Sloan's Crossing Pond Boardwalk - Image 1
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Sloan's Crossing Pond and Boardwalk

4.7
·22 reviews·Smiths Grove, United States

A serene 0.4-mile boardwalk loop around a pond, teeming with turtles and birdlife. Perfect for easy nature walks and wildlife spotting.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Warmer afternoons

Best for turtle sightings

CrowdLow
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Sloan's Crossing Pond Boardwalk - Image 1

Sloan's Crossing Pond and Boardwalk

Best Time

Warmer afternoons

Best for turtle sightings

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene 0.4-mile boardwalk loop around a pond, teeming with turtles and birdlife. Perfect for easy nature walks and wildlife spotting.

4.7
(22 reviews)

"This is a beautiful quiet place. Not a very long walk and easy it get in and out of. There are lots of turtles here."

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Easy & Accessible Walk

The boardwalk is well-maintained and perfect for all ages and mobility levels. :athletic_shoe:

Wildlife Viewing

Bring binoculars for better birdwatching and keep an eye on the water for turtles and other creatures. :binoculars:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Boardwalk Loop

The Boardwalk Loop

Around Sloan's Crossing Pond

A sturdy, .4-mile boardwalk offering easy access to the wetlands and surrounding woods.

Turtle Haven

Turtle Haven

Sloan's Crossing Pond

Abundant turtles are a major draw, often seen basking or swimming in the pond.

Birdsong and Critters

Birdsong and Critters

Surrounding Wetlands

Listen for diverse bird songs and spot crayfish and salamanders in this peaceful natural setting.

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Planning Your Visit

Easy Access, Big Rewards

This short, accessible boardwalk loop is perfect for a quick nature escape. It's ideal for families and those seeking a peaceful stroll without a strenuous hike. Expect to see turtles and diverse birdlife.

Wildlife Spotting Tips

Visit during warmer parts of the day for the best chance to see turtles basking. Keep an eye on the water and surrounding vegetation for salamanders and crayfish. Early mornings or late afternoons can be great for birdwatching.

Best Times

When
Warmer afternoons
Why
Best for turtle sightings
Crowd
Low
When
Early mornings
Why
Peaceful birdwatching
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Easy & Accessible Walk

The boardwalk is well-maintained and perfect for all ages and mobility levels. :athletic_shoe:

Wildlife Viewing

Bring binoculars for better birdwatching and keep an eye on the water for turtles and other creatures. :binoculars:

Quick Nature Break

Ideal for a short, peaceful stroll when you need a dose of nature. :leafy_green:

Dog-Friendly Stroll

Leashed dogs are welcome on the boardwalk for a pleasant walk. :dog:

Tips

from all over the internet

Easy & Accessible Walk

The boardwalk is well-maintained and perfect for all ages and mobility levels. :athletic_shoe:

Wildlife Viewing

Bring binoculars for better birdwatching and keep an eye on the water for turtles and other creatures. :binoculars:

Quick Nature Break

Ideal for a short, peaceful stroll when you need a dose of nature. :leafy_green:

Dog-Friendly Stroll

Leashed dogs are welcome on the boardwalk for a pleasant walk. :dog:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(22 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Sloan's Crossing Pond and Boardwalk for its beauty, accessibility, and abundant wildlife, especially turtles. It's lauded as a peaceful, easy walk perfect for families and a quick nature escape. Some wish for more extensive facilities, but the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive for its charm and natural appeal.

"This is definitely worth a stop if you're in the area. The pond and surrounding woods are beautiful. We were able to spot turtles, crayfish, salamanders, and even a snake in the water. The trail is just .4 miles long and goes around the pond."

Karrie Clark

"This is a beautiful quiet place. Not a very long walk and easy it get in and out of. There are lots of turtles here. It’s a great place to bring your kids or go on a short quiet walk. There are a lot of other activities nearby here but I would not pass this place up."

james smalling

"A quiet stroll on a sturdy boardwalk with the opportunity to hear bird song and see turtles, dogs, and other critters."

Johaniashivclaw

What People Like

Beautiful pond and boardwalk
Abundant turtles
Easy and accessible walk

What People Dislike

Limited facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Sloan's Crossing Pond and Boardwalk is easily accessible by car. It's often mentioned as a convenient stop when exploring nearby attractions. Parking is typically available near the trailhead.

Information on public transportation options is limited. It's best to check local transit schedules or consider ride-sharing services if you don't have a car.

Sloan's Crossing is generally located off main routes, making it a straightforward drive. Consult your GPS for the most direct route from your starting point.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, admission to Sloan's Crossing Pond and Boardwalk is typically free. It's a public access area for enjoying nature. :free_button:

As an outdoor natural area, Sloan's Crossing is generally accessible from dawn until dusk. There are no set operating hours, but it's best to visit during daylight. :sunriseovermountains:

There is no entrance fee to walk the boardwalk or enjoy the pond area. It's a wonderful free nature experience. :moneywithwings:

While the area is outdoors, it's recommended to visit during daylight hours for safety and to best enjoy the wildlife viewing opportunities. :flashlight:

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The boardwalk loop around Sloan's Crossing Pond is approximately 0.4 miles long, making it a very short and easy walk. :running_man:

Yes, the boardwalk is described as sturdy and easily accessible, making it suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. :wheelchair:

Visitors frequently report seeing numerous turtles, as well as crayfish, salamanders, snakes, and a variety of birds. :turtle:

Information on specific facilities like restrooms or picnic areas is not widely available. It's advisable to plan accordingly and use facilities elsewhere if needed.

Absolutely! The short, easy walk and abundant wildlife, especially turtles, make it a fantastic spot for children. :child:

📸 📸 Photography

The entire boardwalk offers scenic views of the pond and surrounding nature. Focus on capturing the turtles, birds, and the reflections on the water. :camerawithflash:

Yes, it's a great spot for casual nature photography, especially for close-ups of turtles and other small creatures. Bring a zoom lens for birds. :bird:

Early morning or late afternoon light can be beautiful for photography, offering softer light and potentially more active wildlife. :sunflower:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Sloan's Crossing Pond and Boardwalk is a gem for families. The short, 0.4-mile boardwalk loop is perfectly manageable for little legs, and its sturdy construction means strollers are a breeze. The real magic for kids, however, is the sheer number of turtles they can spot in and around the pond. It's an exciting and educational experience that doesn't require a long commitment. Reddit+1

This spot offers a fantastic opportunity for children to engage with nature in a safe and accessible environment. The chance to see various critters like crayfish and salamanders adds to the adventure. It’s an ideal destination for a quick outing that provides big smiles and memorable wildlife encounters without overwhelming young children. :child: :turtle:

Budget Travelers & Day-Trippers

For those seeking an enriching experience without spending a dime, Sloan's Crossing is ideal. Admission is free, making it a perfect addition to any budget-friendly itinerary. Its short length also makes it an excellent choice for a quick stop or a brief nature break during a day of exploring nearby attractions. Reddit

This accessible boardwalk offers a pleasant way to enjoy the outdoors and observe local wildlife. It’s a low-effort, high-reward destination that provides a peaceful escape and a chance to see turtles and birds. Pack a small snack and enjoy a moment of tranquility without impacting your wallet. :moneywithwings: :leafy_green:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Boardwalk Experience

The Sloan's Crossing Pond and Boardwalk offers a delightful and easily accessible nature walk. The primary feature is a well-maintained, sturdy boardwalk that encircles the pond, spanning approximately 0.4 miles. This makes it an ideal destination for visitors of all ages and mobility levels, including those with strollers or wheelchairs. The boardwalk provides a comfortable and safe way to immerse yourself in the wetland environment without venturing onto potentially muddy or uneven terrain. It's a perfect example of how thoughtful infrastructure can enhance the enjoyment of natural spaces. Reddit+1

This short loop is designed for a peaceful experience, allowing visitors to connect with nature at a relaxed pace. The surrounding woods and wetlands create a serene atmosphere, often accompanied by the sounds of birdsong. It’s a place where you can pause, breathe, and appreciate the local flora and fauna. The simplicity of the walk belies the richness of the ecosystem it showcases, making it a valuable stop for a quick nature fix. Reddit

Abundant Wildlife Encounters

One of the most celebrated aspects of Sloan's Crossing is its thriving wildlife population, particularly its abundant turtles. Visitors frequently report seeing numerous turtles basking on logs, rocks, or the edges of the pond. These sightings are a major highlight for many who visit, offering a fantastic opportunity for observation and photography. Reddit+1

Beyond the turtles, the wetlands and surrounding areas are home to a variety of other fascinating creatures. Keep an eye out for crayfish scuttling in the shallow waters, salamanders hidden in damp areas, and even the occasional snake. The diverse birdlife also contributes to the area's appeal, with many visitors enjoying the chance to listen to and spot different species. This concentration of accessible wildlife makes Sloan's Crossing a miniature nature reserve right on the boardwalk. Reddit

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