In addition to providing more than 50 trail systems open dawn to dusk, ACRES offers a variety of hikes & events throughout our region, all year long.
ACRES events are held rain or shine, sleet or snow. We love sharing the natural world with you in all seasons.
The health and safety of our ACRES family is paramount, as is the public health of our communities.
Social distancing (keeping at least 6-feet of distance between individuals at all times) will be implemented at June events. PLEASE STAY HOME IF YOU FEEL ILL or have recently been exposed to someone with COVID-19
Please check this page or contact the ACRES office to check the status of an event:
260-637-2273
[email protected]
The ACRES office will be open in a limited capacity. Staff will be on hand to assist you from 9 am to 4 pm.
Maps and water will be left outside the door. If you’re stopping by to make a donation or purchase merchandise, please ring the doorbell and someone will come out to help you.
Thanks to member support, our trail systems remain open 7 days a week, from dawn to dusk, at no charge. It’s no secret that spending time in nature benefits us both physically and emotionally. Feeling cooped up and stressed out? Find fresh air, peace and renewal at an ACRES preserve near you.
Saturday, June 6, 10 am
KOSCIUSKO COUNTY | Wildwood
409 E SR 14, Silver Lake, IN 46982
Celebrate National Trails Day with a hike through the forests, wetlands, and prairie of this protected nature preserve. Share the Trails Hikes are free to the public, donations encouraged.
These casual, non‑interpretive, volunteer‑led hikes are easygoing social walks
Saturday, June 13, 5:30 am
WABASH COUNTY | Hanging Rock National Natural Landmark
4552 E. Hanging Rock Road, Lagro, IN 46941
Experience a rare opportunity to go off‑trail to the top of Hanging Rock with a few other ACRES members as the sun rises over the Wabash River. Perched 65’ above the river, Hanging Rock provides a spectacular panoramic view—a view enjoyed as far back as oral tradition extends. This short climb is moderately strenuous.
Space is limited. RSVP to [email protected] or 260-637-2273 by June 9.
Sunday, July 12, 1 pm
STEUBEN COUNTY | Robb Hidden Canyon
425 Lane 201, Ball Lake, Hamilton, IN 46742
Living up to its name, this protected property along Ball Lake includes “hidden” steep‑sided, forested ravines. Join us on a casual hike through forest and grassy meadow followed by a “treat yourself” stop for an ice cream sundae at the local Capt’n Pete’s Dairy Dock in Hamilton.
Saturday, July 18, 10 – 11:30 am
ALLEN COUNTY | Tom and Jane Dustin Nature Preserve
1802 Chapman Road, Huntertown, IN 46748
Are you new to ACRES? Welcome! Meet other new members and long‑time volunteers while learning how your membership protects land. Hear ACRES history, updates on new projects, and get answers to your questions: How do we acquire new land? How will we protect it forever?
Refreshments and light snacks provided.
Friday, July 24, 5 pm
DEKALB COUNTY | James P. Covell Nature Preserve
Approximately 2727 County Road 52, Auburn IN, 46706
On this casual hike, explore the forested banks of the Cedar Creek Corridor and learn about ACRES future restoration plans. After the hike, join us for a “treat yourself” stop for drinks at the local Auburn Brewing Company.
Saturday, July 25, 9 pm
ALLEN COUNTY | Fogwell Forest
9630 Whippoorwill Drive, Fort Wayne, IN 46809
Learn how and why fireflies light up the night! Make your way through the field and into the woods on this casual evening hike.
Presented by Jeff Ormiston, Environmental Educator for Allen County Parks and Rec.
Saturday, August 8, 2 pm
WABASH COUNTY | Hathaway Preserve at Ross Run
1866 E. Baumbauer Road, Wabash, IN 46992
This spectacular creek is off‑limits the rest of the year, so here’s your chance! Get up close and personal with minnows, pinching crayfish and fossils as you make your way through the cliffs and waterfalls of the Ross Run gorge. You’ll get wet, dirty—and inspired. Water shoes are recommended.
Presented by the Kissel family.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 6:30 – 8:30 PM
ALLEN COUNTY | Tom and Jane Dustin Nature Preserve, Dustin Barn
1802 Chapman Road, Huntertown, IN 46748 (entrance is east of the main drive)
ACRES celebrates a 60‑year anniversary by embarking on our first‑ever Capital Campaign! With a goal of improving efficiency and accessibility, we are working hard to raise funds. Join us at this benefit concert as we enjoy foot‑stompin’ tunes by The Goat’s Beards, a local duo wielding fiddle, banjo and guitar.
Tickets are $5 and can be purchased online above or by calling the ACRES office at 260-637-2273 by August 20.
Saturday, August 22, 10 am
WABASH COUNTY | Mary Thornton Nature Preserve
1541 E. 300 N., Wabash, IN 46992
Families are invited to a story‑time session along the forested trails of this protected nature preserve. Listen to readings from nature‑themed books and see plants (and possibly animals) firsthand! Drinks and a snack provided.
Hosted by the Kissel family and Andrews Librarian Nancy Disbro.
SUNDAY, AUGUST 23, 3:30 pm
WABASH COUNTY | Kokiwanee
5825 E. 50 S, Lagro, IN 46941
Join us on a summer hike through the bluffs and forested streams of this nature preserve. This fast‑paced hilly hike will total 4 miles, covering most of the trail system. Ample plant life awaits, and the possibility of seeing waterfalls and eagles too!
Space is limited. RSVP to [email protected] or 260-637-2273 by August 19.
In addition to our public hikes & events, we also offer guided hikes and presentations to private groups. From youth groups, to senior clubs, we’d love to share the trails and our story with you and your group!
Featured Preserve
Blue Cast Springs
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Heather DeLorenzo
