Discovering the Gwynedd Wildlife Preserve

Surprisingly, in the middle of suburbia, just down the road from North Wales, is an oasis of nature: The Gwynedd Wildlife Preserve (GWP).  Here you'll find 279 acres of old farmland dedicated to re-naturalization. This land offers many paths where you can meander through grasslands, wetlands, and woodlands in the process of restoration.  Along the way, you'll also find interesting signposts offering educational tidbits about the ecology of the land.

Though I have seldom encountered others during my visits, you may pass by an occasional runner, a leashed dog with his owner, or a horse and rider also enjoying the serenity the preserve offers.  By approaching quietly you will likely see deer and rabbit while you are there, but the GWP also claims the presence of fox, flying squirrels and a variety of grassland birds.

Part of the GWP includes the right of way for power lines which you can easily walk under. However, the best part of the preserve is the location. The boundaries often butt up to Upper Gwynedd Township Open Space and/or Wissahickon Valley Watershed Association lands so in reality you have more that 279 acres to enjoy. The Wissahickon Creek and the Green Ribbon Trail are easily accessed from the preserve near the Evans Mumbower Mill.

Before you go, visit the Gwynedd Wildlife Preserve website and be sure to download their trail map to guide you.  There is parking 1/2 mile northeast of Township Line and South Swedesford Roads.  The address is listed as South Swedesford Road, Ambler, PA 19002.

So take some time and treat yourself to some beautiful fall color before winter sets in!