Cannery Road
Coatesville, PA 19320
David Castaneda
610-486-6288
Parking:
1. Across from 1199 Cannery Road
2. Rt 162/Embreeville Road 1/4 mile north of Kelsall Road
The 1,263-acre ChesLen Preserve—one of the largest private nature preserves in southeastern Pennsylvania—features sweeping agricultural fields, densely wooded stream corridors, and rare serpentine barrens. There are many points on the property from which visitors can gaze for miles in any direction and see virtually no signs of modern development.
In 2010, The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (PA DCNR) designated portions of ChesLen Preserve—specifically the Unionville Barrens—as a “Pennsylvania Wild Plant Sanctuary.” The program encourages the conservation of natural areas and native plants, and recognizes private landowners who serve as models of good conservation and stewardship of these special resources.
Highlights
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Nearly 12 miles of unpaved trails ranging from easy to moderate |
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Birds include Indigo Bunting, Downy Woodpecker, and Green-backed Heron. ChesLen is part of the Laurels, King Ranch, and Stroud “Important Bird Area” (a National Audubon Society designation). |
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Horseback riding on designated trails under good conditions (not wet or muddy); horse trailers are not permitted |
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Kayaking/canoeing permitted (call for more information) |
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9 acres of serpentine barrens, a rare habitat for at least 15 plant species of special concern in Pennsylvania |
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Native grass meadows with broomsedge, little bluestem, and Indian-grass |
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2 miles of the West Branch of the Brandywine Creek |
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Agricultural fields of soybean and hay |
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Stargazer’s Stone, a reference point from which Mason and Dixon made measurements as part of their historic surveying expedition |
Amenities
Trail Map (print before you go)
Trail Map
