About North Hill Marsh

Common Yellowthroat at North Hill Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary
Common Yellowthroat

North Hill Marsh can best be described as a sanctuary within a refuge. Situated within Duxbury’s Eastern Greenbelt, 1,000 acres of contiguous open space, the sanctuary’s oak and pine woodlands, wetlands, and 90-acre pond provide habitat for wildlife, especially migratory waterfowl.

A clearly marked trail system circles the pond and travels through Duxbury Town Forest.

Location

Mayflower Street, Duxbury, MA 
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Hours & Admission

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

Facilities

Parking

Acres

146

Trails

5 miles
Details & map >

Sanctuary Highlights

  • Snapping and Painted, as well as the more rare Spotted and Box turtles, often seen in the wooded and shore areas.
  • A variety of birds such as Ring-necked and Black ducks, Buffleheads, Hooded Mergansers, herons, Kingfishers, and egrets congregate around the pond.
  • Approximately 100 pairs of Tree Swallows that inhabit the nesting boxes placed throughout the marsh.
  • Mink along the water’s edge and muskrat and otters in the pond.

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