Originally established as a private game preserve in 1901 by General Harry C. Trexler to save the American Bison from extinction.
The preserve is home to the last remaining herd of elk in Lehigh County.
It sits on a significant geological formation known as the 'Trexler Slate Belt'.
The area features a dedicated 2.5-mile mountain bike trail system known as the 'Labyrinth'.
Over 100 species of birds have been identified within the preserve boundaries during migratory seasons.
The Jordan Creek flows through the preserve, providing a riparian habitat for trout and other aquatic species.
The property transitioned from a private reserve to a public county park system in the 1970s.
The North Range is designated as a protected 'Forever Wild' zone, limiting human intervention.
Trexler Nature Preserve is an expansive 1,100-acre tract located in Lehigh County, Pennsylvania, known for its diverse topography and historical role as a former private game preserve. The site features the Jordan Creek and covers rolling hills, limestone cliffs, and hardwood forests. It serves as an ecological sanctuary for local wildlife, including deer and various bird species. The preserve offers an extensive network of multi-use trails, including segments of the Ironton Rail Trail and specialized mountain biking courses. It is divided into three distinct areas: the North Range, Central Range, and South Range. The landscape is a mix of restored meadows and mature forests, facilitating educational opportunities for local conservation efforts. The park is managed by Lehigh County and maintains strict conservation protocols to protect its natural resources.
The elevated limestone bluffs in the North Range overlooking the Jordan Creek valley.
Bring a physical map or download offline GPS maps as cellular signal is intermittent in deep valleys.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe hiking boots, as the terrain features loose shale and steep incline shifts.
Check the county's official trail status page before visiting to ensure trails are not closed due to heavy rain or mud.
Venturing off-trail during hunting season without high-visibility clothing and ignoring posted warning signs regarding unstable cliff edges.
Stay on marked trails to protect sensitive limestone habitats, carry out all trash, and keep dogs leashed at all times.
