Hiking and Bird-Watching in Marshlands Conservancy

Located along Long Island Sound, this 147-acre conservancy is home to a plethora of different birds, including marsh wrens, seaside sparrows, and American woodcocks. The conservancy has 3 miles of trails, all easy to navigate.

Starting out from the visitor's center, take the trail to the right to reach the meadow. After crossing a small bridge, you will turn left, and pass by a Greek Revival mansion, the childhood home of the first Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, John Jay.

At the far end of the meadow, to the left, a side trail leads to the marshlands and osprey nest platform. After doing some birding in these areas, head back to the meadow and head left, downhill, crossing through the salt marshes onto Marie's Neck. Turn right at the fork and follow this short loop, which will give you views of Long Island Sound.

Back at the meadow, take the first right into the forest, then turn left at the second junction to return to the visitor's center.

Photos: June Marie, Victoria