The untouched floodplain forest at Walner Nature Preserve offers a tranquil setting where wetland-loving creatures and plants can thrive. Isolated by an Interstate highway, railroad tracks, and the Little Calumet River, Walner has largely been protected from development and invasion by exotic species. The preserve features good-quality upland forest, steep ravines, and nearly a half-mile frontage along the river. The floodplain forest includes oxbows from the river’s original course.

Woodland wildflowers cover the slopes of the ravines in spring. A parking lot off of Taylor St. leads to a launch site for paddlers, and a loop trail that follows along the north edge of the river.