Nestled in the heart of Ambler, Pennsylvania, Four Mills Nature Reserve offers a tranquil escape into the embrace of nature. As the home of Wissahickon Trails’ historic headquarters, the Four Mills Barn, this 56-acre reserve boasts a rich history dating back to 1891. Designed by Philadelphia architect Horace Trumbauer as part of the “Abendruh” estate, the barn now serves as a gateway to the reserve’s natural wonders.
Two Trails, One Destination: Nature’s Embrace
Four Mills Nature Reserve invites visitors to explore two enchanting trails that meander along the scenic Wissahickon Creek. Both trails, each spanning approximately 0.5 miles, are seamlessly integrated into the larger Green Ribbon Trail. The journey commences at the Four Mills Barn, where visitors can access information and interact with knowledgeable staff during weekdays.
As you embark on your hike, you’ll traverse two bridges that gracefully cross the Wissahickon Creek, where the trail then diverges. A left turn leads to the Rotary Bridge, connecting to the Borough of Ambler, while a right turn guides you towards the Rose Rubenstein Stepping Stone Crossing, established in 2011 to link the reserve with Germantown Academy.
A Tapestry of Natural Beauty
The trails wind through the Wissahickon Creek’s picturesque floodplain, characterized by lush wooded areas and a diverse array of trees. Hikers can marvel at the towering red maples, box elders, sycamores, bitternut hickories, and American elms that grace the canopy. In the springtime, the forest floor comes alive with vibrant wildflowers like wild leek, trout lily, and jack-in-the-pulpit.
Several local creeks, including Prophecy Creek, Stuart Farm Creek, and Spring Run, converge with the Wissahickon Creek at Four Mills, creating a haven for dragonflies and damselflies. As you immerse yourself in the serene ambiance, you might even catch a glimpse of Eastern Box turtles or hear the melodic calls of green and pickerel frogs and American toads. During the summer months, keep an eye out for the majestic red-shouldered hawks that nest within the reserve.
A Wetland Wonderland
Venturing towards the southeastern portion of Four Mills, near Morris Road, you’ll encounter a sprawling wetland area teeming with life. Here, native plants like skunk cabbage, tussock sedge, floating manna grass, and sharp-fruited rush thrive in the moist environment. The wetland also serves as a sanctuary for a variety of amphibians and reptiles, including two-lined and red-backed salamanders, as well as northern ring-necked and northern water snakes, both of which are non-venomous to humans.
Plan Your Visit Today
Four Mills Nature Reserve is easily accessible by car or public transportation, with convenient parking available and the Ambler Station on the SEPTA Regional Rail Lansdale-Doylestown Line providing access for those using public transit. Before you embark on your adventure, be sure to check the Wissahickon Trails website for trail maps, directions, and general trail rules and information.
Whether you’re seeking a peaceful stroll amidst nature’s beauty, a chance to observe diverse wildlife, or a moment of quiet reflection, Four Mills Nature Reserve offers an enriching experience for all. Plan your visit today and discover the hidden treasures that await you along the Wissahickon Creek.
