“We have lived on this forested acreage for 30 years and over that time we have seen the patterns of nature play out year after year. The small violet butterflies that navigate the airspace largely within 18 inches of the Earth, the immediate rush to "get to it" by all the insect traffic as soon as the frost wanes, the cycle of lifeforms repeating the same order they marched to last year and year before and centuries before that. Nature does not wait, it has a busy schedule and our 30 years of watching have caused us to have an immense appreciation for this very intricately interwoven scheme. The greatest show in, above, and on the Earth. And it's all right outside our window.
This is at the center of that which drives us to create this 130-acre Hertzberg Nature Preserve. Before I departed from the planet, I wanted to know what having my feet on the Earth was all about. I want the same for my son and his son, and on. Like Winnie the Pooh, this 100-acre Wood will be watched over and stewarded to remain the home of Laot Su's 10,000 things.”
-Bill Hertzberg
Welcome to the Hertzberg Wilderness Preserve, a sprawling 130-acre sanctuary nestled in the heart of the rugged and pristine Northern Idaho wilderness. This extraordinary nature preserve is a testament to the dedication and passion of the Hertzberg family, who have lovingly managed and nurtured the land for over 30 years, creating a haven for both the flora and fauna that call this place home.
As you step into this remarkable natural refuge, you'll be immediately enveloped in a serene and untouched wilderness that seems to transcend time. Towering pine trees stretch their branches toward the sky, forming a dense canopy that provides shade and shelter to the countless creatures that inhabit this pristine landscape.
The heart of the preserve is a network of well-maintained hiking trails that wind their way through dense forests, across trickling springs, and into tranquil meadows. Diverse and abundant animal species call this preserve their home. Majestic herds of deer and elk interact with meandering moose and roam freely through the forests, grazing on lush vegetation and captivating us with their grace and beauty. Black bears and cougars, the secretive lords of the wilderness, patrol the preserve's perimeters. The preserve is home to diverse bird species.
The Hertzberg family's unwavering commitment to preserving the natural beauty of this land is evident in every corner of the preserve. They have worked tirelessly to remove invasive species, restore native plants, and maintain a delicate balance in the ecosystem. Their dedication to conservation has resulted in a thriving, biodiverse environment where wildlife flourishes and native flora thrives.
This 130-acre Northern Idaho Wilderness Preserve is not only a sanctuary for the incredible wildlife and plant life it harbors but also a testament to the enduring spirit of stewardship and love for the land. Whether you come to hike, observe wildlife, or simply find solace in the untouched wilderness, this preserve invites you to connect with nature and experience the unspoiled beauty of Northern Idaho. It is a place where time seems to stand still, and the wonders of the natural world are on full display, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and conservationists alike.
Bull Moose
A bull moose meanders through our upper-meadow after bedding down in the tall summer grass.
Bobcat Family
A bobcat mother accompanies her two cubs along a preserve roadway toward their den.