Scenic Water Views at Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary: Our Staff’s Top 5 Picks

Looking for a picturesque walk with beautiful water views? Ipswich River is the place for you! Its diverse landscapes range from a meandering river lined with lush plant life to wildlife-filled wetlands to ponds and vernal pools. To inspire your next adventure, Ipswich River staff share their favorite spots

1. Rockery Pond along the Rockery Trail

The sanctuary’s most popular trail, the Rockery Trail, leads to the well-known Rock Grotto, a structure that was constructed in the 1900s. Start at the top of the hill and stroll along the boardwalks and bridges that cross the wetlands, allowing you to explore the entire perimeter of Rockery Pond. 

“As I cross the boardwalk on the trail and catch my first glimpse of the Rockery Pond, I am always struck by the beauty of the water and the peacefulness it brings. The surrounding wildlife never fails to amaze me, and I notice something new each time I visit the trail. The beavers, turtles, and ducks love the pond as much as I do!” - Allie, Volunteer Coordinator

2. Viewing Area Platform at the Innermost Trail

The Innermost Trail offers a quarter-mile walk through the woods leading to the viewing area platform. Here, you can take a moment to enjoy the sounds of trickling water and the low cooing of Mourning Doves, as well as colorful markings of ducks, geese, and other waterfowl.

“The viewing area along the Innermost Trail is a wonderful place to stop and take a deep breath of fresh air. It provides an excellent vantage point for photographing a variety of birds on the water’s surface and perched in the tree branches.” - Steve, Visitor Services Representative II, Birder’s Certificate Graduate 

3. Stone Bridge and Waterfowl Pond along the Stone Bridge Trail

From the Stone Bridge, which overlooks the Waterfowl Pond, you may see a large, active beaver lodge, painted turtles, water lilies, and egrets, among other wildlife.

“The iconic Stone Bridge offers stunning views of the Waterfowl Pond and surrounding cattail marsh. This bridge was built in the early 1900s during the transformation of the Bradstreet farmlands and woodlands into a private arboretum, along with carriage roads.” - Richard, Property Manager

4. Ipswich River Canoe Landing along the Ipswich River Trail

The Canoe Landing along the Ipswich River Trail serves as more than just a place to launch canoes. From here, you get front row seats to all the wildlife action that takes place on the river, from herons diving for the next meal to playful otters bobbing above and below the surface.

“The Canoe Landing is an underappreciated gem. Watching the river wind by you invites a sense of wonder and adventure. As you look to the right, Bunker Meadows has a wealth of wildlife, including bullfrogs, Great Blue Herons, and Red-winged Blackbirds. It is one of my favorite places for watching woodland and wetland birds.” - Dan, Teacher Naturalist

5. Hassocky Meadow along the Boardwalk of Averill's Island Loop Trail

For those seeking a peaceful one-mile walk to less-visited areas of the property, consider Averill's Island Loop to connect with the environment in a quieter setting. The north end leads to a boardwalk with sweeping views of the cattail marsh, known as Hassocky Meadows, a perfect habitat for beavers, otters, and mink. The tranquil setting is excellent for birdwatching and nature photography.   

“As you stand on the boardwalk, a culvert that allows water to flow from the meadow into the Ipswich River, you can find animal tracks. Look for beaver activity, including a lodge and chewed trees, in summer dragonflies darting about searching for their next meal, and in winter Black-capped Chickadees pecking the cattail seedheads for caterpillar larvae.” - Scott, Education Program Manager

Plan Your Visit

Explore these water views and more along the 12 miles of interconnected trails that wind through forests, meadows, and wetlands. Find everything you need to know, including hours and directions, and download our latest trail map.

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