Alderbrook Meadows Wildlife Sanctuary

Located just south of Northfield center on Route 63, Alderbrook Meadows Wildlife Sanctuary is a 5-acre Conservation Area of mature forest along a beaver impounded wetland that is home to a diverse array of birds and other wildlife. Thanks to a dedicated group of volunteers from the Northfield area and a Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreational Trails Grant, the Gunnery Sergeant Jeffrey S. Ames Accessible Nature Trail was created in 2018. This loop trail that winds through a towering grove of white pines and culminates at an observation deck overlooking a beautiful hidden pond is designed to meet the United States Forest Service's guidelines for accessibility. The trail allows people of all ages and abilities to immerse themselves in nature. Please be advised that some sections of the trail are moderately challenging, with a grade of approximately 12%.

For many years, landowners Bill and Nancy Ames have invited Scouts and the New England Wildflower Society to conduct nature walks on the land. The Ames family protected most of their 142 acres with a conservation restriction and has donated the 5 acres of woods and wetlands that contain the new trail route to Mount Grace.

“We have about 3/4 of a mile of hayfield edge -- that marvelous habitat between forest and field, protection and exposure," said Bill Ames. "There are shrubs, bushes, and wildflowers in this narrow and magical space. Mammals and birds rest and forage and have safety close at hand. This alone is worth protecting.”