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Saunders Woods Preserve
Lower Merion Township
Montgomery County, PA
25 Acres
Paul Claypoole, Preserve Manager
1020 Waverly Road
Gladwyne, PA 19035
610-520-9197
Access an Online Map through Mapquest

Saunders Woods Preserve is a 25-acre natural oasis for wildlife and community residents in the heart of the Main Line. The Bridlewild Trail passes through the preserve and connects to a wider system of paths that wind through the community. A walk here reveals a lively forest habitat as well as an open meadow that is home to a variety of bird species.

History
Lawrence Saunders purchased this 25-acre property known as Little Farm in 1922, with the purpose of maintaining it as open space for the enjoyment of the residents of Gladwyne. Although they never resided here, the Saunders took an active role in directing the activities and management of the property. Longtime neighbors recall square dances in the barn, daffodil-planting parties, and attending day camp at Saunders Woods. In 1988, Lawrence's widow, Dorothy, donated the property to Natural Lands Trust.

Highlights
Trails
1.5 miles of unpaved trails ranging from easy to moderate
Birds
Birds include Eastern Bluebird, American Goldfinch, and Pileated Woodpecker
Animals
Animals include red fox, American toad, and box turtle
Horses
Horseback riding on designated trails under good conditions (not wet or muddy); horse trailers are not permitted
Grasslands
Cool-season agricultural grass meadows
Forests
Woodlands with tuliptree, oak, and beech; wildflowers in the spring such as mayapple, spring-beauty, and trout-lily
Water
An unnamed tributary to the Schuylkill River runs through the preserve

Facilities

The Preserve is from sunrise to sunset.

  • Trails
  • Parking
  • Information Kiosk (by the parking lot)
  • Preserve Guide (available at the kiosk)
  • Interpretive Signs
  • The historic 1800s barn at Saunders Woods is available for rent for company picnics, birthday parties, Scout groups, and other activities for a nominal fee. The barn includes a full kitchen, indoor and outdoor dining area, and restrooms For more information, call 610-520-9197.

Rules and Regulations
Saunders Woods is open for passive recreational activities from sunrise to sunset. It is a private nature preserve. We hope that you will respect its many residents--whether plant or animal--and ask that you follow these guidelines.
  • Pets are permitted; however, you must keep your pet leashed at all times and clean up your animal's waste.
  • Walk only on designated trails.
  • The area around the house is off limits to visitors. Please respect the privacy of the residents.
  • Take everything that you bring onto the preserve with you when you leave.
  • Do not remove any plants, animals, rocks, or artifacts.
  • No alcoholic beverages.
  • No motorized vehicles or mountain bikes.
  • Horseback riding is permitted on designated trails under good conditions. Please ride to and from the Preserve, we cannot accomodate horse trailers.
Thank You!

Saunders Woods Preserve