Boyd Big Tree Preserve
Explore over 1,000 acres of Pennsylvania's natural beauty, featuring large trees, scenic trails, and a vibrant wildflower meadow.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, birds are active
Boyd Big Tree Preserve
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, birds are active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore over 1,000 acres of Pennsylvania's natural beauty, featuring large trees, scenic trails, and a vibrant wildflower meadow.
"A wonderful park with big trees and well-marked trails, perfect for mellow walks or challenging hikes."
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
Trails can be steep, mucky, and have loose scree. Boots are essential for comfort and safety.
🗺️ Embrace Trail Loops
The interconnected trails allow for endless loop combinations, making it easy to customize your hike.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Giant Trees
Throughout the preserve
Experience the impressive scale of Pennsylvania's large trees, a key feature of this conservation area.
Wildflower Meadow
Front of the property
A vibrant meadow designed to attract butterflies and birds, offering a splash of color and wildlife viewing.
Interconnected Trail System
Across the preserve
Explore endless loop possibilities on well-marked trails suitable for various skill levels.
Mountain Laurel
Various sections
Admire some of the most beautiful mountain laurel formations, especially stunning when in bloom.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Terrain & Footwear
Trail Navigation & Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
Trails can be steep, mucky, and have loose scree. Boots are essential for comfort and safety.
🗺️ Embrace Trail Loops
The interconnected trails allow for endless loop combinations, making it easy to customize your hike.
🦋 Spot Wildlife
Keep an eye out for amphibians in the pond and birds in the wildflower meadow.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The preserve offers scenic views and beautiful natural features, perfect for photography.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
Trails can be steep, mucky, and have loose scree. Boots are essential for comfort and safety.
🗺️ Embrace Trail Loops
The interconnected trails allow for endless loop combinations, making it easy to customize your hike.
🦋 Spot Wildlife
Keep an eye out for amphibians in the pond and birds in the wildflower meadow.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The preserve offers scenic views and beautiful natural features, perfect for photography.
💧 Be Prepared for Mud
East side trails may have mucky crossings due to a stream.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Boyd Big Tree Preserve for its beautiful scenery, impressive large trees, and extensive, interconnected trail system that allows for endless exploration. Many appreciate the well-marked paths and the opportunity to see wildlife, particularly in the wildflower meadow. Some note the challenging, steep terrain on certain trails, recommending sturdy footwear.
"A wonderful park that's tucked away down a winding road. Has a parking lot that's a mix of paved and gravel with a nice pavilion and restroom area. Dog poo bags and trash cans are at the entrance, too. The trail is steep and winding up to the main intersection where the other trails and the pond split off in all directions. I usually only go to the pond to walk around to see the amphibians and enjoy just sitting and watching the pond. I've seen a few folks fishing in the pond, but they never catch anything of note, so it's probably not worth it."
Bruce P
"What a beautiful day to visit Boyd Big Bear Preserve. Made up my own trail but there’s plenty to explore. There are several different trails posted there. You could spend hours or even days exploring this beautiful mountain area. I’d recommend wearing hiking boots since I encounter lots of slippery terrain. Made sure to enjoy the fresh clean air!"
John
"Big trees (for PA) and well marked, well cleared trails. Really beautiful for some mellow walks or hikes."
Marie Schwalbe
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Boyd Big Tree Preserve is located off Fishing Creek Valley Road in Middle Paxton Township, PA. It's described as being tucked away down a winding road.
Yes, there is a parking lot that is a mix of paved and gravel, with a pavilion and restroom area. Dog poo bags and trash cans are also available at the entrance.
Yes, pets are welcome at Boyd Big Tree Preserve. Dog poo bags are provided at the entrance.
While the preserve offers many trails, some are described as steep and with loose scree, suggesting it may not be fully accessible for all mobility levels.
The preserve has an interconnected trail system that allows for endless loop combinations. It's generally considered impossible to get lost as everything loops back.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Boyd Big Tree Preserve is a public park and does not require tickets for entry. It's a conservation area open to visitors.
As a public park, Boyd Big Tree Preserve is generally open from dawn to dusk. Specific hours may vary, so it's best to check local park information if available.
There is no admission fee to enter Boyd Big Tree Preserve. It is a free public space for recreation and enjoying nature.
There is no need to book or reserve spots for general visits to Boyd Big Tree Preserve. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis for parking and trail access.
While not a primary focus, occasional photography meetups or community events might occur. It's best to check local event listings or park announcements for any scheduled activities.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Visitors can spot amphibians in the pond and various bird species, especially in the wildflower meadow. The preserve is also home to large trees and mountain laurel.
Yes, there are restroom facilities available at the entrance area of Boyd Big Tree Preserve.
While many trails are interconnected, starting with flatter sections near the entrance or around the pond might be best for beginners. The 'Leg Crusher' segment is noted as extremely steep.
Some visitors have been seen fishing in the pond, but reviews suggest it's not particularly fruitful for catching notable fish.
The terrain varies, with some trails being quite steep and featuring loose scree. Other sections can be mucky, especially on the east side where a stream runs through.
📸 📸 Photography
The wildflower meadow, the large trees, and the scenic mountain laurel sections offer great photographic opportunities. The winding trails also provide picturesque scenes.
Yes, the preserve offers scenic mountain views and natural beauty, making it a good location for landscape photography, especially during spring and fall.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photography. Spring for wildflowers and fall for foliage are particularly scenic.
Yes, pets are allowed, and some visitors have brought their pets for photoshoots, like cats in backpacks.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on personal photography equipment. However, commercial photography or large-scale events might require permits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While some trails are steep, there are likely gentler paths suitable for younger children, especially closer to the entrance and around the pond. Remember to pack snacks and water, and ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes. Consider making a game out of spotting different types of trees or birds. The preserve's natural beauty provides an excellent backdrop for teaching children about conservation and the importance of large trees. The presence of restrooms and dog waste stations also adds to the convenience for family outings.
👟 Hikers and Trail Enthusiasts
Experienced hikers will appreciate the opportunity to explore different routes and discover hidden gems within the preserve. The well-marked trails ensure you can navigate the system effectively, but always carry a map or use a navigation app as a backup. The diverse landscape, from dense woods to open meadows, offers a dynamic hiking environment.
📸 Photographers
The preserve's namesake large trees and the beautiful mountain laurel offer excellent subjects for landscape and nature photography. Consider visiting during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting. Spring is ideal for wildflowers and lush greenery, while autumn provides stunning foliage. The winding trails themselves can also create compelling photographic compositions. Remember to bring appropriate gear and be respectful of the natural environment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Boyd Big Tree Preserve
For those seeking a more strenuous workout, the 'Leg Crusher Powerline Segment' is notorious for its extreme gradients, often exceeding 30%. This segment is a true test of endurance. However, the preserve also offers more accessible paths suitable for casual walkers and families. The well-marked nature of the trails, combined with their looping structure, makes it difficult to get truly lost, providing a sense of security for hikers of all experience levels.
When planning your hike, it's crucial to wear appropriate footwear. Sturdy hiking boots are highly recommended to handle the varied and sometimes slippery conditions. The preserve is a fantastic place to immerse yourself in nature, offering opportunities for both vigorous exercise and peaceful contemplation amidst the large trees and natural beauty.
Wildlife and Natural Beauty
Beyond the meadow, the preserve's pond is another focal point for nature enthusiasts. While some visitors have tried fishing here, it's more commonly a place to observe amphibians and enjoy a moment of tranquility. The mountain laurel found throughout the preserve is also a highlight, with some visitors noting it as some of the best they've seen anywhere, particularly when in bloom.
Bird watching and general wildlife spotting are popular activities. The diverse habitats within the preserve, from open meadows to wooded areas and the pond, support a variety of species. The crisp air and scenic surroundings make it an ideal location for those looking to connect with nature and appreciate Pennsylvania's natural landscapes.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit