MONKTON — From March 1 to June 15, a portion of the Raven Ridge hiking trail at the top of the ridge will be closed. The Nature Conservancy owns and manages the 365-acre Raven Ridge Natural Area, spanning the towns of Charlotte, Monkton, and Hinesburg. Visitors can enjoy walking on the trails year-round at Raven Ridge, with the exception of the portion listed above during the stated dates.
In the spring, the ridge provides important habitat for ravens and bobcats who are raising their young. The rocky outcrops offer prime nesting habitat for ravens and the rock formations create caves and shelter that host known bobcat dens. These animals are particularly vulnerable to disturbance at this time, so stay off of the closed portion of the trail. The fully accessible boardwalk, accessible trail, and much of the rest of the hiking trail going through the preserve and up to “The Oven” and first lookout is still open.
As always at Raven Ridge, please leave the pets at home. Thank you to visitors for letting nature come first.