Nearby, Heidecke Lake, whose hunting and fishing programs are managed by the state, serves as a cooling pond for the Collins Station Plant. Tall Grass Nature Trail is a self-guiding trek that winds through the prairie and the trail's trademark grasses of big bluestem and Indian grass, which can get to be 8 feet in height. Depending on the route you decide to take, the trail can be 1 or 3.5 miles long. Keep in mind that one of the major reasons why Goose Lake Prairie survived was that it was generally far too wet to plant crops on. The marsh here was helped along by the decision to drain the lake, and today is home to all kinds of wetlands wildlife.
Trails are available for cross-country skiing in the winter.
Check the visitor center for maps. Picnicking Work up an appetite along the trails, then stop for a bite to eat. Tables, grills, water and toilets are provided at two picnic areas at Goose Lake Prairie. The Prairie Grove Picnic Area, south of the visitor center, also features shelters. Cragg Cabin A reconstructed cabin at Goose Lake Prairie stands as a monument to the pioneer spirit.