Yankauer Preserve

The Yankauer Preserve is a blend of oak forests surrounded by glades of red cedar and dense thickets of fast-growing shrubs and trees. As you move into the center of the property you find a more mature forest of large oaks and maples growing amid limestone outcrops and sinkholes. The eastern edge of the property is a bluff overlooking the Potomac River. The mixed habitat makes the area ideal for birding. The preserve is a hot spot for spring wildflower displays, as well as sighting warblers on migration.

Hiking

Three well-marked trails take the visitor through a variety of habitat types on the preserve. The Kingfisher Trail, South Trail and Dan Fisher Trail all loop, and one can walk a large circle across the property. 

Visit the Potomac Valley Audubon Society (PVAS) to download a trail map.

Please wear proper hiking shoes and take along plenty of water. You will probably want to wear a long-sleeved shirt and pants. During the growing months, poison ivy is plentiful in some areas of the preserve. 

What to See: Plants

At least 105 species of plants have been identified on the preserve. Clusters of wildflowers such as Dutchmen's breeches, jack-in-the-pulpit, hepatica and twinleaf are easily found in the spring. The autumn fruits of paw paw trees provide a snack for wild animals and not-so-wild hikers alike.

What to See: Animals

There is equal diversity among the animals on the preserve. Spring migration of waterfowl can be spectacular along the river. Breeding season welcomes sweet-singing warblers and vireos as they nest among the cedars. Barred owls are often heard as they cry out in search of a mate.