Saunders Woods Preserve
There’s a lot of diversity packed into this little gem of a nature preserve located in the heart of the Main Line.
about Saunders Woods Preserve
Saunders Woods Preserve is a 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.
background
Donated to Natural Lands in 1988 by Dorothy Saunders, the property—originally known as “Little Farm”—has long been a place of refuge for both people and wildlife. For decades, the preserve’s trails and circa-1830 barn have welcomed families, students, scout troops, equestrians, and community members; the forest and meadows are home to a myriad of songbird species and other wildlife.
Address
1020 Waverly Road
Gladwyne, PA 19035
directions
Visitor Hours
Thursday-Tuesday: dawn to dusk Closed Wednesdays visitor guidelines
Features
Hiking
Seasonal Hunting
what to expect
A 12-car paved and gravel parking lot is at the preserve entrance, 8/10 of a mile northeast of Morris Avenue on Waverly Road.
Parking is free.
Accessible parking: Sorry, there is no accessible parking.
Trail surfaces: Trails are unpaved and range from grassy meadow trails to dirt woodland trails with some rocks and tree roots. Some trails include bridges or stream crossings. The grade ranges from flat to rolling hills to steep slopes.
Areas with gentle or no slope: From the parking lot, there is access to a 1/4 mile mostly flat, grassy trail. Turn left info meadow from parking lot and follow the loop that goes around the meadow on a mowed pathway.
Benches and rest areas: There are benches throughout the preserve.
Motorized wheelchairs and other power-driven mobility devices are welcome for visitors with disabilities.
Service animals providing assistance for visitors with disabilities are welcome.
Learn more about accessibility at Natural Lands. accessibility
Sorry, there are no restrooms or drinking fountains.
The barn is open for scheduled events.
Trails are through both sunny meadows and shady woodlands and some include bridges or stream crossings. Trails connect to township parks in Gladwyne and Bryn Mawr via the Bridlewild Trail. Check out the AllTrails app or website to find trail elevation, lengths, and reviews. Saunders Woods on AllTrails
- Leashes required. Pets are permitted but must be leashed at all times to keep people, other pets, and wildlife safe. No exceptions. Violators may be asked to leave.
- Leave no trace. Please leave all plants, flowers, animals, rocks, and artifacts for all visitors to enjoy.
- Take your trash. Please pick up all trash, even biodegradable materials like food scraps.
- Stick to trails. Please stay on designated trails to protect fragile plants, prevent erosion or wildlife disturbance, and reduce the chance of tick-borne illnesses.
- No motorized vehicles or mountain bikes. Motorized wheelchairs and other power-driven mobility devices are welcome for visitors with disabilities.
- No hunting, trapping, or fishing.
- No drones or professional photography.
- No picnicking or alcohol.
- Vibrant and diverse birds
- Wildflower meadows
- Stream and wetland areas
photo gallery
Saunders Woods Preserve is a natural oasis for wildlife and visitors. A walk here reveals a lively forest and meadow habitat.
Art Along The Trails
December 10, 2024
By Kit Werner, Senior Director of Communications. Saunders Woods Preserve in Gladwyne welcomed a collection of original paintings by local artist Ann Hopkins Wilson earlier […]
