J.F. Gregory Park Trail

J.F. Gregory Park is a 335-acre multi-use recreational area that once encompassed a thriving rice plantation and was subsequently bought up by Henry Ford. Named for Ford's plantation foreman, the park was developed beginning in 1998. In addition to the 3-mile nature trail, today the park includes the Wetland Education Center, a birding trail with tower, the restored Henry Ford home, a 10-acre lake and a covered pavilion. In addition, you can fish, picnic, canoe and play sports here; there are also fitness stations along the trail. The community of Richmond Hill clearly take pride in this beautiful park, as many different groups participated in its creation and maintenance. The local garden club, historical society, city planners, and private donors collaborated to develop historic landscaping, refurbish the Ford house, construct the trails, birdwatching tower, pavilion and wetlands center. In addition, a bridge and monument to veterans have been constructed. Types of Birds: Songbirds, wading birds, waterfowl Best Birding Seasons: Songbirds (all), wading birds (all), waterfowl (winter) Specialties: Prothonotary warbler, wood duck, barred owl Tips: Look for warblers during spring and fall migrations. Prothonotary warblers are best seen from April to June. Fee: Free. Hours: Daylight hours Fun Things to Do: Look for otters, beavers, alligators and armadillos while walking the trail.