Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary
Ipswich River offers 12 miles of trails that invite you to explore the forests, meadows, wetlands, drumlin, and esker. You can also travel down the namesake river, which meanders through the sanctuary, by canoe. Whether exploring by foot or paddle, you will marvel at the diversity of wildlife, especially bird species; the sanctuary is part of the Eastern Essex County Interior Forest Important Bird Area. Read more>
HOURS: Tue–Fri, 9 am-4 pm; Sat–Sun & Mon holidays, 9 am-5 pm; closed Mon
TRAILS: Tue–Sun, dawn to dusk; closed Mon
Sanctuary News & Events
Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary
Join us for a guided walk along our Halloween trail, home to some interesting creatures that come out just for this event!
Join us on October 26 to enjoy a naturalist-guided hike under the full Hunter's Moon followed by a hard-cider tasting with Downeast Cider! Must be age 21 or older to attend.
Please join us in giving a warm welcome to Ipswich River's new director, Amy Weidensaul. "I grew up in Massachusetts and, after a long career with the National Audubon Society in Maryland and Pennsylvania, I’m returning home," says Amy.
Upcoming Programs
Nature Preschool
Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary's nature preschool for 3-5 year olds features a nature-based, emergent curriculum which promotes language, math, and social development. Choose from two, three, or five day options. Learn More
Learn from a Nature Guide
Volunteer docents are available from Labor Day through Memorial Day to teach and guide visitors at Mass Audubon Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary for free. Learn More
