In an area that is naturally beautiful, the Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary stands out as a special place where beauty and nature are both celebrated and protected.
Part of the Massachusetts Audubon’s system of statewide sanctuaries, the science-based environmental organization provides five extensive trails, a wildlife garden, and public programs.
Stop by the impressive Esther Underwood Johnson Nature Center to view exhibits and get oriented. Then head out to explore the beautiful grounds. The Sanctuary boasts five different trails, each featuring distinctive habitats with unspoiled scenery.
Of these, Goose Pond Trail, the main trail of the system, provides an all-access path for the first quarter mile of the trail, and informational signage that includes braille. The other trails offer treks through shaded woodlands, over a salt marsh, and along a fresh water pond. Each brings opportunity to see wildlife in its natural habitat.
The Wildlife Sanctuary also hosts a variety of year-round programs for adults on research and conservation projects—such as ones threatened shorebirds or coastal ecology—and offers hands-on activities during wildlife cruises.
Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary
291 State Highway, Route 6, South Wellfleet, MA
508-349-2615
Memorial Day – Columbus Day: open daily, 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Columbus Day – Memorial Day: open Tuesday – Sunday, 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Nonmembers: $8/adults, $5/seniors 65+, $3/children 2-12; free for members
After the peaceful surroundings of Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, you’ll feel right at home in the soothing surroundings here at Whalewalk Inn. Call us soon to book your next stay!
PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE WELLFLEET BAY WILDLIFE SANCTUARY.