The white trail is the longest. It’s a loop trail that leads from the parking lot into the woods, along Tank Creek, around a beaver pond and past historic ruins. The 0.1 mile red trail follows an old stone wall and is simply a shortcut across the white trail loop. The 0.25 mile blue trail overlaps a portion of the white trail, leading hikers in a loop around two manmade freshwater ponds with abundant signs of beaver activity. The blue trail also passes some ruins including the remains of a spring-fed swimming pool. Both of the red and blue trails are accessed via the white trail.

As adventurers hike the trail, watch for glimpses of the property’s history. The preserve naturally provides substantial groundwater and spring fed flow to the headwaters of Tank Creek. When hiking the trail section near the creek, be sure to look for the remains of an old dam and water pipes used to direct the water. Tank Creek received its’ name because in the late 19th century, a portion of the creek was diverted to a cistern in order to top off the tanks of passing steam locomotives.

Another glimpse into the property history is found in the trees. Observant hikers may notice that a section of the forest is noticeably younger, judging by the diameters of the trees. In the 1920’s, this area was a hayfield used to feed a herd of elk.

The most obvious sign of the history of the property is the ruins of an old stone farmhouse. Situated just off of the white trail, the remaining portions of a large farmhouse are easy to see from the trail. Since the dwelling is unstable, a danger sign is posted near the building. Originally built in the 1910’s by Carl Tielenius, the house burned in the 1960’s. The forest is gradually overtaking the residence. The 52 degree spring continues to flow year-round through the former swimming pool, to the ponds, and into Tank Creek. A variety of wildlife is attracted to this area because it remains unfrozen throughout the year.