Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve

Last summer we had the opportunity to go through Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve on our way from Washington Crossing Historic Park back to New Hope, PA (read all the things you can do with kids in the Lambertville/New Hope area here).

Unfortunately for us it was past the peak spring flower season, which is why I urge you to go now! Even without the maximum number of flowers, though, it’s a beautiful place I’d like to spend more time. The best views for us, ironically, were at the entrance – ironically before we entered to pay. See what’s in bloom before you go.

We saw a ton of butterflies.

Lots of butterfiles at Bowman's Hill Preserve. Copyright Deborah Abrams Kaplan
Lots of butterfiles at Bowman’s Hill Preserve. Copyright Deborah Abrams Kaplan

In the preserve there are hiking trails and peaceful areas to sit and walk.

The canal bridge very close to Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve. Copyright Deborah Abrams Kaplan
The canal bridge very close to Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve. Copyright Deborah Abrams Kaplan
The wildflower meadow before you enter the preserve. Copyright Deborah Abrams Kaplan
The wildflower meadow before you enter the preserve. Copyright Deborah Abrams Kaplan
Another butterfly and flowers. Copyright Deborah Abrams Kaplan
Another butterfly and flowers. Copyright Deborah Abrams Kaplan
More flowers! Copyright Deborah Abrams Kaplan
More flowers! Copyright Deborah Abrams Kaplan

If you go:

Bowman’s Hill Preserve: They’re open from 8:30-sunset. Cost is $5/adults, $2/kids 4-14, free for kids under 4. If you’re short on time, it’s still worth a 30-60 minute visit. If you have longer, you can meander around more. There’s not much to do there aside from walking around, but it’s pretty. Maybe bring sketch books or paint and let the kids draw/paint what they see. They have wildflower walks Tuesday through Sunday at 2 – included in the fee. They also have Discovery Trail backpacks you can borrow to keep the kids engaged and learning. There are picnic grounds at the initial meadow.

by Deborah Abrams Kaplan