Turkey Creek Trail Now Open

All of the bridges and boardwalks that were consumed by wildfire have been replaced and the trail is in good condition.

The Turkey Creek Trail is recovering from the wildfire that burned over it last June. The black charred wood on downed trees is contrasted with the bright green leaves of emerging plants. Other plants are responding to the recent rain by putting forth young fruit; Pokeweed that will turn red then dark blue and American Beautyberry that will become bright purple. The Partridge pea, Day flowers and catchflies are blooming yellow, blue and red respectively.

Tall pines are still green though their trunks are black for the first few feet off the ground. Young trumpet vine and cross vine are creeping slowly back over burnt bark. Medium sized trees such as Ti-ti and Sweet Bay magnolia appear dead, but shoots covered with green leaves are already three feet high around their base. The fire burned some plants roots and all - leaving gaping black holes in the forest floor.

There is a noticeable absence of snakes and lizards, but the birds are in their usual abundance. The Pileated woodpecker is already taking advantage of charred snags. Tracks of deer and hogs are seen on the sandy trail, and the familiar traps built by the ant lion are waiting for the wayward ant. Carpenter ants and leaf-cutter ants are busy along the trail.

Take advantage of our beautiful fall weather and enjoy the wonder of forest recovery.

Call the Visitor Center for more information, 409-951-6700.