A fen has rich peat soils fed by underground water and run off. Fens provide important benefits to the watershed, such as filtering run off. A fen is different than a bog. A bog is filled from rainfall and run off and has more acidic soils, whereas a fen is feed by underground water sources, typically higher in calcium, so it is less acidic. A fen can support more diverse plant and animal communities.

This perimeter trail around the fen travels over that rich peat soil.  Areas could be wet, but the very nature of the fen. Because peat is a soft and easily compressible substrate, your shoes and pants may also get black from peat on this trail. However, the trail offers an up-close look at some of the best birding in the region.

This trail is not-recommended for dog walking.