About Poor Farm Hill

A trail through the woods at Poor Farm Hill Wildlife Sanctuary

Poor Farm Hill Wildlife Sanctuary is part of a large mosaic of conservation land located in New Salem. The expansive area provides forest habitat for warblers and ground-nesting birds as well as large mammals including bobcat, black bear, and moose. 

Acres

53

Trail Mileage

0.94 miles
Details & map >

Sanctuary Highlights

  • Dense understory of native Mountain Laurel (Kalmia latifolia) found on the lower slope beneath the mixed hardwood and white pine forest.
  • Hemlock forest found in the cooler rocky area of the upper slope.
  • The headwaters of the Hop Brook watershed, a tributary to the Quabbin Reservoir (the public water supply for the Greater Boston area).
  • Young red maples with stripped bark—a sign of moose feeding.
  • Exposed ledges formed by past volcanic activity.

Location

Off of West Main Street, New Salem, 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