Shenks Ferry Wildflower Preserve is a favorite local spot with a regional reputation for spring wildflowers with its array of dozens of species of ephemerals that bloom through March and early April. However, it’s not the only option for exploring spring flowers. If you’re looking for a new (or less crowded) floral outing this season, here are some other nature preserves you may want to check out!
Trout lily and spring beauties (Photo: Michelle Johnsen)
Skunk cabbage (Photo: Peggy Eppig)
Azalea (Photo: Brandon Tennis)1. Clark Nature Preserve
Bloodroot, spring beauties, mayapples, and trout lilies are some of the spring wildflowers that are seen at Clark Nature Preserve in Pequea, Lancaster County. These native ephemerals signal the start of spring. Clark Nature Preserve encompasses over 370 acres of forest and meadow. While you’re there, be sure to stop by House Rock overlook for sweeping views of the Susquehanna River too!
(Please note that visitors to Clark Nature Preserve from January 3, 2024, through the summer of 2024 may encounter construction equipment as we work to install the universally accessible Lloyd Clark Trail.)
2. Windolph Landing Nature Preserve
Located just a short drive from Lancaster City, Windolph Landing Nature Preserve is home to an impressive array of Virginia bluebells in the spring. Enjoy the flowers and a walk along the Conestoga River when you visit this preserve.
3. Steinman Run Nature Preserve
It may not get as much love as some of the other spring wildflowers, but skunk cabbage is still a cool plant! It’s one of the earliest spring flowers to emerge in February, and its spathes produce heat that can actually melt through snow or ice. You can find skunk cabbage in low-lying moist areas on multiple Conservancy preserves, including at Steinman Run Nature Preserve in Pequea or the nearby Climbers Run Nature Center.
4. Shiprock Woods Nature Preserve
Located in Willow Street, Lancaster County, Shiprock Woods Nature Preserve offers an easy hike with a few short climbs. Along the figure eight-shaped trail, keep an eye out for cutleaf toothwort and Dutchman’s breeches.
5. Welsh Mountain Nature Preserve
If you’re heading outside later in the spring, Welsh Mountain Nature Preserve is the place to be! This preserve, located in East Earl, Lancaster County, puts on a display of azaleas and pink lady’s slippers both along its universally accessible trail and throughout the forest around the beginning of May.
Cutleaf toothwort (Photo: Avery Van Etten)
Mayapple (Photo: Michelle Johnsen)
Virginia bluebell (Photo: Avery Van Etten)