Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary Loop

From the Visitor Center, head north through the open field on the Rockery Trail as it ducks into the woods. Continue straight (north) across the Drumlin Trail and then again across the Waterfowl Pond Trail to find the Rockery Pond Loop. Head in either direction around the pond with the Rock Grotto on the west side. For visitors short on time or looking to accommodate a group of varying ages and/or abilities, this out-and-back can be a lovely hike all by itself. Continuing along this recommended hike, head back to the Waterfowl Pond Trail, this time heading left (east) through the marshland toward the Waterfowl Pond and bridge. Turn left onto Mile Brook Trail at the bridge and head north through the woods separating Hassocky Meadow to the east and Mill Pond to the west. Look to the right (east) for the White Pine Loop, which you can take immediately or continue to the north a few hundred yards more toward Fox Field and then head back to the right (southeast) along the eastern half of the loop. Continue onto Averill's Island Loop as it heads toward the namesake Ipswich River before returning to the Waterfowl Pond. To explore new trails on the final stretch back to the parking area, head left (south) onto the Stone Bridge Trail to link up with Bradstreet Lane. Or to lengthen your hike, continue south to visit the Wisteria Arbor, Observation Tower, and Vernal Pool.

The Rock Grotto was constructed in 1905.