Cranesville Swamp details

This is a large preserve with many miles of boundary line, so we are looking for multiple Boundary Walkers. Some of the lines are easy to reach, as they are on roadsides, but most are not. Many of the lines have a definite back-country feel to them. The elevation of the lines ranges from 2560 -2940 feet, sometimes climbing quite quickly, so there are some lines that require walking up steep hills. There are some areas where the line goes through wet boggy areas as well, so there is a lot of scenic variety at this preserve. Part of the preserve is in West Virginia.

Most of the lines are in good shape as of November 2006 because we have had our local crew relocating and remarking them after many years of neglect. We hope our new volunteers can get out on the ground soon while the lines are still clear and visible and keep them in good shape in the coming years.

This preserve is hunted by local hunters during legal deer season season only (see DNR website for each year's schedule). So although autumn and winter, when the trees are bare, is the handiest time to do boundary work, most of us are more comfortable avoiding the preserve during deer season. In this cool part of the state fall comes earlier and spring comes later than elsehere in Maryland, giving us a longer season for boundary work.

This preserve has an information kiosk, a marked trail, and a boardwalk, which are sometimes vandalized although they are currently monitored by a local volunteer. We try to keep the brochure boxes filled but have posted all information on line as well. If you plan a fun walk after your boundary work, be sure to download copies and bring them with you.

Preserve Brochure

Trail Guide