairie.