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Marblehead Neck Wildlife Sanctuary
4.5 ★★★★★ 170 Google reviews · Running trail in Marblehead, Massachusetts · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from Marblehead Neck Wildlife Sanctuary's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Wooded nature reserve for migrating birds and other animals, with walking trails.
What runners say about Marblehead Neck Wildlife Sanctuary
“This area is really cool because birds use this location as a migration stop so you will get to see some beautiful birds and even bunnies!”
“Thus place is a little difficult to find, but the trails are well kept, and the wetland ponds are quite peaceful and secluded.”
Incredible veiws...Beautiful Homes.. Several surfers out their catching so 2-3 foot wakes.. Photo opportunities for days..I was their on a rainy overcast day and it was still worth the drive.. I would gladly bring a date to walk the beach.. Awe inspiring to say the least!
A secluded walk (December 2023) in the woods of town #191 towards visiting all 351 cities and towns in the state. Parked in the nice lot (space for 6-7 cars) at the end of Risley Road, and walked along all of the trails. No trail markers but small enough place you can easily follow the map.
Superb, excellent birding spot. Tranquil, teaming with birds. Easy to follow trails not accessible the paths are filled with exposed tree roots and stones. This is a must return again and again.
Thus place is a little difficult to find, but the trails are well kept, and the wetland ponds are quite peaceful and secluded. Wish there were more benches for sitting and sketching.
Trail conditions & character
“This area is really cool because birds use this location as a migration stop so you will get to see some beautiful birds and even bunnies!”
“Thus place is a little difficult to find, but the trails are well kept, and the wetland ponds are quite peaceful and secluded.”
“The parking lot is not big but enough for the visitors as the turnover is high.”
“Easy to follow trails not accessible the paths are filled with exposed tree roots and stones.”
Plan your run at Marblehead Neck Wildlife Sanctuary
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- Websitemassaudubon.org
- Phone+1 978-887-9264
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 8 am–6 pm |
| Tuesday | 8 am–6 pm |
| Wednesday | 8 am–6 pm |
| Thursday | 8 am–6 pm |
| Friday | 8 am–6 pm |
| Saturday | 8 am–6 pm |
| Sunday | 8 am–6 pm |
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