Lake Haigler Nature Walk

The Lake Haigler Nature Walk is one of the most pawpular trails in Anne Springs Close Greenway. This 1.25-mile loop trail takes you along lovely Lake Haigler, and it features signs with tons of information about the flora and fauna along the trail. Pups are welcome to join you on this scenic and educational trail on-leash.

The trail begins at Anne Springs Close Greenway’s nature center, and parking is also available here. Be aware that there’s a $5 daily fee for non-members to use the greenway. Once you head onto the trail, one of the first sights you’ll pass is the Rush Pavilion—a huge 75-acre picnic pavilion with a stone fireplace and charcoal grills. This pavilion is a great place to have a snack with your dog before you start your hike!

After you pass the pavilion, you’ll reach Lake Haigler itself. As you walk in a loop around the lake, you’ll go over a land bridge that was built in 1993 as part of a pond restoration project. You’ll also walk through a beautiful hardwood forest filled with native trees and wildflowers, including sourwoods, tulips, Christmas ferns, and hickories. As you’re walking, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the many different species of wildlife that live in and around Lake Haigler, including beavers, great blue herons, wood ducks, and squirrels.

Near the end of your hike, you’ll pass an area of the forest that’s filled with trees that provide food for wildlife. This includes white oak trees, dogwood trees, and hazelnut trees. If you’re lucky, you may get to see some wildlife grabbing food from these trees.

Lake Haigler Nature Walk is a fun trail that’s great for anyone who wants to learn about nature. It’s also perfect for anyone who simply wants to go on a leisurely stroll around a beautiful lake! Be sure to bring some doggy bags and drinking water with you on your trek, and have a fun time hiking here with your furry best friend.