How to Make the Most of the Longest Day of the Year
For centuries, people around the world have celebrated the solstice, and for good reason. Not only does this day mark the official start of summer, but it also features 15 hours of daylight between sunrise and sunset—the longest stretch of the year.
To soak up every ray of light, check out these fun-in-the-sun wildlife sanctuary highlights and activities.
1. Catch the Sunrise at Eastern Point, Gloucester
Kick off the summer solstice with an early sunrise walk at Eastern Point. This coastal gem features a short trail leading to dramatic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the iconic Eastern Point Lighthouse.
2. Ferry to Felix Neck on Martha’s Vineyard
Day trip anyone? It can be tough to get away for extended periods of time, but one long action-packed day trip to Martha’s Vineyard has got to be on your shortlist for solstice adventures. Catch an early ferry out to visit Felix Neck in Edgartown; the 194-acre wildlife sanctuary features trails through woodlands, meadows, and along Sengekontacket Pond. From the Vineyard Haven Ferry, you can catch the #1 MVTA bus or drive or bike approximately 5 miles to the sanctuary.
3. Double the Discovery: Wachusett Meadow to Broad Meadow Brook
Take advantage of the long day by checking two sanctuaries off your Adventure Map. Start your day at Wachusett Meadow in Princeton to meander through woodlands, wetlands, and meadows, ending with a lunchtime picnic at the tables overlooking the resident grazing sheep. Then, travel approximately 30 minutes to Broad Meadow Brook in Worcester, New England's largest urban wildlife sanctuary at over 400 acres of greenspace.
4. Traverse Extensive Trails at Moose Hill, Sharon
Moose Hill boasts Mass Audubon's most extensive trail network, with 20 miles of scenic paths and boardwalks through swamps, meadows, ledges, and more. The extra daylight gives you ample opportunity to cover as much ground as you can, see as much wildlife as possible, and make your way to the top of picturesque lookout points.
5. Contemplate Time at the Sundial at Ipswich River, Topsfield
Along Ipswich River’s Bradstreet Lane Trail near the Visitor Center, you'll find a thoughtfully placed sundial. This timeless instrument invites visitors to reflect on the passage of time and the sun's journey across the sky—especially poignant on the solstice. Note the shadow’s position, then continue on to Averill’s Island and the White Pine Loop. Can you figure out how much time you spent exploring just by its shadow?
6. Savor a Beach Day at Long Pasture, Barnstable
What better way to spend a sun-drenched day than at the beach? Hike through Long Pasture’s 2.5 miles of gentle trails through coastal meadows to the sandy shores of Barnstable Harbor. Enjoy sweeping views of Sandy Neck Barrier Beach, listen to the lapping waves, and bask in the sun's warmth as it arcs across the open landscape.
7. Get Closer to the Sun by Hiking Lenox Mountain at Pleasant Valley, Lenox
Challenge yourself with a hike to the summit of Lenox Mountain at Pleasant Valley —Mass Audubon’s highest peak. The 3-mile round-trip Trail of the Ledges climbs to an elevation gain of 850-feet, culminating in breathtaking views of Mount Greylock to the north, the Taconic Range to the west, and the Catskill Mountains of New York to the southwest.
8. Appreciate Solar Artistry at Drumlin Farm, Lincoln
At Drumlin Farm, take note of the poignant Sun Birds solar sculpture as you pass the Nature Center and enter the trail system down into the farm. Designed by kinetic sculptor Gregory Curci, this towering installation features red metal bird wings that gracefully move with the sun's power. Try covering the photovoltaic panel with your hands or body. Can you change the sculpture’s movement by using yourself as a shadow?
9. Witness Solar Power at Boston Nature Center, Mattapan
Boston Nature Center stands as a testament to sustainable design and the power of the sun, having achieved net-zero carbon emissions. The sanctuary's George Robert White Environmental Conservation Center is equipped with rooftop and ground-mounted solar panels, producing more energy than it consumes. On the solstice, visit the Boston Nature Center to consider how harnessing the sun's power contributes to a brighter and greener future.
10. Embrace the Expansive Sunset at Wellfleet Bay, South Wellfleet
Wellfleet Bay’s boardwalk trails weave through salt marshes and coastal meadows, leading to panoramic views of Cape Cod Bay. The flat, open terrain provides unobstructed vistas of the sky—ideal for observing the sun's path and soaking in the solstice light. The western water views are also perfect for catching the late sunset, wrapping what is sure to be a memorable day well spent.
Plan Your Solstice Adventure
From the Cape to the Berkshires—and everywhere the sun touches in between—adventure awaits. Beyond these solstice standouts, our network of 60+ wildlife sanctuaries each have their own unique outdoor experiences. Whatever you do, be sure not to spend this day indoors—it’s time to soak up the sun!
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