Overview
Nellie Pond Trail circles a small spring-fed pond and adjacent seepage bog in the southern portion of Conecuh National Forest, covering terrain that represents the forest's finest carnivorous plant habitat. The 3.5-mile loop is flat and accessible but somewhat remote, in the quietest corner of the forest away from the Open Pond Recreation Area.
The primary attraction is the bog community around the pond, which supports pitcher plants, sundews, and native orchids in spring. The surrounding longleaf flatwoods are actively managed with prescribed fire and support active gopher tortoise populations.
No permit required. No facilities at trailhead.
The Route
The full loop (3.5 miles). The loop begins at the forest road pullout and enters longleaf flatwoods heading north toward the pond. The approach crosses approximately 1.5 miles of open savanna before reaching the pond margin.
The pond and seepage bog area is the highlight of the loop. The carnivorous plants grow in the wet, open areas where the ground stays saturated from groundwater seepage. Do not walk in the bog; observe from the trail edge to avoid damaging the delicate plant communities.
The return portion of the loop passes through slightly denser longleaf before completing the circuit at the trailhead.
When to Hike
February through April: Carnivorous plant bloom season. February: pitcher plants begin. March: native orchids and sundews peak. April: wild azalea and other savanna wildflowers continue the sequence.
October and November: Fall wildflowers and lower insect pressure. A good second choice.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry 1.5 liters of water. No water available on trail. Binoculars useful for songbird watching in the longleaf. Do not walk into the bog; stay on the trail.
Trailhead Access
On FR-352 in the southern forest, about 8 miles south of Open Pond Recreation Area. Gravel road, standard vehicles adequate.
Practical Details
No permit is required for day hiking on this trail. Dogs are welcome on leash. No restroom facilities are at the trailhead; plan accordingly. No water source is available at the trailhead; carry all water from home. No cell service is available in this area; download offline maps before leaving the main road.
The recommended season for this trail is February through April. Conditions outside this window may include challenging weather, trail closures, or reduced accessibility. Always verify current conditions with the Conecuh National Forest ranger district before visiting, particularly at the beginning and end of the recommended season when conditions are most variable.
The lake provides a visual focus for the trail and is a good birding location in the early morning hours. Wildflower timing varies by year; spring and early summer are generally the peak bloom window. Wildlife is present throughout the forest. Maintain distance from any animals encountered on or near the trail.
Before any visit, review the Leave No Trace seven principles and our checking conditions guide for current fire restrictions, trail closures, and ranger district advisories. The America the Beautiful pass covers day use fees at developed recreation areas where applicable. Veterans and active military have additional access options covered in our veteran benefits guide.
Nearby
The Conecuh Trail: South Section passes near this area on its route to the Florida state line. The Open Pond Loop is the primary lake trail, about 8 miles north. See the full Conecuh National Forest guide. Follow Leave No Trace principles, particularly the stay-on-trail requirement near the bog community.