Join outstanding birder and hike leader, Jonathan Bontrager, for a pre-grand opening opportunity to explore the Carpenter Nature Preserve in Zionsville, IN. The preserve, which was formerly Wolf Run Golf Course, is a 215-acre area that has been a project between the mayor of Zionsville, Jim and Nancy Carpenter of Wild Birds Unlimited, and the Zionsville Parks and Recreation Department. It is designed to be a sanctuary for wildlife that includes enhanced wetlands, woodlands, and prairies. Eagle Creek runs along the eastern portion of the park and should be a nice riparian habitat.

Amos Butler Audubon Society has been given special permission to visit the park before it opens up, so we are asked to stay in areas that they deem safe. However, it is close to completion so many of the trails and boardwalks should be completed.

The hike is on Saturday, May 2 and will run from 8:00 am to 11:00 am. The address for the park is 601 S. 900 East, Zionsville, IN 46077. There should be a Park Monument sign to direct you to the entrance and drive back to the parking lot where we will meet. 

There is a 10 participant limit so sign up early. To sign up, please email laurievoss25@gmail.com and please include your phone number and whether or not you are a member.  ABAS members will have priority before April 15. Non-members will be added first come first serve after April 15, but sign up early to get on the list. 

What: Pre-opening hike at the new Carpenter Nature Preserve

When: May 2, 2026 from 8:00-11:00 am

Where: Carpenter Nature Preserve. 601 S. 900 East, Zionsville, IN 46077

Register: laurievoss25@gmail.com