Description of Public Trails
The Public Area of Norcross Wildlife Sanctuary
At the heart of the Norcross Wildlife Sanctuary is a 75-acre parcel open to the public. Ranging from high and dry sites to swamps and rich woodlands, the public area is welcoming, beautiful, and above all valuable wildlife habitat chock full of both common and rare native species. Access to the public is available on our 2+ miles of trails to explore, view wildlife and the variety of wildflowers in this area of Norcross Wildlife Sanctuary, or just take a lovely stroll in nature.
With various possible routes, our trail system allows for everything from a short 10-minute loop to a multi-hour exploration. Along our trail system you will see a number of different habitat types such as a dry grassland, a wet meadow, and numerous forests types ranging from rich and mesic to well-drained and acidic.
Our trails are irregular natural surfaces such as dirt, grass and woodchips, with roots and other natural obstacles on them. Please plan your visit to our trails accordingly.
Trail Map
Hours
Our trails are open to the public Monday through Saturday, 8:30 am – 4:00 pm, from mid-May to mid-November. Trails are closed on Holiday Weekends Saturday – Monday, reopening on Tuesday.
Directions
For driving directions, visit Google Maps
When using a GPS, find the Norcross Wildlife Sanctuary with the following address: 30 Peck Road, Wales, MA 01081
FROM SPRINGFIELD OR WESTERN, MA
- Take I-90 East – Exit 63, Palmer, MA
- Rt 32 South to Monson
- Go through the center of Monson and then take the left turn onto Wales Road
- Stay right at the fork on Wales Road
- Continue for approximately 3.5 miles
- Take a right onto Peck Road
- The entrance is a short distance on the left
FROM WORCESTER, BOSTON, OR EASTERN MA
- Take I-90 West – Exit 78 toward I-84
- Take Exit 6B Sturbridge, MA-Rt 20 West
- Continue on MA-Rt 20 West to Brimfield, take left on Rt 19 South
- Continue South to Wales, MA and take a right on Monson Road
- Stay to the left of the fork on Monson Road
- Go approximately 2 miles and take a left onto Peck Road
- The entrance is a short distance on the left
FROM 1-84
- Exit 70, Stafford Springs, CT
- North on Rt 32 through Stafford Springs, CT to Monson, MA
- Make the right turn onto Wales Road
- Stay right at the fork on Wales Road
- Continue for approximately 3.5 miles
- Take a right onto Peck Road
- The entrance is a short distance on the left
Trail Rules
Be Respectful
- Stay on the Trail – Trail maps are located at the trailhead kiosk and are clearly marked with signage. Gravel roads are for service and emergency vehicles only; bicycles, motorcycles and ATVs are not allowed. Going off the trail can damage the ecosystems that surround the trails by hurting plant and animal species.
- Leave No Trace – Leave rocks, vegetation, and artifacts where you find them so that others may enjoy them as well. Take out what you bring in, including trash. A portable restroom is located in the parking lot.
- Do Not Disturb Wildlife – Should you encounter any wildlife, keep your distance. Do not leave the trail to get a closer look as it may damage the habitat and put you in danger. Never approach an animal, especially one that does not see you. Pets are not allowed.
Observe
- Take time to listen – Keep electronic devices off and let nature do the talking. Many species of wildlife rely on natural sounds for communication and disturbing this can lessen their chances at survival.
- Children should always be accompanied by adults and strollers are not recommended.
Enjoy
- Make yourself known to other hikers with a friendly hello.
- Breathe in the fresh air. We are a smoke-free campus; no smoking, e-cigarettes, or vaping.