A Dec. 11 hike offers nature enthusiasts the unique opportunity to experience Monroe Lake’s Stillwater Marsh, a waterfowl resting area that is normally off limits during the winter.

Monroe Lake naturalist Jill Vance will lead the hike, which starts at 2 p.m. The hike is free, but limited to 15 people.

Registration is required by Dec. 7. To sign up, call the Paynetown Activity Center at (812) 837-9967 or email jvance@dnr.IN.gov.

The hike will be an easy 90-minute walk over flat terrain for about 1.75 miles.

Stillwater Marsh is between Bloomington and Nashville. The hike’s meeting location will be provided upon registration.

The Stillwater-North Fork Waterfowl Resting Area is Monroe Lake’s premier wildlife management area. From mid-autumn through early spring, a seasonal wetland provides important habitat for migrating and resident waterfowl.

The marsh is generally closed to the public from Oct. 1 through Apr. 15.

The marsh is only part of the story. This hike will follow the levee wall around Stillwater Marsh and discuss how Monroe Lake manages the area to support a variety of wildlife.

Hikers may see ducks, geese, eagles and other wildlife and are encouraged to bring binoculars.

Monroe Lake is at 4850 South State Road 446, Bloomington, 47401.

Logo courtesy Indiana Department of Natural Resources