Painted Turtle
ParkMassachusetts, US
Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary
Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary offers a tranquil escape into diverse New England ecosystems.
About
Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary offers a tranquil escape into diverse New England ecosystems. Spanning over 624 acres in Natick, Massachusetts, this Mass Audubon property provides a rich tapestry of habitats, from lush forests and open meadows to vibrant wetlands, ponds, and the flowing waters of Indian Brook and the Charles River. It's a sanctuary renowned for its abundant birdlife, with over 175 species identified, alongside a variety of mammals, amphibians, and unique flora, making it a prime destination for nature enthusiasts and a vital center for conservation.
Visitors can explore nine miles of trails that weave through these scenic landscapes, including the universally accessible All Persons Trail, a highlight for its boardwalks over Indian Brook marsh. Keep an eye out for captivating wildlife such as graceful Great Blue Herons, colorful Wood Ducks, elusive Beavers, and playful River Otters. In warmer months, the sanctuary bursts with seasonal blooms like the delicate Lady's-slipper Orchids, while the skies are often graced by soaring Red-tailed Hawks and the vibrant flutters of butterflies and dragonflies.
Broadmoor is more than just a place to observe nature; it’s an immersive experience that connects people to the natural world through educational programs, family-friendly activities at the Nature Play Area, and the charming Saltonstall Nature Center, a converted 1911 horse barn. Whether you're seeking a peaceful stroll, an adventurous hike, or an opportunity for birdwatching and nature photography, Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary offers a memorable journey into the heart of Massachusetts' natural beauty. Unlock an interactive field guide for this spot: get the Snappit app to identify nature on the go.
The Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary was established by the Massachusetts Audubon Society through significant land donations, primarily in 1962 and 1968. The initial donation in 1962 by Henry S. Channing included the 250-acre Little Farm Pond property. The sanctuary's wetlands and Indian Brook area also hold a rich history, dating back to the 1690s when Thomas Sawin built a gristmill and dam on Indian Brook, creating Broadmoor Mill Pond. The land itself is situated within the ancestral territory of the Massachusett Indigenous nation. Throughout the centuries, the flowing waters of Broadmoor attracted various human activities, from Native American use to colonial settlers and 20th-century farmers. Evidence of this past, such as historic mill foundations, can still be found along the trails. The Saltonstall Nature Center, which serves as the sanctuary's welcome center, is a renovated 1911 horse barn, embodying the site's blend of natural and historical heritage.
What to do here
Engage in birdwatching, hike the diverse trails through woodlands, marshes, and fields, observe mammals like red foxes and white-tailed deer, and photograph the vibrant plant life. Participate in educational programs or simply enjoy a peaceful stroll.
Seasonal info
Spring: Witness the emergence of hibernators and the return of migrant birds. Forests are home to Lady's-slipper orchids and spring ephemerals. Mosquitoes and other insects provide food for birds, making it a prime birding season.
Summer: Fields are filled with butterflies and dragonflies. Cardinal flowers bloom along the Charles River.
Fall: Enjoy vibrant autumn colors, particularly the burgundy hues of tupelo trees.
Winter: Consider snowshoeing on trails. Look for mixed flocks of ducks and geese on the water, and possibly Great Horned Owls in mature trees. Track animal signs in the snow.
Accessibility
Broadmoor offers a universally accessible Nature Center, restrooms, and the All Persons Trail. This 0.6-mile trail features wide paths and boardwalks suitable for wheelchairs, walkers, and strollers. An audio tour is available, and benches are placed along the path for rest. The sanctuary also provides mobility supports like all-terrain wheelchairs (Freedom Chairs) and walkers.
Don't miss
1
All Persons Trail
A 0.6-mile universally accessible loop with wide paths and boardwalks, perfect for all mobility levels, featuring an audio tour.
2
Indian Brook Boardwalk
A favorite spot for wildlife viewing, offering glimpses of beavers, otters, and various waterfowl.
3
Saltonstall Nature Center
The visitor center, housed in a renovated historic barn, offers information, restrooms, and a small shop.
4
Nature Play Area
An engaging outdoor space for children to explore and interact with natural objects.
Wildlife you might spot
12Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.
Snap map for this place
Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.
Loading map…
Good to know before you go
Stay on marked trails
This protects the delicate ecosystem, prevents disturbance to wildlife, and helps you avoid poison ivy and ticks.
Bring binoculars and a camera
Broadmoor is a fantastic spot for birdwatching and nature photography, so come prepared to capture its beauty and diverse wildlife.
Dress in layers and wear appropriate footwear: Trails can be varied, from paved boardwalks to rugged, root-filled paths, and weather conditions can change quickly.
Carry water
Stay hydrated, especially during longer hikes. A water bottle filling station is available at the Nature Center.
Visit the Saltonstall Nature Center first: Pick up a trail map, ask staff about recent wildlife sightings, and learn about current programs.
Consider an audio tour
The All Persons Trail offers a multi-sensory audio tour that enhances the experience by providing detailed descriptions of the surroundings.
Frequently asked questions
- Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a wide array of wildlife, including over 175 species of birds such as Wood Ducks, Great Blue Herons, and Red-tailed Hawks. You might also spot mammals like beavers, otters, red foxes, and white-tailed deer, along with various amphibians, reptiles, butterflies, and dragonflies.
- Yes, Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary is committed to accessibility. It features a universally accessible Nature Center, restrooms, and a 0.6-mile All Persons Trail with wide paths and boardwalks suitable for wheelchairs, walkers, and strollers. An audio tour is available for the All Persons Trail, and benches are provided for rest. All-terrain wheelchairs are also available for use.
- No, dogs and other pets are generally not allowed at Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary to protect the wildlife. Service animals are welcome.
Recent snaps at this place
Jun 5, 2026
i
Photo attribution
(c) Wyatt Sibilia, some rights reserved (CC BY)
License: CC BY 4.0 ↗
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
May 25, 2026
i
Photo attribution
(c) Lythronax246, some rights reserved (CC BY)
License: CC BY 4.0 ↗
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
May 25, 2026
i
Photo attribution
(c) Lythronax246, some rights reserved (CC BY)
License: CC BY 4.0 ↗
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
May 25, 2026
i
Photo attribution
(c) Lythronax246, some rights reserved (CC BY)
License: CC BY 4.0 ↗
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
May 25, 2026
i
Photo attribution
(c) Lythronax246, some rights reserved (CC BY)
License: CC BY 4.0 ↗
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
More park guides
View all ›.JPG)
Park30 sightings21 species
Massachusetts, US
Stevens-Coolidge House and Gardens
You might spot Virginia Bluebells and Great Golden Digger Wasp.
View guide →
.jpg)
Park30 sightings20 species
Maryland, US
Herring Run Park
You might spot White-Tailed Deer and Japanese Knotweed.
View guide →
Park22 sightings20 species
Illinois, US
Sauganash Trail
You might spot White Mulberry, House Finch, and Scissor Grinder.
View guide →
Park166 sightings19 species
Maryland, US
Rock Creek Regional Park
You might spot Great Blue Heron, Eastern Bluebird, and White-Tailed Deer.
View guide →