Between work, activities, and home, life gets busy. Sometimes you would love to escape the city without going too far! If this is the case for you, I have the perfect solution, and you don't even have to leave city limits. Minutes from downtown is Lindenwood Nature Preserve. Operated by Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation, this 110-acre wooded park features 4 hiking trails of varying lengths (one is wheelchair and stroller accessible), a pond, and an open-air pavilion. 

Find More Trails on the Fort Wayne Outdoor Pass

Lindenwood Nature Preserve in Fort Wayne, Indiana

Everyone can enjoy a hike — whether you're a Fort Wayne resident or a visitor from out of town. Lindenwood's trails vary from .25 miles to 1 mile in length. The Trillium Trail is .5 miles, and is the most scenic trail in the spring with plenty of wildflowers along the way. The 1-mile Trail of Reflection is the only one that takes you to the pond, and is accessible up to the pond. If you're visiting in summer or fall, you won't want to miss the stunning views as the trees and foliage reflect off the pond. Sit, relax, and enjoy the view before continuing on. The other trails, Maple Spur (.25 miles) and Oak Paradise (.75 miles) allow hikers to enjoy the high-quality, mature oak-hickory forest.

Family on trail through the Lindenwood Nature PreserveWalking the Trail of Reflection at Lindenwood Nature Preserve


If you are not up for a hike, you can take in a picnic. Feel free to pick up a to-go meal at your favorite locally owned Fort Wayne restaurant or pack a picnic basket with your favorite foods from the store. Whether solo or with family and friends, you can eat yummy food in a great park under the pavilion. Minutes from Jefferson Pointe and Downtown Fort Wayne, Lindenwood Nature Preserve is a great place for a peaceful lunch during the day. 

If you are into photography, as an amateur or a professional, Lindenwood is the perfect photo spot. Try to capture great shots of the squirrels, rabbits, and deer roaming about the woods. If action shots are not your thing, take one of the beautiful wildflowers, mighty trees, and relaxing pond.

Whether you love hiking, photography, picnicking, or even just relaxing with a view, you and your guest will enjoy the preserve. Plus, they often have special events and guided hikes, so be sure to check the Calendar of Events to plan ahead. Plan a visit to Lindenwood Nature Preserve!

 

Open year-round from dawn to dusk. Admission is free!

600 Lindenwood Ave., Fort Wayne, IN 46808

 

This blog was originally published in 2015 and has been updated. Last Updated: April 2025