At a glance
Size: 85.8 Acres
Habitat: Hardwood forests and wetlands.
Trails: Yes.
Notable birds seen: Alder Flycatcher, Ruffed Grouse.
Parking: Yes*.
Facilities on site: NA
eBird: https://ebird.org/hotspot/L5853813
Additional Notes
*This sanctuary is land-locked and can only be accessed by foot. There is space for several cars near the train tracks by Altamont Tower Rd.
Caroline W. Wilson Sanctuary (Garrett County)
In 1988, MOS received this 85.8-acre Sanctuary as a gift from The Nature Conservancy. Located at the headwaters of the Little Youghiogheny River, it has a high-quality stream running through it fed by five smaller streams. It is entirely wooded with some shrubby wetlands near the southern end. The forested land consists of a mesic hardwood community grading into drier White Oak woods. About one-fourth is wetlands.
The property is land-locked with the only access to it from the railroad tracks that run parallel to the north boundary. Neighbors of the Sanctuary have maintained an old road on the property for use as a dirt bike and ATV trail. Though this is not an ideal situation, we would not have trails without their intervention. As such, MOS has developed a symbiotic relationship with the neighbors.
Directions to Caroline W. Wilson Sanctuary
From I-70 W | |||
Exit onto I-68 W/40 W toward Cumberland | 58 miles | ||
Exit onto US 219 N | 0.6 miles | ||
Turn left onto Chestnut Ridge Rd. | 2.7 miles | ||
Turn left onto New Germany Rd. | 9.8 miles | ||
Turn left onto MD 495 S | 10 miles | ||
Turn left onto MD 135 | 0.5 miles | ||
Turn right onto Altamont Tower Rd. | 0.4 miles | ||
Turn right toward train tracks. Parking is available on the right.
Donate to the MOS Sanctuary Fund
Sanctuary Fund Donation Form
The Maryland Ornithological Society (MOS) appreciates donations designated to the Sanctuary Fund, which supports the ongoing maintenance and operations of the ten MOS sanctuaries, as well as for acquisition of additional lands. MOS is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization and all donations are tax-deductible.