Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve: Wildflowers, Trails, & Historic Buildings in Latrobe

 

Pleasant and easily accessible areas to enjoy nature are critical for any community to become more united and relaxed. The Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve is a beautiful 50 acre tract of land that is otherwise surrounded by retail development on one side, the bustling intersection of Route 981 and US 30/Lincoln Highway, and the sprawling green campus of St Vincent's College on the other. This tract of land was threatened with suburban retail sprawl in the late 90s and Winnie Palmer, Arnold Palmer's wife, who served on the board of St. Vincent's, wanted this tract of land preserved for nature and the view of the beautiful St. Vincent's campus. After her death, her dream was realized. Since then, two miles of trails have been added throughout the property, historic structures have been preserved, and environmental education programs have taken root. Much of the property consists of beautiful flowery meadows that really pop in late summer and early autumn. 

This property is a community gathering place and also a wonderful place for nearby college students at St. Vincent's College to go and walk around at and relax. The barn was relocated and rebuilt here, and dates back to 1879. 

The Lochry Blockhouse on site dates back to the 1780s and was thought to be lost but was rediscovered in the early 2000s. During the Great Depression, a second floor was added to the building, hiding its old appearance. It was then painstakingly disassembled and rebuilt to original specs in its same original location. 

We definitely recommend checking out this nice public park area. It is very easy to see if you are traveling along the Route 30/Lincoln Highway Corridor.