Description

Elevation: 886 ft.

The seven-mile Chessie Nature Trail follows the Maury River from Lexington to Buena Vista. Similar to other trail projects, the Chessie Nature Trail follows a disused rail line through private and public lands. The trail’s close proximity to the river and the alternating open and forested habitats it crosses, offers visitors an opportunity to view a variety of wildlife. The woods along the trail host typical eastern forest species. Along the forest edges where the forest ends and fields begin, look for brilliant indigo bunting perched on prominent perches loudly proclaiming their territories. The more retiring red-eyed and white-eyed vireos are more often heard than seen, as is the yellow-billed cuckoo whose croaky voice often sounds more like an insect than a bird.

Directions

From the Goshen Wildlife Management Area, return 13.8 miles to the intersection of SR 39 and US 11. Go south on US 11 for 1.0 mile to Rt. 631/Furs Mill Road. Turn left and go 0.5 miles to informal pullouts on both sides of the road.