Get in touch with nature this summer at the Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary in Topsfield, Mass Audubon's largest preserve.
With more than 10 miles of interconnecting trails winding through forests, meadows and wetlands, there is plenty to explore. Members can rent canoes from May through October and float down the eight-mile stretch of the Ipswich River that runs through the sanctuary and camp on Perkins Island. Cabins, located close to the sanctuary's office and program facilities, are available to rent. Each cabin sleeps four.
Keep your eyes open for river otters, painted turtles, American toads and great blue herons while climbing the drumlin and esker, landscape features created by a glacier 15,000 years ago. Exotic trees and shrubs that were once a part of a former arboretum provide a beautiful backdrop on a walk along the Rockery Trail. Trails are open from dawn until dusk, Tuesday through Sunday and Monday holidays.
For the little ones, the sanctuary provides day camp programs for ages 4-14 that are designed to engage children with their natural surroundings.
For more information call 978-887-9264.
IF YOU GO
Admission: $4 for nonmember adults and $3 for nonmember children ages 2-12 and seniors.
Bring bug spray and sun block.
Stay on trails to avoid ticks and poison ivy.
No pets allowed.
No motorized vehicles or bicycles.
No hunting, fishing, or trapping.
