A Short Stroll, ending in a loop
The Idell Preserve rewards hikers with a short, pleasant stroll where they can observe a variety of plants and amphibian life. Located within the Delaware River Watershed, this 57-acre tract in Kingwood Township includes old growth trees around its perimeter, pine forests that are home to Great horned owls and young deciduous trees.
Hikers can check out the seasonal vernal pools and observe the frogs, salamanders, amphibian eggs and Eastern box turtles along the trail. The preserve is also a terrific place for birding and you’ll likely see some woodpeckers so don’t forget to look up! You’ll also notice a variety of plants: Staghorn Sumac, Pin Oaks, Spicebush, Jack-in-the-Pulpit and Mayapple. You may also spot some native blueberry shrubs. And mushrooms, of course.
The preserve is owned by Hunterdon Land Trust. The 0.8-mile trail is easy to walk, but can get quite wet at times so make sure you dress appropriately.
Idell’s preservation is important for groundwater infiltration, carbon sequestration and protection of habitat for bats and insects. Protecting a tract that attracts amphibians is also vital. Amphibians are sensitive to changes in their environment, like pollution, so their strong presence at the Idell Preserve serves as an indicator of high environmental quality.
Hunting in season, dogs must be leashed
So get out and take a short walk, why else would you come all the way here