Welcome to the Raven Ridge Nature Preserve. Owned by The Nature Conservancy, this natural area stretches from Lewis Creek south along a scenic ridge on the boundary of Charlotte and Hinesburg to a large wetland complex south of Rotax Road in Monkton. The land is home to a great variety of wildlife, including the federally endangered Indiana bat. Lewis Creek, a tributary, and other wetlands provide a diverse ecosystem for aquatic species. Also, the property’s exposed ridge offers spectacular views of farmland, mountain ranges, and Lake Champlain.
One of the most compelling aspects of this land is its ecological diversity. The land is a rarity in this part of the Champlain lowlands: a remarkably unfragmented stretch with expanses of three forest types: valley clayplain, mesic maple-ash-hickory-oak, and dry oak-hickory-hophornbeam.
For a map of the preserve, including it's walking trails:
click here.
The Nature Conservancy would like you to know the following about the Preserve.
• Nature Conservancy Visitor Guidelines:
o Hiking, birding, photography, nature study and other low-impact, non-motorized uses are welcome.
o All motorized vehicles, ATVs, trail bikes and bicycles are prohibited except in emergencies.
o Please respect the land; do not remove plants, animals, artifacts or rocks.
o Do not camp, light fires or leave litter.
o Please leave pets at home (except guide dogs).
o Use designated parking; don't block private property or public roads.
o Keep group size small.
o Visitors use the natural area at their own risk.
• This cache has been placed with permission of The Nature Conservancy.
• The mission of The Nature Conservancy is to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends.
For even more info about the fine work of the Conservancy visit the the foloowing website:
This cache may appear to be on private land. It is not. It is near, but just insided the nature preserve boundary. It is just off a trail, although depending on which trail you end up following you may have to bushwack a bit to get to it.