Worth Family Nature Preserve

Donated to the Parks’ by the heirs of Robert Worth, this unique natural area is a mosaic of floodplain, hardwood forest, pine plantation, managed prairie, and thickets. Trails through these varied habitats will lead you to the eastern boarder of the park – a stretch of scenic Greenville Creek that remains in its natural state, having never been dredged or channelized.

The meandering stream and diverse flora and fauna make Worth Family Nature Preserve an exceptional natural area to visit any time of year.

The trail head begins at the restored prairie. Indian Grass towers overhead, but you can still catch a glimpse of Tree Swallows darting and swooping to and from their nest boxes in the spring and summer months. Watch for Monarch and Red Admiral butterflies crossing your path in search of nectar sources.

The prairie gives way to a dense stand of 35-year old White Pine trees. This quiet, sheltered place is an ideal roosting area for Wild Turkeys and Great Horned Owls, who hide within the drooping boughs and branches.

Continue through the muffled quiet of the pines and enter a noisy thicket of wild Hawthorn and Crab Apple trees. The abundant fruits and seeds provided by these trees keep many animals active well into the winter months. A variety of bird species nest in this intermediate succession area, attracted by the protective thorns and ample food supply.

Walk down a gently sloping hill onto the flood plain, where Greenville Creek meanders and riffles under the shade of Sycamore trees. In spring, a colorful carpet of wildflowers blanket this low lying area. Sessile Trilliums, Wild Geraniums, Yellow Trout Lilies, Dutchmen’s Breeches, and Spring Beauties are just a few of the myriad of species you will discover and enjoy.

Total trail length: 1.2 miles

The trail passes through prairie and a 35 year old pine plantation. The trail passes through the flood plain of Greenville Creek.

The entrance to the parking lot is off Spring Hill Rd. (County Hwy 91), Union City, Ohio. It is about midway between the intersection of Spring Hill Rd. and Wasson Rd. to the north and the intersection of Spring Hill Rd. and Wagner Rd. to the south.

TRAIL MAP