Trails
There are three trails that provide access to different habitats on the Refuge. The Burgess Marsh trail (0.2-miles) is accessible and the first trail that you will pass coming onto the Refuge. The Townsite trail (0.8-miles) is just north of the Refuge Headquarters and is primarily in woods with views of the Neosho River. The Dove Roost Trail (0.7-miles) is on the northeast side of the Neosho River and leads brings you to the western end of John Redmond Reservoir.
The Burgess trail is 0.16-mile concrete trail and has a wildlife observation boardwalk. This accessible trail allows visitors an elevated access into the marsh. Visitors may see wading birds, waterfowl, and shorebirds in the marsh. Along the shaded path leading to the board walk, visitors may see songbirds and woodpeckers.
Trail Length (mi)
0.16
Trail Difficulty
Easy
Estimated Time
10 Minutes
Suitability
Kid friendly
Wheelchair friendly
The 0.7-mile Dove Roost Trail circles Dove Roost Pond, passing through native prairie and heavily wooded habitats. Eagle Point, a rocky outcropping, provides a good observation area for eagle watchers in the winter.
Trail Length (mi)
0.74
Trail Difficulty
Moderate
Estimated Time
45 Minutes
Route Type
Lollipop
Suitability
Kid friendly
The 0.8-mile Townsite Trail meanders through a wooded area along the Neosho River just north of Hartford. In fact, the area was once part of the town of Hartford, but it was cut off from the rest of the town when John Redmond reservoir was built. Overtime, nature has reclaimed the area.
Trail Length (mi)
0.76
Trail Difficulty
Easy
Estimated Time
30 Minutes
Suitability
Kid friendly