Posted in Massachusetts National & State Parks, Nature February 02, 2023 by Melissa Mahoney

This Island In Massachusetts Is One Of America’s Most Incredible Wildlife Refuges

Massachusetts is filled with some of the most beautiful and otherworldly places in the country. Between the coast and the mountains, there are countless places to explore the state’s natural beauty. One place you may not have explored quite yet is the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge in Massachusetts. And it may be one of the most incredible wildlife refuges in America.

Parker River National Wildlife Refuge is found in the Essex County town of Newbury. Its coastal location makes it a fascinating area to explore.

This refuge is 4,700 acres of diverse landscapes that include beaches, dunes, shrubs, forests, salt marsh, and cranberry bogs.

Most of Plum Island is part of Parker River national Wildlife Refuge which is one reason why it's so unique.

It's also home to numerous shore and migratory bird species, including the piping plover, ideal for you birdwatchers out there. In all, approximately 300 species of birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, insects, and plants live here.

There are more than a dozen trails to explore throughout the refuge, and many of them are quite short and easy enough for anyone to hike.

Pictured here is the 0.61-mile Hellcat Trail, a boardwalk trail that anyone can use.

Parker River National Wildlife Refuge is open daily from sunrise to sunset. And judging by this photo, wouldn't it be wonderful to see the sunrise or sunset here?

Have you explored Parker River National Wildlife Refuge in Massachusetts yet? If not, what are you waiting for? To learn more about this beautiful wildlife refuge, visit the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service website.

If you love hiking, take one of these low-key hikes in Massachusetts. There’s a surprising payoff at the end of each one!

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Address: Refuge Road, Refuge Rd, Newburyport, MA 01951, USA