Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Shickshinny Creek Preserve is located in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, covering a stretch of pristine aquatic and forest habitat along Shickshinny Creek, a tributary to the Susquehanna River. The preserve features mixed hardwood forests, riparian zones, and rich wetlands that support diverse plant and animal species. This area is important for conserving water quality and providing habitat for trout and other aquatic species. Historically, the region was influenced by logging and coal mining but has since been restored and protected to preserve natural ecology and recreational uses. Visitors to the preserve can enjoy quiet hiking along informal trails that follow the creek, with excellent spots for fly fishing, birdwatching, and nature study. The preserve’s proximity to small towns like Shickshinny and Benton makes it accessible yet relatively undisturbed. Shickshinny Creek and its environs provide refuge for local wildlife including deer, small mammals, and a variety of bird species, while the waterway sustains coldwater fish populations. The preserve appeals to anglers, hikers, and naturalists looking for a peaceful outdoor experience within northeastern Pennsylvania’s Appalachian foothills. It serves as an important local natural area for ecosystem protection and low-impact recreation.
