John Noel Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Spring · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Overlooking a historic site and containing abundant wildflowers from March through May, this is a genuine diamond in the rough. The enormous trees are worth the visit in themselves but it's in the spring when this place really shines. Bring a camera!

Johnny Cash's old "Hideaway Farm" is just up the road and is worth a visit. Also, the Beacon Light Tea Room, perhaps ten minutes east on Highway 100, has some of the best biscuits and country ham you're liable to find. Enjoy!

A gently rolling path that wanders through old growth forest and past several spectacularly large trees, edging sinkholes tracing a lengthy cave that lies beneath. Along the northern portion, the trail runs along the Spring Creek valley and past the old Bon Aqua Springs Resort property; depending on the weather your nose might catch a whiff of the sulfur spring which used to be the "cure" for thousands of visitors in the early 20th century. The old swimming pool is still very much in evidence, but please don't visit it as it is on private property.

A wonderful trail to run any time of year, John Noel shines during the spring when it is bedecked with Mayapple, Trillium, Trout Lily, purple Phlox, and bright orange Celandine. Closer inspection will also reveal Spotted Wintergreen and Crane Fly Orchids. Terrapin have been seen on the trail, along with many deer and wild turkeys.

The Bon Aqua Springs Resort was once a destination for thousands. My father used to clean their (spring-fed!) swimming pool! Check out this website for more information.