About Blue Hills Trailside Museum

Baby owl at Blue Hills Trailside Museum
© Joan Moore

Operated in partnership with the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, Blue Hills Trailside Museum is the interpretive center for the state-owned Blue Hills Reservation.

The sanctuary features a natural history museum and outdoor exhibits of native wildlife. The animals on display—including Snowy Owls and a River Otter—have been rescued and would not survive in the wild.

Location

1904 Canton Ave, Milton, MA 02186
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Hours

  • Outdoor Exhibits: Open Saturday–Sunday, 10:00 am-4:00 pm (ticket reservations required)
  • Museum & Restrooms: Closed

Facilities

  • Parking

Acres

Within the 7,000-acre Blue Hills Reservation

Trail Mileage

125 miles via Blue Hills Reservation

Sanctuary Highlights

  • Programs and special events for all ages, plus live presentations featuring native wildlife.
  • Summer camp to discover nature through hands-on exploration, creative play, and active learning.
  • Universally accessible guided trail experience including a rope guide and educational materials in large-print, Braille, audio, and tactile formats.
  • Gift shop that carries backyard birding items, Blue Hills souvenirs, a variety of field guides, handmade jewelry, eco-friendly gifts, and much more.
  • Home base for the Snowy Owl Project, which collects migratory and physical data on wintering Snowy Owls.
  • Private function and event space in the auditorium and atop scenic Chickatawbut Hill, the second highest peak in the Blue Hills Reservation.