About Flat Rock

Stone wall at Mass Audubon Flat Rock Wildlife Sanctuary, © Rosemary Mosco, Mass Audubon

Flat Rock Wildlife Sanctuary is just minutes from downtown Fitchburg. And yet the hustling sounds of the city fade into a chorus of songbirds, rustling leaves, and zipping dragonflies.

This wooded area provides habitat for species needing relatively large territories such as fisher, coyote, and red fox. Bobcat and black bear occasionally travel through these woods over rocky ledges and through hemlock groves.

Acres

326

Trail Mileage

6 miles
Details & map >

Sanctuary Highlights

  • The trails that travel through various habitats such as bedrock "balds," hemlock forest, and mixed  hardwoods.
  • Adjacent to additional protected lands with more trails to enjoy, owned by the North County Land Trust and the Fitchburg Water Department.
  • Programs occasionally offered through Wachusett Meadow and Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuaries.

Location

85 Burbank Street, Fitchburg, MA 
Get directions or contact us >

Hours & Admission

Trails: Open daily, dawn to dusk
Free, donations appreciated

Property Regulations

All of the land at our wildlife sanctuaries is protected. By conserving these open spaces, Mass Audubon, along with our members and partners, is able to fulfill its mission of protecting the nature of Massachusetts.  

  • No dog walking or horseback riding; please leave all animals and pets at home (service animals welcome) 
  • No walking off trail  
  • No collecting or picking natural items.  
  • No bike riding or operating motorized vehicles; day passes are available for powered mobility devices   
  • No running, swimming, or camping 
  • No operating drones or other remote-controlled vehicles   
  • No fishing, hunting, trapping, or releasing of animals   
  • No feeding wildlife   
  • No smoking