Native Trees of Indiana River Walk
A Walk on the Wildlife Side
Trees of knowledge.
Our online database catalogs the more than 100 native trees found on the tree walk.
Tree Walk Map
Get ready to take it all in.
Walk along the St. Joseph River as it flows through the campus of Purdue Fort Wayne and learn about native trees of Indiana. The trailhead is located at the southwestern end of Parking Lot 10, which is just east of the St. Joseph River and is connected to the Rivergreenway park.
The Native Trees of Indiana River Walk is a 1.25-mile, lighted, eight-foot-wide asphalt trail that features more than 100 tree species native to Indiana. The trail provides an opportunity to see live specimens of our native plants, wildlife, and other interesting organisms in an urban, easily accessible, natural setting.
The river walk also sustains the ecology of the area surrounding the St. Joseph River. Root systems of trees planted next to the river have helped prevent soil erosion and stabilized the riverbanks. In addition, the trail showcases and preserves trees that have been rapidly disappearing in urban settings.
Note: The river walk is made possible by a grant from the USDA Forest Service Northeastern Area and the IDNR, Division of Forestry, Community, and Urban Forestry program.
Stats
100+
Native Indiana Trees
15,000+
Trees on Campus
95
deciduous trees
26
Native Tree Families
Partnerships
Working together for a common cause.
The Environmental Resources Center in the College of Science is a Center of Excellence at Purdue Fort Wayne, operating within its nonprofit status as a public institution. The center is a local, environmentally focused organization dedicated to the understanding and conservation of natural resources, with substantial research capacity unburdened by mandates and jurisdictional boundaries for its operation. We can provide objective guidance, explore solutions, and work to bridge gaps in mission and communication.
Visiting Campus
Visit our campus—and our trees.
Whether you’re visiting a student, thinking of becoming a student, or just want to explore the natural splendor of the copious trees and wildlife of campus, let us help you on your way. Our walk follows the St. Joseph River as it flows through our vibrant campus. If you’re unfamiliar with our campus, check out our campus map.