Dustin, Johnson and Whitehurst Preserve Loop

The loop is approximately 0.8 kilometers (0.5 miles) long and generally takes about 13 minutes to complete. This duration can vary depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

Yes, the trail is considered easy to moderate, making it suitable for beginners and those looking for a relaxed hike. There's also a 1/3-mile accessible trail near the ACRES office.

The preserve is located in Huntertown, Indiana. While specific parking details aren't provided, access is typically near the ACRES Land Trust office, which is situated within the preserve.

The loop trail offers diverse scenery, winding through open meadows and dense woodlands. You'll encounter a wetland, especially vibrant in springtime, and a significant portion follows a bluff 80 feet above Cedar Creek, providing picturesque views of this designated Indiana Natural, Scenic, and Recreational River.

The preserve is a critical habitat for various wildlife. Keep an eye out for river otters and bald eagles, which are known to inhabit the area. In springtime, the wetland is also home to spring peepers.

Spring is particularly vibrant, with the wetland showcasing horned bladderwort and the calls of spring peepers. However, the diverse landscape makes it enjoyable throughout the year, offering different experiences with each season.

Yes, a significant feature is the southwest portion of the trail, which follows a bluff 80 feet above Cedar Creek, offering scenic views. The ACRES Land Trust office, located within the preserve, is also a historical landmark, as it was originally the home of Tom and Jane Dustin, two of the organization's founding members.

The trail research does not explicitly state whether dogs are allowed. It's best to check with the ACRES Land Trust directly for their specific pet policies before visiting.

The provided information does not mention any permits or entrance fees for the Dustin, Johnson and Whitehurst Preserve Loop. Preserves managed by land trusts often rely on donations for upkeep, but typically do not charge an entrance fee.

Given its 'easy to moderate' difficulty and diverse natural scenery, the trail is generally suitable for families. There is also a 1/3-mile accessible trail with an observation deck, which is great for strollers and younger children.

Yes, there is a 1/3-mile accessible trail made of crushed, packed limestone near the ACRES office. This section is suitable for wheelchairs, walkers, strollers, and other mobility devices, and includes an accessible observation deck overlooking a ravine.