17th annual Spring Wildflower Walk at Burnett Woods
2025-04-12 10:00 - 12:00 UTC | Burnett Woods, 8264 E. County Road 100 South, Avon, IN, 46123, United States
Join our Stewardship team for a walk through the woods and an impressive wildflower display in the heart of Avon, Indiana.

Burnett Woods is one of the best nature preserves to enjoy spring wildflowers. Your guide will be stewardship specialist Phillip Weldy, whose keen eye for wildflowers has dressed up our social media feed for several years. We’ve recently added duckboard to the trails in hopes of enabling wet-weather nature walks.
All Ages
Free of Charge – RSVP Required
What to Expect and Bring:

Easy, 1.5-mile wildflower walk over a flat, loop trail.
Dress in long pants thick enough to stand up to thorns, brush, poison ivy, ticks, and mosquitos (unfortunately leggings aren’t very protective). Wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty.
Wear closed-toed shoes that can stand up to mud.
Athletic shoes may be too slippery on the duckboards, if wet.
Public restrooms are not available.
In case of inclement weather, check email for updates.

Directions:
Address is 8264 E County Road 100 S Avon, IN 46123. Parking is available at Light and Life Methodist Church, 8264 E. County Road 100 South, which is next door to the preserve. Park behind the church in the back row and walk in a southeastern direction across the grass toward the road. The trailhead is near the road, behind the preserve sign.

Garlic Mustard Erase-A-Thon at Meltzer Woods in Shelby County 4.15
2025-04-15 10:00 - 13:00 UTC | Meltzer Woods, 1522 S 600 E, Shelbyville, IN, 46176, United States
Help us welcome back native plants and wildlife by removing invasive garlic mustard from Meltzer Woods.

Support the health and resilience of the old growth forest by helping with invasive plant removal. Meltzer Woods is a National Natural Landmark and one of our most beloved preserves.
All Ages
Please RSVP so we know to expect you.
What to Expect and Bring:

Volunteers will remove plants by hand.
The terrain at this preserve is considered moderate.
Dress in long pants thick enough to stand up to thorns, brush, poison ivy, ticks, and mosquitos (unfortunately leggings aren’t very protective). Wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty.
Wear closed-toed shoes that can stand up to mud.
Bring gardening or work gloves. If you don’t have gloves, we will provide some.
Dress for the weather as we will work rain or shine.
Public restrooms are not available.
In case of inclement weather, check email for updates.

Directions:
Meltzer Woods is located near Shelbyville and is a short 35-minute drive from Indianapolis. From Indianapolis, take I74 E to IN 244 E, then turn left onto S 600 East. Staff will meet you in the parking lot. Map:@Meltzer Woods
Join us for other Garlic Mustard Erase-A-Thon Events at Meltzer:

April 8 Erase-A-Thon
April 15 Erase-A-Thon
April 22 Erase-A-Thon

More on Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata)
It is an invasive plant species that spreads into high-quality woodlands, upland and floodplain forests, not just into disturbed areas. Garlic mustard alters habitat suitability for native plants, insects, and thereby birds and mammals.
What else can I do?
After visiting an area that has invasive weeds present, clean up before you leave the site. Make sure your clothes, boots, vehicles, and pets are seed free. Use plants native to Central Indiana in your yard and garden.

Garlic Mustard Erase-A-Thon at Betley Woods in Johnson County 4.16
2025-04-16 10:00 - 13:00 UTC | Betley Woods at Glacier’s End, W 750 South, Trafalgar, IN, 46181, United States
Help us welcome back native plants and wildlife by removing invasive garlic mustard from Betley Woods at Glacier’s End.

Support the health and resilience of this beautiful preserve by helping with invasive plant removal. Betley Woods at Glacier’s End is located in one of the most biodiverse forested areas of the state.
All Ages
Please RSVP so we know to expect you.
What to Expect and Bring:

Volunteers will remove plants by hand.
The terrain at this preserve is considered moderate.
Dress in long pants thick enough to stand up to thorns, brush, poison ivy, ticks, and mosquitos (unfortunately leggings aren’t very protective). Wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty.
Wear closed-toed shoes that can stand up to mud.
Bring gardening or work gloves. If you don’t have gloves, we will provide some.
Dress for the weather as we will work rain or shine.
Public restrooms not available.
In case of inclement weather, check email for updates.

Location: Betley Woods at Glacier’s End
Address: 2864 County Road 750 S Trafalger, Indiana
More Garlic Mustard Erase-A-Thon events at Betley Woods:

Click for April 9
Click for April 16
Click for April 23

More on Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata)
It is an invasive plant species that spreads into high-quality woodlands, upland and floodplain forests, not just into disturbed areas. Garlic mustard alters habitat suitability for native plants, insects, and thereby birds and mammals.
What else can I do?
After visiting an area that has invasive weeds present, clean up before you leave the site. Make sure your clothes, boots, vehicles, and pets are seed free. Use plants native to Central Indiana in your yard and garden.

Garlic Mustard Erase-A-Thon at Meltzer Woods in Shelby County 4.22
2025-04-22 10:00 - 13:00 UTC | Meltzer Woods, 1522 S 600 E, Shelbyville, IN, 46176, United States

Garlic Mustard Erase-A-Thon at Betley Woods in Johnson County 4.23
2025-04-23 10:00 - 13:00 UTC | Betley Woods at Glacier’s End, W 750 South, Trafalgar, IN, 46181, United States

The 2025 City Nature Challenge
2025-04-25 - 2025-04-28 | IN
The 2025 City Nature Challenge is a community science event happening in over 600 cities across the world. Indianapolis (and environs) will be among the cities competing in this international event. Indiana Sciences is coordinating the local effort.
The four-day event asks community scientists to find and document as much urban nature as possible in their area. Explore your backyard, or expand into local playgrounds, parks, and nature preserves to look for plants, insects, and animals. Document your findings with a photo, and report them via the iNaturalist website or app. The goal is to develop a new baseline of a city’s biodiversity.
Find out more here.
RSVP
To register for the event, you must have an iNaturalist account. After logging in, click Join from the City Nature Challenge 2025: Indianapolis page.
Participating Counties
The following counties are included in the Indianapolis City Nature Challenge:

Boone County
Brown County
Hamilton County
Hancock County
Hendricks County
Johnson County
Madison County
Marion County
Morgan County
Putnam County
Shelby County

CILTI’s Involvement
We encourage everyone to visit our open nature preserves during this global event (April 25 to 28) and share your observations on iNaturalist.
Public preserves that fall within the geographic parameters include: Meltzer Woods, Nonie Werbe Krauss Nature Preserve, Oliver’s Woods, Fred and Dorothy Meyer Nature Preserve, the Laura Hare Preserve at Blossom Hollow, and more! Use our Preserves page to plan your visits.

Morning Walk with the Birds at Oliver's Woods - 5.6
2025-05-06 08:00 - 10:00 UTC | Oliver’s Woods, 8825 River Road, Indianapolis, United States
Join an expert birder to go birdwatching in Oliver’s Woods Nature Preserve!

Central Indiana Land Trust’s nature preserves offer a safe harbor for countless bird species. We’re teaming up with expert birder Wes Homoya, Field Ornithologist and Guide for Natural Selections Tours, for this series. This is a rare chance to enjoy guided birding tours of our region’s most biodiverse places. Join us in searching for migratory birds and year-round avian residents. We will likely train our binoculars on waterbirds, orioles, bluebirds, flycatchers, raptors, migratory warblers—and many more.
We’ll explore woodlands, meadows, streams, and river frontage managed by Central Indiana Land Trust.
All are welcome, including people with no birding experience. The best way to get started is to go with a seasoned guide like Wes.

All ages
RSVP required
What to Expect and Bring:

Easy, 0.6-mile hike over a flat, loop trail.
Scope or binoculars. We will have a small quantity to share with the group.
Dress in long pants thick enough to stand up to thorns, brush, poison ivy, ticks, and mosquitos (unfortunately leggings aren’t very protective).
Wear closed-toed shoes that can stand up to mud and clothes your don’t mind getting dirty.
No public restrooms available on site.
In case of inclement weather, check email for updates.

More Information:
Wes Homoya naturalselectionstours.com
Directions:
Oliver’s Woods is located at 8825 River Road Indianapolis, Indiana. Please park in the parking lot adjacent to I-465 and follow the trail to the discussion circle. Please plan to arrive on time.

Wildflower Walk at Oliver’s Woods with our White River Docents
2025-05-14 10:00 - 12:00 UTC | Oliver’s Woods, 8825 River Road, Indianapolis, United States
Walk Oliver’s Woods with our docents to see the preserve’s wildflowers in bloom.

Oliver’s Woods is home to many spring wildflowers, including an impressive display of native wild hyacinths. Enjoy a peaceful stroll through this riverine preserve to see what’s blooming in May.
Details:

Free of Charge – RSVP Required
All Ages Welcome

What to Expect and Bring:

An easy, 0.6-mile loop hike on flat terrain
Dress for the weather and be sure to wear pants thick enough to stand up to thorns, brush, poison ivy, ticks, and mosquitos (unfortunately leggings aren’t very protective).
Wear closed-toed shoes that can stand up to mud.
No public restrooms available on site.
In case of inclement weather, check email for updates.

Oliver’s Woods is located at 8825 River Road Indianapolis, Indiana. Please park in the parking lot adjacent to I-465 and meet staff on foot in front of the house.

Secrets for Great Wildflower Photos Using Your Smartphone by Emily Persic
2025-05-15 18:00 - 19:30 UTC | Oliver’s Woods, 8825 River Road, Indianapolis, United States
Join us for the Golden Hour Summer Series at Oliver’s Woods. In May, we’ll learn about wildflower photography.
Learn to capture wildflower images like a pro—using only your smartphone. The warm light of the Golden Hour is ideal for nature photography. Emily Persic of Raincliffs Photography will share secrets for getting that perfect closeup shot.

RSVP required for all attendees
What to Expect and Bring:

Make sure your cell phone is with you and charged.
Easy, 0.6-mile hike over a flat, loop trail.
Dress in long pants thick enough to stand up to thorns, brush, poison ivy, ticks, and mosquitos (unfortunately leggings aren’t very protective). Choose clothes you don’t mind getting dirty.
Wear closed-toed shoes that can stand up to mud.
In case of rain, we’ll have the class inside the Daugherty House.
Public restrooms not available.
In case of inclement weather, check email for updates.

Directions: Oliver’s Woods is located at 8825 River Road Indianapolis, Indiana. Please park in the parking lot adjacent to I-465 and follow the trail to the discussion circle. Please plan to arrive on time.
More information on Emily Persic and her work can be found at raincliffsphotography.com

Morning Walk with the Birds at White River Bluffs - 5.20
2025-05-20 08:00 - 10:00 UTC | White River Bluffs, 1050 West 52nd Street, Indianapolis, IN, 46228, United States
Join an expert birder to go birdwatching in White River Bluffs Nature Preserve!

Central Indiana Land Trust’s nature preserves offer a safe harbor for countless bird species. We’re teaming up with expert birder Wes Homoya, Field Ornithologist and Guide for Natural Selections Tours, for this series. This is a rare chance to enjoy guided birding tours of our region’s most biodiverse places. Join us in searching for migratory birds and year-round avian residents. We will likely train our binoculars on waterbirds, orioles, bluebirds, flycatchers, raptors, migratory warblers—and many more.
We’ll explore woodlands, meadows, streams, and river frontage managed by Central Indiana Land Trust.
All are welcome, including people with no birding experience. The best way to get started is to go with a seasoned guide like Wes.

All ages
RSVP required
What to Expect and Bring:

Easy, flat trail.
Scope or binoculars. We will have a small quantity to share with the group.
Dress in long pants thick enough to stand up to thorns, brush, poison ivy, ticks, and mosquitos (unfortunately leggings aren’t very protective).
Wear closed-toed shoes that can stand up to mud and clothes your don’t mind getting dirty.
No public restrooms available on site.
In case of inclement weather, check email for updates.

More Information:
Wes Homoya naturalselectionstours.com
Directions:
White River Bluffs Nature Preserve is located adjacent to Highland Golf and Country Club. Parking is by the tennis courts to the north of the club house. Our staff will meet you there.

Black Birders Week Hike
2025-05-31 09:00 - 11:00 (America/Halifax) | Betley Woods at Glacier’s End, W 750 South, Trafalgar, IN, 46181, United States
Join our board member, birder Doug Gray, and author/birder Dudley Edmondson, for a Black Birders Week outing at Betley Woods!

Black Birders Week is dedicated to uplifting Black nature enthusiasts while highlighting the visibility of Black birders in nature. We welcome those who identify as Black, allies, and anyone interested in an inclusive outdoor experience.
We’ll join Doug Gray and Dudley Edmondson to go birding in Betley Woods at Glacier’s End, a stunning preserve offering safe harbor for countless species. This is a rare chance to enjoy birding in one of our region’s most biodiverse places with two seasoned birders.

All Ages
Please RSVP so we know to expect you.
What to Expect and Bring:

This hike is considered moderate with a few inclines. The main trail is about 2.5 miles.
We will have some binoculars available.
Dress for the weather and be sure to wear pants thick enough to stand up to thorns, brush, poison ivy, ticks, and mosquitos (unfortunately leggings aren’t very protective).
Wear closed-toed shoes that can stand up to mud.
Bring a water bottle.

Map:
Here is a map detailing how to get to our gathering place: Betley Woods at Glacier’s End
More information:
Dudley Edmondson, author of People the Planet Needs Now, is a photographer, author, and filmmaker whose work has been featured in galleries and publications around the world. He collaborates with communities nationwide to help urban youth and youth of color to experience nature and the beauty of the outdoors.
Doug Gray is a nationally recognized birdwatcher who guides at major festivals across the country. He has served on the boards of the Amos Butler Audubon Society in Indiana and the Black Swamp Bird Observatory in Ohio. He is also a Central Indiana Land Trust board member.
For a full schedule of Black Birders Week experiences, check out partner events at Conner Prairie. We are proud to co-sponsor Dudley Edmondson’s community book discussion, and to host him for this special birding walk at Betley Woods.

Raptors Revealed with Take Flight Wildlife at Oliver's Woods
2025-06-25 18:00 - 19:30 UTC | Oliver’s Woods, 8825 River Road, Indianapolis, United States
Join us for a program featuring the birds of prey that live and hunt in our region.

Join Take Flight! Wildlife Education to meet several species of live raptors up close and learn about the amazing adaptations that make these birds so special! Raptors — hawks, owls, falcons and their kin — have long held our imagination. See what it’s like to be hawk-eyed or falcon-fast by meeting these magnificent predators up close and hearing the stories of our shared history.

All Ages
Free – RSVP Required
What to Expect and Bring:

Dress in long pants thick enough to stand up to thorns and brush (unfortunately leggings aren’t very protective).
Wear closed-toed shoes that can stand up to mud.
This event will take place outside, so please dress for the weather.

Directions:
Oliver’s Woods is located at 8825 River Road Indianapolis, Indiana. Please park in the parking lot adjacent to I-465 and meet staff on foot in front of the house.
More Information:
The program is brought to us by Take Flight! Wildlife Education, an organization offering traveling educational programs for schools, nature centers and other organizations interested in wildlife and ecology. Take Flight!

Indiana’s Amazing Amphibians & Reptiles, Featuring Jim Horton
2025-07-17 18:00 - 19:30 UTC | Oliver’s Woods, 8825 River Road, Indianapolis, United States
Join us for the Golden Hour Summer Series at Oliver’s Woods. In July, we’re featuring amphibians and reptiles.

** RSVPs open June 15 **
Join Jim Horton, president of the Hoosier Herpetological Society, to learn about Indiana’s many amphibians and reptiles. We will gather at the Daugherty House for a presentation and a live animal display. After the presentation, we’ll walk the woods to listen and search for reptiles and amphibians that live in the nature preserve.

All Ages

RSVP is required.

What to Expect and Bring:

If you have a headlamp, please bring it. We will have a few available to share with the group.

Dress for the weather and be sure to wear pants thick enough to stand up to thorns, brush, poison ivy, ticks, and mosquitos (unfortunately leggings aren’t very protective).

Wear closed-toed shoes that can stand up to mud.

Directions:
Oliver’s Woods is located at 8825 River Road Indianapolis, Indiana. Please park in the parking lot adjacent to I-465 and follow the trail to the discussion circle. Please plan to arrive on time.
More Information:
Jim Horton is president of the Hoosier Herpetological Society, a nonprofit dedicated to the conservation of all reptiles and amphibians.

CANCELLED: Second Annual Easy Float on the White River, with Intro to Forest Therapy
2025-08-01 08:00 - 13:00 UTC | Oliver’s Woods, 8825 River Road, Indianapolis, United States
This event has been cancelled due to high river levels.

Board a Friends of White River raft for a short float on the White River, then enjoy mindful forest therapy practices on Sandbar Island.
Join Central Indiana Land Trust and Friends of White River (FOWR) for a scenic journey on the White River. Take a short paddle from the Oliver’s Woods canoe launch to Sandbar Island (located behind Clearwater properties) and back, taking in the natural beauty along the way. Upon reaching Sandbar Island, enjoy an hour-long forest therapy session led by Michelle Morton, a certified Forest Therapy guide. There will also be roughly a half hour of free time to relax and investigate the island before returning to Oliver’s Woods.
Whether you’re an experienced paddler or a beginner, this trip promises to be a memorable experience for all. Don’t miss this firsthand look at one of Central Indiana’s key waterways, the White River, paired with the research-based practice of forest therapy.

PLEASE READ BELOW BEFORE RESERVING A SPOT.
What to Expect and Bring:

This event is appropriate for adults and children over the age of 14 with parent or legal guardian.
Plan to arrive at 8:00 so training can start promptly at 8:30 to get familiar with the boats and the river.
All safety equipment and floats will be supplied by FOWR.
Wear waterproof sun protection.
Bring a water bottle.
Wear closed-toed shoes that can stand up to mud.
Don’t plan to bring electronic equipment or phones unless they’re protected from the water. CILTI or FOWR will not be responsible for damaged equipment.
Refund requests will be accepted only up to 72 hours before the event starts. Eventbrite fees are non-refundable. We encourage you to review your plans before reserving your spot.
Please note that payment for this event is not a donation and is not tax deductible.
In case of inclement weather, check email for updates.

Directions:
Oliver’s Woods is located at 8825 River Road Indianapolis, Indiana. Please park in the parking lot adjacent to I-465 and meet staff on foot in front of the house.
Refund Policy:
Refunds up to 3 days before event
About Forest Therapy:
Forest Therapy (also known as forest bathing or nature therapy) is a practice of taking slow walks in natural spaces. This research-based framework supports healing and wellness through immersion in forests and other natural environments.

Creek Cleanup at Oliver's Woods
2025-08-13 10:00 - 12:00 UTC | Oliver’s Woods, 8825 River Road, Indianapolis, United States
Help us clear debris and invasive plants in and around Carmel Creek at Oliver’s Woods.
All Ages
Please RSVP so we know to expect you.

What to Expect and Bring

Be prepared to get dirty and in some cases wet.
We will pull invasive plants out by hand.
Dress in long pants thick enough to stand up to thorns, brush, poison ivy, ticks, and mosquitos (unfortunately leggings aren’t very protective).
Wear closed-toed shoes that can stand up to mud and clothes you don’t mind getting dirty.
Dress for the weather as we will work rain or shine.

Directions
Oliver’s Woods is located at 8825 River Road Indianapolis, Indiana. Please park in the parking lot adjacent to I-465 and meet staff on foot in front of the house.

Homoyas' Hoosier Orchid Big Year
2025-08-21 18:00 - 19:00 UTC | Oliver’s Woods, 8825 River Road, Indianapolis, United States
Join us in August at Oliver’s Woods for Golden Hour as the Homoyas share how they found all 40 orchids native to Indiana in bloom.

** RSVPs open July 15 **
During the spring and summer months of 2021, the Homoya family embarked on an ambitious quest to track down every extant type of orchid in our beloved state. They were seeking 40 distinct native taxa (plus 1 introduced species), which they ultimately found. In addition to creating shared memories to last a lifetime, the Homoyas contributed data on rarities they found to the Indiana Natural Heritage Program of the DNR Division of Nature Preserves. They’ve been invited to present their findings at the 2026 World Orchid Conference in Dresden, Germany.
Our presenters are a family devoted to conservation and nature: Barb (Florathon Chair for the Indiana Native Plant Society), Wes (Field Ornithologist and Guide for Natural Selection Tours), and Mike (author and retired IDNR Nature Preserves Botanist). As the tale of their journey unfolds, you will be transported through time and space, into bogs and prairies, fens and forests, and in the end, to a place of wonder that inspires you and increases your appreciation for Indiana’s orchids and their diverse habitats.
RSVP required for all attendees
This presentation will take place inside the Daugherty House at Oliver’s Woods.
Directions: Oliver’s Woods is located at 8825 River Road Indianapolis, Indiana. Please park in the parking lot adjacent to I-465 and follow the trail to the house. Please plan to arrive on time.
More Information:
INPS Florathon Event
Natural Selection Tours

The Owl Hour: Nature's Nocturnal Hunters with Take Flight! Wildlife
2025-09-18 18:00 - 19:30 UTC | Oliver’s Woods, 8825 River Road, Indianapolis, United States
** RSVPs Open August 15 **
Join Mark Booth from Take Flight! Wildlife Education to meet several species of live owls up close and learn about these remarkable birds.

All Ages

RSVP is required. The event is limited to 25 people, including children over 2 years old.

Tickets are limited to 4 per reservation.

What to Expect and Bring:

Dress for the weather and be sure to wear pants thick enough to stand up to thorns, brush, poison ivy, ticks, and mosquitos (unfortunately leggings aren’t very protective).
Wear closed-toed shoes that can stand up to mud.
This presentation will take place outside in the discussion circle. In case of inclement weather, we will move the presentation inside the Daugherty House.

Directions:
Oliver’s Woods is located at 8825 River Road Indianapolis, Indiana. Please park in the parking lot adjacent to I-465 and follow the trail to the discussion circle. Please plan to arrive on time.
More Information:
The program is brought to us by Take Flight! Wildlife Education, an organization offering traveling educational programs for schools, nature centers and other organizations interested in wildlife and ecology. Take Flight!

A Reading of “Camping with Henry and Tom” in Oliver’s Woods
2025-09-24 18:00 - 19:30 UTC | Oliver’s Woods, 8825 River Road, Indianapolis, United States
Enjoy a humorous reading of the play, “Camping with Henry and Tom,” by Mark St. Germain.

President Harding longs to sneak away with his mistress. Industrialist Henry Ford dreams of the White House. Inventor Thomas Edison can’t quite believe he’s stranded in the woods with them both.
Join us for a play reading in the woods featuring three of the 20th century’s greatest minds. Based on a real-life camping trip shared by these historic figures, this Off-Broadway comedy offers a wildly funny adventure with insights that still resonate today.
Fact: In 1921, Henry Ford, Thomas Edison, and President Warren G. Harding took a camping trip together. Their stated goal: Escape civilization. Fiction: Imagine if one of them had an ulterior motive. With that as a starting point, “Camping with Henry and Tom” uses a literal collision with nature to expose truths about each man, his sense of himself, and his vision of America.
For this one-time-only event, CILTI and SiteLines Indy partner to present a reading of “Camping with Henry and Tom” featuring local actors in the best possible setting: the great outdoors.
The reading will take place at the discussion circle. In case of rain, we will move indoors.
All Ages
Free of Charge – RSVP Required
What to Expect and Bring:

There will be bugs. Dress in protective clothing and apply your favorite bug deterent. Bug spray will be available.
Discussion circle provides cement seating, so some people may want to bring a cushion.
No restroom availability.

Registration:
Please preregister so we know to expect you.
Directions:
Oliver’s Woods is located at 8825 River Road Indianapolis, Indiana. Please park in the parking lot adjacent to I-465 and meet staff on foot at the discussion circle behind the house.

Monarch Tagging with Indiana Wildlife Federation
2025-09-27 18:00 - 19:30 UTC | Betley Woods at Glacier’s End, W 750 South, Trafalgar, IN, 46181, United States
Join CILTI staff and Indiana Wildlife Federation for a hands-on community science event at Betley Woods at Glacier’s End to help document the monarchs’ fall migration.

The Monarch Watch Tagging Program is a large-scale community science project that was initiated in 1992 to help understand the dynamics of the monarch’s spectacular fall migration through mark and recapture.
At this event, staff will train attendees to gently capture monarch butterflies in butterfly nets and affix a small numbered sticker to the hindwing. The international monarch monitoring program called Monarch Watch provides stickers and datasheets for this project.
This event is brought to you in partnership with Indiana Wildlife Federation.
All Ages
Free – RSVP Required
What to Expect and Bring:

Based on where we locate the butterflies, there may be a lot of walking required.
Dress in long pants thick enough to stand up to thorns, brush, poison ivy, ticks, and mosquitos (unfortunately leggings aren’t very protective).
Wear closed-toed shoes that can stand up to mud.
In order to ensure the safety of the butterflies, the event will not take place in the rain.
There are no restrooms onsite.

Registration:
Please preregister so we know to expect you.
Directions:
Click for BetleyWoodsMap

October Big Day Hike at Betley Woods and More
2025-10-11 09:00 - 11:00 UTC | Betley Woods at Glacier’s End, W 750 South, Trafalgar, IN, 46181, United States
Join an expert birder to go birdwatching in Betley Woods at Glacier’s End!
Betley Woods is a hotspot for migratory birds on the Mississippi Flyway. You can witness this timeless journey with an experienced birder this fall! On one Big Day in October, experience the wonder of the fall migration with an expert guide, Mike Clay.
Multiple sites are taking part in this Big Day, so spread the word across the state!
All ages
RSVP required (please RSVP for your preferred site)
What to Expect and Bring:

Camera, scope, and/or binoculars, if you have them.
Trails are considered moderate and might not be suitable for all hikers.
Dress for the weather and be sure to wear pants thick enough to stand up to thorns, brush, poison ivy, ticks, and mosquitos (unfortunately leggings aren’t very protective).
Wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty and closed-toed shoes that can stand up to mud.
No restrooms available on site.

RSVP
Please click here to preregister via Eventbrite so we know to expect you.
Location:
Betley Woods is located on County Road 750 South in Trafalgar, IN. Use this map to navigate to the site.
Trail development was made possible thanks to the generosity of the Johnson County Community Foundation and the state’s Next Level Trails program, in partnership with the Indiana Wildlife Federation.
More Information:
October Big Day is a global event that unites people worldwide in a shared passion for birds, sparking a movement to observe, celebrate, and protect our feathered friends. Founded by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, this 24-hour event challenges bird enthusiasts to spot as many species as possible, generating vital data on bird migration and inspiring a deeper appreciation for both resident and migratory species.
Indiana Audubon and Indiana Land Protection Alliance (ILPA) are partnering for the fourth consecutive year to bring you the October Big Day Hikes at 18 unique locations across Indiana, showcasing the state’s incredible range of habitats and biodiverse hotspots. Space is limited to ensure a personalized experience for each participant, so sign up soon!

Remember the Passenger Pigeon, Presented by CILTI President Cliff Chapman
2025-10-16 18:00 - 19:30 UTC | Oliver’s Woods, 8825 River Road, Indianapolis, United States
Join us for the Golden Hour at Oliver’s Woods. In October, we’ll learn how the most abundant bird in the world shaped our landscape.

** RSVPs open September 15 **

What was it like to witness the migration of flocks numbering in the millions? What was left behind in their wake? CILTI President Cliff Chapman brings his passion for “the blue meteor,” Ectopistes migratorius, to this evening at Oliver’s Woods. More commonly known as the passenger pigeon, this bird once darkened Indiana skies in incomprehensible numbers. Go beyond the story of their extinction to learn the ways their presence—and later absence—likely shaped Indiana’s landscapes.
We’ll begin with an immersive experience at the discussion circle as the sun begins to set. Then we’ll move into the Daugherty House for an audiovisual presentation. The evening is sure to evoke both a sense of wonder and a deeper understanding of the ecological impact of these iconic birds.

All Ages

RSVP is required, including children over 2 years old.

Tickets are limited to 4 per reservation.

What to Expect and Bring:

Dress for the weather and be sure to wear pants thick enough to stand up to thorns, brush, poison ivy, ticks, and mosquitos (unfortunately leggings aren’t very protective).

Wear closed-toed shoes that can stand up to mud.

Directions:
Oliver’s Woods is located at 8825 River Road Indianapolis, Indiana. Please park in the parking lot adjacent to I-465 and follow the trail to the discussion circle. Please plan to arrive on time.
More Information:
Passenger pigeon remains were found at Oliver’s Woods during an archeological dig in the 1960s. Read more here.

Hike into Autumn at Meltzer Woods
2025-10-25 10:00 - 12:00 UTC | Meltzer Woods, 1522 S 600 E, Shelbyville, IN, 46176, United States
Join us for a nature walk through the old growth forest of Meltzer Woods.

Step into the season with a guided hike through the beauty of autumn. As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, the old growth forest bursts into vibrant fall colors. Enjoy the sights, sounds, and scents of nature preparing for winter, and discover the unique changes that make this time of year so special. This autumn walk offers a perfect way to connect with the season.
Please RSVP so we know to expect you.
What to Expect and Bring:
• This is an easy, 1.2 mile trail with steps to get over bridges.
• Dress for the weather and be sure to wear pants thick enough to stand up to thorns, brush, poison ivy, ticks, and mosquitos (unfortunately leggings aren’t very protective).
• Wear closed-toed shoes that can stand up to mud.
• Bring a water bottle, preferably refillable.
• Restroom facilities are not available on site.
Directions:
Meltzer Woods is located near Shelbyville and is a short 35 minute drive from Indianapolis. From Indianapolis, take I74 E to IN 244 E, then turn left onto S 600 East. Staff will meet you in the parking lot.

Black Friday Hike at Portland Arch, a National Natural Landmark
2025-11-28 11:00 - 13:00 UTC | Portland Arch Nature Preserve, 1599 West Scout Camp Road, Covington, IN, 47932, United States
“Opt outside” on the day after Thanksgiving: Join our President for a guided hike through a stunning nature preserve.

Once again on Black Friday, we’ll host our popular Thanksgiving weekend hike. This year we are heading to Portland Arch Nature Preserve in Fountain County (west central Indiana).
Explore the wooded valleys, ravines, and rocky cliffs marked by Bear Creek and Spring Creek. The 435-acre preserve features stunning terrain, including a natural sandstone bridge carved by water. Portland Arch is one of only a few natural arches in our state. You’ll have the chance to see it up close, as well as the plant community supported by this unique terrain.
The Indiana Department of Natural Resources owns this state-dedicated preserve, which is also a National Natural Landmark.

All Ages
Please RSVP so we know to expect you.

What to Expect and Bring:

The trail will be rugged and steep in some areas, and possibly muddy.
Part of the trail has a wooden staircase; steps may be slippery.
Dress for the weather and be sure to wear pants thick enough to stand up to thorns, brush, poison ivy, ticks, and the cold (unfortunately leggings aren’t very protective).
Wear closed-toed shoes that can stand up to mud.
Bring a water bottle, preferably refillable.
There are no public restrooms on site.

Directions:
Portland Arch Nature Preserve (North Trail)
1599 W Scout Camp Rd, Covington, IN 47932
From Attica go south on US 41 for about 5 miles and then west on CR 650N. Once in Fountain, follow signs to the preserve. Park in the first of two parking lots, where the trail leads to the arch.

CANCELED - Winter Tree ID Hike at Oliver's Woods
2026-01-24 10:00 - 11:30 UTC | Oliver’s Woods, 8825 River Road, Indianapolis, United States
Update: Due to extreme cold in the forecast, we are canceling this event.

Learn how to distinguish tree species in a winter landscape.

Trees that shed their leaves have a beauty all their own. Volunteer White River Docents, along with our stewardship specialist Phillip Weldy, will lead the walk through this riverine nature preserve. Situated along the White River, Oliver’s Woods Nature Preserve offers a nature immersion in the midst of a bustling commercial district.
All Ages
What to Expect and Bring

Easy, 0.6-mile hike over a flat, loop trail.
Feel free to bring your own binoculars or scope for potential bird viewing.
Dress for the weather, as we will be outside the entire event.
No restroom is available at this site.

Directions
Oliver’s Woods is located at 8825 River Road Indianapolis, Indiana. Please park in the parking lot adjacent to I-465 and meet staff on foot in front of the house.

18th annual Spring Wildflower Walk at Burnett Woods
2026-04-11 10:00 - 12:00 UTC | Burnett Woods, 8264 E. County Road 100 South, Avon, IN, 46123, United States
Join our stewardship manager for a walk through the woods and a lovely wildflower display in the heart of Avon, Indiana.

Burnett Woods is one of the best nature preserves to enjoy spring wildflowers. Your guide will be stewardship manager Phillip Weldy, who has helped manage the site for seven years.
All Ages
Free of Charge – RSVP Required
What to Expect and Bring:

Easy, 1.5-mile wildflower walk over a flat, loop trail.
Dress in long pants thick enough to stand up to thorns, brush, poison ivy, ticks, and mosquitos.
Wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty and closed-toed shoes that can stand up to mud.
Athletic shoes may be slippery on the duckboards in wet conditions.
Public restrooms are not available.
In case of inclement weather, check email for updates.

Directions:
Address is 8264 E County Road 100 S Avon, IN 46123. Parking is available at Light and Life Methodist Church, 8264 E. County Road 100 South, which is next door to the preserve. Park behind the church in the back row and walk in a southeastern direction across the grass toward the road. The trailhead is near the road, behind the preserve sign.

Garlic Mustard Pull at Meltzer Woods in Shelby County 4.15
2026-04-15 10:00 - 13:00 UTC | Meltzer Woods, 1522 S 600 E, Shelbyville, IN, 46176, United States
Help us welcome back native plants and wildlife by removing invasive garlic mustard from Meltzer Woods.

Support the health and resilience of the old growth forest by helping with invasive plant removal. Meltzer Woods is a National Natural Landmark and one of our most beloved preserves.
All Ages
Please RSVP so we know to expect you.
What to Expect and Bring:

Volunteers will remove plants by hand.
Dress in long pants thick enough to stand up to thorns, brush, poison ivy, ticks, and mosquitos. Wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty.
Wear closed-toed shoes that can stand up to mud.
Athletic shoes may be too slippery on the duckboards.
Bring gardening or work gloves. If you don’t have gloves, we will provide some.
Dress for the weather as we will work rain or shine.
Public restrooms not available.
In case of inclement weather, check email for updates.

Directions:
Meltzer Woods is located near Shelbyville and is a short 35-minute drive from Indianapolis. From Indianapolis, take I74 E to IN 244 E, then turn left onto S 600 East. Staff will meet you in the parking lot. Map:@Meltzer Woods
More Garlic Mustard Pulls at Meltzer Woods:

Click for April 22
Click for April 29

More on Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata)
This invasive plant species spreads into high-quality woodlands, upland and floodplain forests, not just into disturbed areas. Garlic mustard alters habitat suitability for native plants, insects, and thereby birds and mammals.
What else can I do?
After visiting an area that has invasive weeds present, clean up before you leave the site. Make sure your clothes, boots, vehicles, and pets are seed free. Use plants native to Central Indiana in your yard and garden.

Garlic Mustard Pull at Meltzer Woods in Shelby County 4.22
2026-04-22 10:00 - 13:00 UTC | Meltzer Woods, 1522 S 600 E, Shelbyville, IN, 46176, United States
Help us welcome back native plants and wildlife by removing invasive garlic mustard from Meltzer Woods.

Spend part of your Earth Day supporting the health and resilience of the old growth forest by helping with invasive plant removal. Meltzer Woods is a National Natural Landmark and one of our most beloved preserves.
All Ages
Please RSVP so we know to expect you.
What to Expect and Bring:

Volunteers will remove plants by hand.
Dress in long pants thick enough to stand up to thorns, brush, poison ivy, ticks, and mosquitos. Wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty.
Wear closed-toed shoes that can stand up to mud.
Athletic shoes may be too slippery on the duckboards.
Bring gardening or work gloves. If you don’t have gloves, we will provide some.
Dress for the weather as we will work rain or shine.
Public restrooms not available.
In case of inclement weather, check email for updates.

Directions:
Meltzer Woods is located near Shelbyville and is a short 35-minute drive from Indianapolis. From Indianapolis, take I74 E to IN 244 E, then turn left onto S 600 East. Staff will meet you in the parking lot. Map:@Meltzer Woods
More Garlic Mustard Pulls at Meltzer Woods:

Click for April 15
Click for April 29

More on Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata)
This invasive plant species spreads into high-quality woodlands, upland and floodplain forests, not just into disturbed areas. Garlic mustard alters habitat suitability for native plants, insects, and thereby birds and mammals.
What else can I do?
After visiting an area that has invasive weeds present, clean up before you leave the site. Make sure your clothes, boots, vehicles, and pets are seed free. Use plants native to Central Indiana in your yard and garden.

Garlic Mustard Pull at Meltzer Woods in Shelby County 4.29
2026-04-29 10:00 - 13:00 UTC | Meltzer Woods, 1522 S 600 E, Shelbyville, IN, 46176, United States
Help us welcome back native plants and wildlife by removing invasive garlic mustard from Meltzer Woods.

Support the health and resilience of the old growth forest by helping with invasive plant removal. Meltzer Woods is a National Natural Landmark and one of our most beloved preserves.
All Ages
Please RSVP so we know to expect you.
What to Expect and Bring:

Volunteers will remove plants by hand.
Dress in long pants thick enough to stand up to thorns, brush, poison ivy, ticks, and mosquitos. Wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty.
Wear closed-toed shoes that can stand up to mud.
Athletic shoes may be too slippery on the duckboards.
Bring gardening or work gloves. If you don’t have gloves, we will provide some.
Dress for the weather as we will work rain or shine.
Public restrooms not available.
In case of inclement weather, check email for updates.

Directions:
Meltzer Woods is located near Shelbyville and is a short 35-minute drive from Indianapolis. From Indianapolis, take I74 E to IN 244 E, then turn left onto S 600 East. Staff will meet you in the parking lot. Map:@Meltzer Woods
More Garlic Mustard Pulls at Meltzer Woods:

Click for April 15
Click for April 22

More on Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata)
This invasive plant species spreads into high-quality woodlands, upland and floodplain forests, not just into disturbed areas. Garlic mustard alters habitat suitability for native plants, insects, and thereby birds and mammals.
What else can I do?
After visiting an area that has invasive weeds present, clean up before you leave the site. Make sure your clothes, boots, vehicles, and pets are seed free. Use plants native to Central Indiana in your yard and garden.

Discover Native Bees with Max
2026-05-21 18:00 - 19:30 (America/Indiana/Indianapolis) | Oliver’s Woods, 8825 River Road, Indianapolis, United States
Join us for the Golden Hour Summer Series at Oliver’s Woods. In May, we’ll discover the hidden world of native bees with Central Indiana Land Trust staff member Max Gerke. These tiny but vital creatures are all around us—even in our own back yards!
Event Highlights:

Start at the discussion circle with a preview of bee specimens and a quick guide on what to look for.
Take a short walk through Oliver’s Woods to observe native bees pollinating flowers in action.
Meet some common native bees.
Learn about bees’ lifecycles and how you can support them.

By the end, you’ll bee buzzing with excitement about the tiny pollinators in your yard and local natural areas!
Details:

Ages: All are welcome.
RSVP: Required for attendees over age 2. Limited to 25 people.
Tickets: Maximum 4 per RSVP. Reserve your spot here.
Once our RSVP limit is reached the form will close. If you are interested in being added to our wait list please reach out to sfox@conservingindiana.org.

What to Expect:

The program begins at the discussion circle, followed by a walk through the wooded preserve, before returning to the discussion circle.
In case of inclement weather, the presentation will take place inside the Daugherty House.
Park in the lot adjacent to I-465 and follow the trail to the discussion circle.
Trails are unpaved but fairly level.
Accessible parking is available by the Daugherty House, with access to a crushed gravel trail.
There are no public restrooms on site.

What to Bring:

Dress for the weather and wear closed-toe shoes suitable for mud.
Optional: Bring sun and insect protection, and a water bottle.

About Max:
Max is a pollinator enthusiast with a passion for Indiana’s native bees and their role in pollinating native flowers. As a stewardship specialist, he conducts surveys on our properties to study bee diversity and identify rare species. He recently presented at the Indiana Wildlife Federation annual meeting on the impact of native pollinators.
Location: Oliver’s Woods, 8825 River Road, Indianapolis, Indiana.

An introduction to FrogWatch
2026-06-18 18:00 - 19:30 (America/Indiana/Indianapolis) | Oliver’s Woods, 8825 River Road, Indianapolis, United States
Join us for the Golden Hour Summer Series at Oliver’s Woods. In June, we’ll take a look into the protocols, methods, and facts about Frogwatch USA. Jim Horton of Central Indiana FrogWatch will be our guide to this program, sharing his knowledge of local frogs and toads.

Event Highlights:

Start in the Daugherty House for the presentation
Possible visits with live frogs and/or toads during the presentation
Short walk to listen for local frog and toad calls

Details:

Ages: All are welcome.
RSVP: Required for attendees over age 2. Limited to 25 people.
Tickets: Maximum 4 per RSVP. Reserve your spot here.
Once our RSVP limit is reached, the form will close. If you are interested in being added to our wait list, please reach out to sfox@conservingindiana.org.

What to Expect:

The program begins inside the Daugherty house, and we will take a short walk afterward to listen for any possible frog and toad calls.
Park in the lot adjacent to I-465 and follow the trail to the discussion circle.
Trails are unpaved but fairly level.
Accessible parking is available by the Daugherty House, with access to a crushed gravel trail.
There are no public restrooms on site.

What to Bring:

Dress for the weather and wear closed-toe shoes suitable for mud.
Optional: Bring sun and insect protection, and a water bottle.

About Jim:
Jim Horton is a lifelong nature enthusiast who currently is co-coordinator of the Central Indiana FrogWatch chapter. He has served on the board of the Hoosier Herpetological Society for 19 years and currently serves as president. Jim also is editor of the monthly newsletter, the Monitor. He gives presentations on Indiana herpetology throughout the state.
Jim and his wife, Pam own Indiana Jim’s Reptile Experience, a wildlife education program. His passion goes beyond amphibians and reptiles. He is also active in the Indiana Native Plant Society and is on the steering committee for the Boone County Invasive Cooperative. He serves as a CILTI site steward at Browning Marsh.
In his free time, he enjoys photography, music, camping, kayaking, botany, ornithology, entomology, and anything nature-related.
Location: Oliver’s Woods, 8825 River Road, Indianapolis, Indiana.
