Florence Shelly Nature Preserve | Wetlands, Wildlife & Trails in Thompson
Florence Shelly Nature Preserve in Thompson spans 357 acres of protected land in Susquehanna County’s Endless Mountains. This unique preserve is home to forests, meadows, streams, and wetlands, including a glacial pond surrounded by a floating bog. Managed by a dedicated stewardship committee and supported by The Nature Conservancy, the preserve invites visitors to explore its diverse landscapes year-round.
Trails & Natural Features
The preserve offers several hiking trails, including an easy-access boardwalk beginning near Little Ireland Road. This path winds through hemlock forest and leads to a marsh overlook. Seasonal walks, led by volunteers from May through October, highlight the area’s natural diversity. Wildlife is abundant—visitors may spot playful otters in the streams, hummingbirds among wildflowers, or great-horned owls in the woods. The wetlands also support carnivorous plants and a wide range of amphibians.
Birding & Conservation
Birders will find Florence Shelly a rewarding stop, with more than 100 species recorded. Northern waterthrushes, white-throated sparrows, and blackpoll warblers are among the highlights. The Pennsylvania Game Commission recognizes the preserve as an Important Birding Site due to its diverse habitats and elevation range. Community science projects through iNaturalist encourage visitors to log sightings of birds, plants, insects, and mammals, contributing to ongoing conservation work.
Visiting Information
Florence Shelly Preserve is open to the public year-round from dawn to dusk, though dogs are not permitted. Deer hunting is allowed seasonally in cooperation with the Pennsylvania Game Commission. Trail guides are available at the Stack Road access point, helping visitors navigate the property’s scenic paths.
With its wetlands, wildlife, and trails, Florence Shelly Nature Preserve in Thompson delivers an inspiring glimpse of NEPA’s natural heritage.
