allens pond wildlife sanctuary

Worth a couple of hours any time of year to have a nice exposure to tidal pond, barrier beach, rocky shore and sandy shore alike.

This is a great place to walk, any season. Park along side the staff cottage, then walk out to the beach, and then through the trails back towards the cottage. Lots of birds and butterflies to see, depending on the season. I love walking along the beach, although they do discourage swimming because of it being a wildlife refuge. I just like the fact this whole area has been protected for the benefit of the wildlife and for us humans. I admit I haven't been on all the trails, specifically the inland ones towards the Stone Barn, because I like walking on the beach trail so much.

I have been going to Horseneck beach for years, then last year for the first time, I realized that this wildlife sanctuary was right up the street from it. Since then I have been here, a few times. Now, when I have time after going to Horseneck Beach I will hike on some of the trails at Allen's Pond. whenever I go, I always see lots of wildlife, often seeing many rare or unusual species such as a Hudsonian Godwit, a Praying Mantis and Common Eiders among others. Trails go across some scenic areas including a marsh, pastureland and beach, among others. You can also get great views of Buzzards Bay and the Elizabeth Islands. If you like wildlife and you are in the area, definitely check this place out.

Allen's Pond is one of the most beautiful places I've ever had the pleasure of hiking. I can't believe an attraction this gorgeous is absolutely free to explore, especially considering that every junky campsite I've ever been to had at least a nominal daily rate. There are two trails here - one beach trail and one wooded trail. They are equally scenic, but the beach trail is a much easier walk than the wooded trail. The beach trail has gorgeous views of the water is a generally easy stroll, though there are times when you will need to step over large rocks and boulders. The wooded trail, however, is a tad more treacherous. The wooded trail is somewhat narrow and can be a bit overgrown at points, depending on the season (in the middle of August the plants were starting to spill out on the trail, and some light bushwhacking/karate chopping was necessary at times in order to pass). There is also more legitimate "hiking" required in the wooded trail, though nothing that would leave you breathless or sore afterwards, provided you are in decent shape. There were also plenty of bugs in the wooded trail, and virtually none on the beach. For anyone with knee/joint problems, I would suggest sticking to the beach trail. With that said, you can still view Allen's Pond without entering into the wooden trail. There is a beautiful view of cattails and marsh from the end of the beach trail, just at the wooded trail's entrance. We only allotted 2 hours for the trails, but we probably could have used at least 2 more. We did the beach then hit the wooded trail but had to turn around at the Treetop View since we were running low on time. I can't wait to come back here and spend at least half a day hiking, and make sure I leave some extra time for post-hike relaxing on the beach. It would make a great date spot, too, during the daytime or as the sun is setting. Just pack yourself a picnic, and enjoy the lovely views! Alternatively, you could have a nice New England lunch or dinner at The Bayside, which is located right across the street from the trail entrance... just something to consider!A couple of final tips: Unfortunately dogs are not allowed here, leashed or otherwise, as their presence could disturb the nesting birds. Don't wear your nicest sneakers as they may get wet and muddy, but wellies/boots would be overdoing it. Sunscreen and bug spray are a must, too, and maybe even a hat (assuming you are of the special people who looks good in a hat... I am not so lucky). Don't forget to check for ticks when you get home! :)People thought your review was: Useful 2,

Allen's Pond is a wildlife area along the ocean near Horseneck Beach in Westport, MA. It's a terrific place to visit. There are all sorts of trails to follow --- along the ocean, around ponds, through fields, and a combination of all three. Butterflies fly by. There are all sorts of birds flying around, as well. One of the ponds has lovely swans. Bunnies are everywhere. There are also gardens near the visitor's center. Lots is information about the flora and fauna can be found at the parking area and inside the visitor's center. An annual duck race is held and the winner can choose lunch anywhere in the world. When walking through the grasses, it is important to wear long pants, because ticks are found here.

We thoroughly enjoyed our stroll on the trails at this sanctuary. Some trails lead to the ocean and others to Allen pond. It was a nice respite from our long bike ride. There is off-road parking and a map of the trails.

OK, I love must bird sanctuaries. But one on such beautiful terrain and overlooking the ocean…. heaven. I appreciate how the current director is developing the programming, especially the work it does with the ospreys. I hope that there will be continued (and increased) support so this can grow, I am not down in Westport on a regular schedule. But when I retire I hope to volunteer there so that I can learn more and help Allens Point thrive.

"Spanning hundreds of acres of protected beach, fields, woodlands, pond, and marsh, Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary was created by generous families who opted to conserve their land. Extensive trail systems offer ocean and pond views from many vantage points and afford visitors a full day of walking and birding.Acres611Trail Mileage7 milesSanctuary Highlights•Three trailheads to begin an adventure: one on Allens Neck Road, one at 786 E. Horseneck Road, and one at the Field Station on Horseneck Road.•More than 300 species of birds have been recorded here, including piping plovers, which nest on the 1.5 mile stretch of coastal beach.•An agricultural landscape of wide open fields crisscrossed by stone walls and maintained through partnerships with local farmers.•Rare butterflies in the butterfly garden and the sounds of chorusing toads and frogs in the vernal pools.•Seasonal programs and year-round volunteer and citizen science projects, conducted at the historic 1860s-era Stone Barn.•Managing the South Coast Osprey Project, in which we annually monitor the breeding activity of 80 pairs of osprey on nearly 100 nesting platforms in Westport and Dartmouth, MA."

Free parking and fresh air! The combination is hard to beat. Great hike whether you have under an hour or a whole afternoon!

If you love the beach and you love the woods you will love Allen Pond. There is always wildlife to be seen from many different species of birds, to turtles, chipmunks, deer etc. There is a beach loop walk with some great rocks to climb or that isn't for you, just walk on the beach and see out toward Cuttyhunk Island. Take a walk through the woods over some nice boardwalk and regular forest trails and weave your way into Dartmouth. There is a fresh water pond to stop at, walk by the marshes and see Blue Heron's, sand pipers and much more. I love going here for the entire day to take photos and get some exercise. A great place to bring the kids, too. Please note there is no picnicking and there are no bathrooms.

A spectacular location right on Buzzards Bay in Westport. Wonderful birdwatching and fishing opportunities abound. But not a lot of parking. Helpful guide at the Sanctuary shed. Views out to the Elizabeth islands.

If you like nature and the ocean...this is the place to go. So peaceful and quiet...you can walk the beach but no swimming....which is a good thing because it keeps it natural beauty. You also should wear good shoes because there are a lot of large boulders to climb over to get to certain parts of the beach. A good workout!

My fiancé and I had a fabulous day exploring around Westport. Who knew there's a whole lot more to this coastal community than the famous Horse Neck Beach? We enjoyed a beautiful late summer day hiking the trails around Allens Pond. Although it was a warm day, best to wear long pants as there's lots of scratchy bushes. Yet the natural beauty contrasting with farm land is truly amazing. And yes the abundant varieties of birds make it extra special. A great place to get way for awhile. The Beach Loop is very nice. Best views of Buzzards Bay! Or just kick back along the quiet seashore...away from the touristy Horse Neck Beach. Take the time to see it all. Photo ops abound so bring your camera and be surprised.

Beautiful spot. Surrounded by farmland and seacoast.

This Audubon sanctuary has great walking trails along the salt pond and the beach. Beautiful views of Buzzards Bay. Lots of birds to see from great blue herons to red wing blackbirds. No dogs allowed. Using their beach for swimming is discouraged but you can fish off the rocks or picnic on the beach. I like to paint plain air here, always something new to paint with the changing of the seasons.