River Walk (Orange) Trail
The River Walk (Orange) Trail is 7.6 km and it takes about 2 hours to walk. The level of difficulty is 2. This trail follows the Maitland River along the dyke trails and over an old highway bridge. Beaver dams and lodges, osprey platforms and wood duck boxes are some of the animal homes that can be seen along the way. On this trail hikers will pass by significant waterfowl habitat.
Hope you brought your walking shoes and your camera! Stunning views abound along the expansive River Walk Trail. Follow the winding South Maitland River and it flows through the property. Some of the best butterfly watching at Hullett is on this Trail! See the Baltimore Checkerspot - a butterfly whose underside is probably even more beautiful than its upper (which is rare amongst butterflies). This trail has been home to a Common Buckeye (see picture) as well this summer. The Buckeye doesn't make it up this far north usually and it's a treat to spot this species here. These and many more butterflies await you on the River Walk Trail!
Not just for butterflies, the River Walk boasts some of the best birding habitat at Hullett. Due to the tremendous amount of habitat diversity, you can observe both terrestrial and water birds well here. Some of the more interesting bird species of the terrestrial variety along the Orange Trail are the Scarlet Tanager and the Veery. Water birds are headed by a large number of Great Blue Heron, ducks and even a Sandhill Crane or two. Be sure to bring your binoculars!
If you have some time and are up for a challenge, give the River Walk a try. Be sure to keep your eyes and ears open for the wildlife around you and snap a picture or two and send it to us! Happy Hiking!