Another beautiful fall day with lots of sunshine means a road trip for Sunny and me. We ventured to Columbia City, IN to explore the Evelyn and Wendall Dygert Nature Preserve. This is another Acres Land Trust site and the namesakes donated it in 2001. The land was part of their farm and according to the memorial rock at the start “they shared this peaceful place”. I am so appreciative of them and others who donate their land so we can also enjoy their “peaceful places”.
The preserve starts with a wide mowed grass trail from the parking lot to the memorial at the entrance of the woods. This part of the hike lasts about .4M and winds around a field which provides little to no protection from the sun. Since we prefer to actually be in the woods, this was our least favorite part of the hike.
After passing the sign and memorial at the entrance the fun part of the hike starts. The trail narrows considerably as you enter and becomes a one-person trail as it winds through the woods. Once in the woods beech, cherry, hickory, maple, and oak trees surround you. Although we crossed several wood platforms and bridges, there is no stream or creek running through the preserve. We saw one small pond from the trail covered with green so I was glad we could not get down to it.
The hike consists of one main trail that winds throughout the woods. The steep inclines and descents make it a more challenging hike than some other Acres Land Trust locations. We saw several “closed” signs so at one time there were some additional trails. We hiked nearly 2M with nearly half of it on the mowed grass trail leading to the woods. This hike is not recommended for those with stability or mobility issues due to the inclines, descents, and roots on the trail.
Our Rating
Sunny and I rate the Evelyn and Wendell Dygert Nature Preserve 3 out of 4 paws up. Although there is no water feature to get your toes wet, this preserve provides a lovely walk in the woods. The trail is fairly challenging with views of the trees and ravines which make it an interesting hike. We also love the sentiment on the rock at the start and the idea that before the public enjoyed this space, it was enjoyed by Evelyn and Wendell.
How do I get there?
The address of the nature preserve is 4245 N 50 W in Columbia City, IN. Take IN 9 north of Columbia City. Take County Road 500 N West for 2M then turn left onto N 50 W. After about .7M look for the white Acres Land Trust sign on the right. After parking, enter near the metal gate.
For more information check out the Acres Land Trust website.