About Wachusett Meadow

Boy walking in a stream at Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary

Wachusett Meadow is a former farmstead that offers spectacular scenery and supports abundant wildlife throughout woodlands, wetlands, and meadows. Historic buildings and barns are still in use for educational programming and resident sheep graze pastures.

Our trails traverse many landscape features including Brown Hill Summit, Glacial Boulder, ancient trees, and beaver ponds.

Location

113 Goodnow Road, Princeton, MA 01541
Get directions or contact us >

Hours

Nature Center

Tuesday–Friday, 10 am–2 pm • Saturday, 10 am–4 pm • Sunday, 11 am–3 pm

Trails & Restrooms

Open daily, dawn to dusk

Admission

Members & Princeton residents: Free
Nonmembers: $4 adults, $3 seniors (65+), $3 children (2-12)

As a way to give even more people access to nature and to thank active military for their service, we are proud to offer:

EBT Participants: Free for up to 4 people when you show your EBT card
ConnectorCare Card to Culture Participants: Free for up to 4 people when you show your ConnectorCare card
Wonderfund Access: Free for up to 4 people when you show your Wonderfund card
Active-Duty Military: Free for up to 5 people with a valid military ID card

Facilities

Acres

1,135

Trail Mileage

12 miles (universally accessible: 1,200 feet) 
Get details & map >

Sanctuary Highlights

  • Remarkably peaceful setting including scenic overlooks, expansive views, benches along many trails, and a great habitat diversity.
  • Seasonal snowshoe & canoe rentals available for use on sanctuary trails and Wildlife Pond . 
  • Many options for short or extended hiking, and connections to Wachusett Mountain and the Midstate Trail.
  • Seasonal special events, summer camp, and year-round educational programs for preschoolers to adults.
  • Indoor and outdoor facility rentals offering scenic, natural setting for family events, retreats, and other gatherings.