Take a Spin at Boyd Big Tree Preserve Conservation Area

The Boyd Big Tree Preserve Conservation Area in Dauphin County is just over 2 miles away from Fort Hunter Mansion and Park near the historic capital of Harrisburg.

The Preserve was donate by Alexander Boyd in 1999, with a restrictive covenant. It can only be used for conservation, education, and non-motorized recreational activities. The exception is motorize wheelchair and motorized vehicles for official use. In addition, only minimal recreation facilities, i.e. a small picnic area is available and a bathroom.

I had a banged up ankle on the day that I visited. So, I was only able to walk in about a half of a mile. But the preservation has a total of 12 miles of trail. It was a great little walk until my ankle started to throb and I had to get back to the van.

The Pond Loop Trail is best during the spring and summer to see wildlife as it is use as a watering hole according to the park brochure and the Creek Trail was the one that I wanted to take but at just under a mile long in and a under a mile back. A bit to far for the day!

A great place to see different types of bird including wild turkeys, grouse, birds of prey, blue birds, and so many others. In the summer and fall, the fields are filled with Butterflies. In the winter, cross country skiing is available.