Trillium Trail

The natural area you are now entering is 110 acres of bluffs and forest designated as Fern Rocks Nature Preserve. The reasons this was designated a preserve were to protect not only the sandstone bluffs, but also two endangered plants. The white flowered mint, and the grove bluegrass. many other wonderful ferns, wildflowers, trees, and shrubs call this area home. Each season brings changes for viewing pleasure along the Trillium Trail.

As you begin the hike, one will follow the intermittent Stonefort Creek. Following periods of rain, the cliff walls will have many small water falls or ice falls in winter. The small caves and shelters along this trail feel much more wild than the other trails within Giant City State Park. The walls have ferns and flowers clinging to the rocks and make your mind wander about how such a sheer cliff can hold such diverse life. In fact, Forbes' Saxifrange, and French's Shooting Star are two plants that were discovered here. 

As the name implies, trilliums are evident. You may see deer, foxes, raccoons, rabbits, bobcats, skunks, lizards, depending on time of day and season. Also several species of snakes use the bluffs to hibernate in winter. Copperhead and a more rare Timber Rattlesnake both reside within the park. Just keeping an eye below you on the trail you should have no issue with either species. Vegetation is lush in summer months, and fall colors are beautiful.