Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve

Why You Should Visit 
Amidst the fast-growing community of  Fishers is an area blooming with biodiversity. Ritchey Woods is a quick trip for those living in or around the Indy area wanting to stretch their legs and enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors.

Location
Hamilton County

Ecoregion
North Central Tillplain

Size
127 Acres

Dedicated
State Nature Preserve, 1983

Owned & Managed By
The Town of Fishers

Partners
Children's Museum of Indianapolis & Division of Nature Preserves

How to Prepare for Your Visit
The easy terrain and developed trails are great for self-guided tours. Guided hikes and hands-on programs are also available for children, families, scout groups and school field trips.

Directions
From Indianapolis, travel north on I - 69 to 96th Street. Turn left (west) on 96th Street to Hague Road and turn right (north). Continue approximately 1.5 miles to the preserve on the left side of the road.  

What to See: Plants and Animals
The canopy is largely created by sugar maple and red oak though stands of green ash, Ohio buckeye and American elm can be found bordering Cheeney Creek. In the wetland area of the preserve, skunk cabbage is the dominated species though a variety of plants and wildflowers - like the wild bergamot - can also be found.

Conservation Concerns   
Surrounded by residential areas, corporations and an airport the Ritchey Woods was purchased in order to save and protect the biodiversity found at the site. Due to these factors, pollution, runoff and resultant erosion are large threats to the ecosystems the make up the preserve.

For More Information  
Fisher Parks - Ritchey Woods