About Marblehead Neck

Boardwalk at Mass Audubon Marblehead Neck Wildlife Sanctuary

It's not uncommon to spot unusual birds at Marblehead Neck, located in the center of a peninsula that extends into Massachusetts Bay. Its swamp, thickets, and woodlands are a haven for migratory birds—especially warblers—during the spring and fall migrations.

Location

Risley Road, Marblehead, MA 
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Hours & Admission

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

Facilities 

Parking is limited.
No bathroom facilities onsite.

Acres

20

Trails

0.85 miles
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Sanctuary Highlights

  • Black-crowned Night-Herons in early spring or sunning Painted Turtles.
  • Rocky outcropping uphill on the Warbler Trail, a good area to scan for birds in the trees below and the sky above.
  • Migrating songbirds resting in the trees during spring and fall.
  • Seasonal walks and programs conducted through Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary.

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