Conservation Trail

For hikers looking for a delightful, family-friendly trail in southeastern Pennsylvania, go to the 6,254 acre Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area. Here, adventurers will find the 1.5 mile Conservation Trail that conveniently starts and ends at the visitor center parking lot.

Noted as “good for kids,” this trail offers a variety of environments to explore that will be fun for children and adults, too. Rated as “moderate,” the trail begins as a wide, grassy path through a meadow filled with an abundance of wildflowers. Adventurers admiring the mass of wildflowers, may also see butterflies busily flitting from blossom to blossom.

The trail meanders uphill through the meadow. At the top of the hill, adventurers should be sure to turn around and look at the panoramic view of the Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area. The scenic view includes the meadow, lake and hills beyond. In autumn, hikers will see some of Pennsylvania’s iconic colorful fall foliage. Hikers visiting during the spring and fall migrations, will be treated to a view of thousands of ducks, geese and swans. Typically in late winter, Middle Creek is a spectacular place to see snow geese, which can number more than 100,000.

After enjoying the view, follow the trail as it leads into the forest. The path changes to dirt and rocks. There are rectangular green painted trail markers on trees, but the path is well-defined. Signs point the way at key locations as hikers traverse between woods and meadows. Along the way, tall, straight American Sycamore trees tower overhead and woodland wildflowers such as Jack-in-the-pulpit and Amur honeysuckle dot the forest with their brilliant red color. Adventurers should be sure to look for nesting boxes and for signs that identify types of trees.

When hikers reach the wetlands portion of the trail, they will find a well-maintained wooden pathway and bridge to cross a small stream. Other wet sections of the trail have wooden planks strategically placed to keep hikers out of the mud. Note: the boards are fun to walk on, but they can be slippery.

After exiting the forest, the trail leads through another meadow filled with wildflowers, and then on to the visitor center parking lot to complete the adventure.

Cautions: Hikers should check for ticks. During hunting season, hikers should wear fluorescent orange.