Miami University--Western Woods and Beck Preserve

Tips for Birding

There are two options for parking to visit the trails at Western Woods and Beck Preserve. See the map below for parking locations.

The entrance to the College Woods Loop is south of the Boyd Hall parking lot at 551 Western College Dr., Oxford, OH 45056. A parking pass is required to park here, done online. It costs $3.00 per day (parking permit link: https://miamioh.edu/cca/facilities/visitor-parking/). If parking there, the trailhead is just south of the parking lot, or walk back the cinder driveway between the parking lot and the greenhouse.

The other option is to park at Peffer Park (another hotspot) and walk 900 feet on the paved bike path under the US-27 bridge. The paved path heads east close to Collins Run creek, then north close to Four Mile Creek. To the left, watch for trails that go up the hills through mostly mature woods.

About this Location

The Western Woods comprises approximately 100 acres located on the eastern and southern sides of the Western Campus. There is a hiking trail through this beautiful woodland area that travels hills and valleys through a magnificent stand of oaks, beech, and maples.

In 1997 the University acquired Beck Reserve. This land was part of the estate of the late Dr. William and Virginia Beck. Their son, Michael Beck, and his wife Noreen stipulated in the transaction that the land was not to be developed. Today, trails travel along Four Mile Creek up hillsides with beautiful views of the valley below and through mature woodlands.

About Miami University

See all hotspots at Miami University

Miami University is a residential university with faculty who are dedicated to learning and discovery. A liberal education core provides the foundation for the more specialized studies of the majors. Immersing students in both academic and co-curricular experiences has enabled Miami to achieve a top-tier national ranking among universities that provide the best student outcomes.

Founded in 1809, Miami’s name reflects the history of the Native American tribe that once inhabited the Miami Valley region of Ohio. Miami maintains strong ties with the Miami Tribe, now located in Oklahoma.

The main campus is located in Oxford, Ohio (35 miles north of Cincinnati). Regional locations include Hamilton, Middletown, West Chester, Ohio, and the European Center in Luxembourg.

Features

  • Restrooms on site

  • Wheelchair accessible trail

  • Entrance fee

  • Roadside viewing

Content from Official Website, Miami University Official Website, and Mike Minium

Last updated February 9, 2023