Since it was originally established in 1982, The Nature Conservancy's Mary Macdonald Preserve at Horseshoe Harbor has grown to 1,200 acres, including five miles of Lake Superior shoreline. While the rugged bedrock beach here supports only the toughest of plants such as lichen, the preserve is home to 11 threatened or rare species.
Along the shoreline, a rocky ridge creates a barrier for inland species and slower-growing plants. Just inland from the rock beaches, the forest thrives in this cool, moist climate. Balsam fir, white cedar, white spruce and white birch provide habitat for the black bear, snowshoe hare, peregrine falcon, ruffed grouse, golden-crown kinglet, black-throated green warbler and yellow-rumped warbler. Hiking boots are definitely recommended for walking the trails!
Our free guided audio tour includes stories, fun facts, historical notes, and natural sounds to help deepen your connection to the Mary Macdonald Preserve. You can access the tour from the comfort of your home or onsite as you hike. More ways to explore can be found at nature.org/MIexplore.
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