Conservation Island

Conservation Island sits in Promised Land Lake and carries the park's easiest and most scenic short walk. The Conservation Island Loop circles the island for 1.01 miles, with lake views and benches along the way, and a 0.31-mile trail cuts through the middle. Both are rated Easiest and blazed blue, and a booklet from the park office turns the loop into a self-guided nature walk. Non-flush restrooms stand at the trailhead.

The Loop

The 1.01-mile loop stays close to the shore all the way around, so the lake is almost always in view through the trees. Benches give you places to stop and look out. Pick up the self-guided booklet at the park office before you go: it explains the natural features you pass at each stop.

Through the Middle

Conservation Island Trail is a 0.31-mile connector that winds through the center of the island and links to the loop, covered in the same booklet. Use it to shorten the walk or to see the island's interior woods.

Getting There

The island is shown at GPS 41.30654, -75.20472 on DCNR's park map. Use the map to find the access point and parking, since cell signal in the park is unreliable. See Parking & Directions.

In Winter

DCNR lists Conservation Island with the Bruce Lake Natural Area as the best trails at Promised Land for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, thanks to the gentle grade. Borrow snowshoes from the park office on weekdays once there are 6 inches of snow. See Winter.

Safe in Hunting Season

Conservation Island is one of the areas where hunting is never allowed, which makes it a good walk in late fall. See Hunting.

Good For

• Families with young kids and anyone wanting a flat, short walk.
• Winter skiing and snowshoeing.
• A quiet look at the lake from the benches.

Maybe Skip If

• You want waterfalls: go to Little Falls Trail.
• You want a long day hike: head for Bruce Lake.