Facility Activities

Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge encompasses 2,357 acres within the Sudbury-Assabet-Concord watershed. The refuge abuts the Sudbury River and Sudbury State Forest and is near Sudbury-Marlborough State Forest and Sudbury Valley Trustees Memorial Forest. The immense amount of protected land in this area gives way for diverse habitats, species and recreational uses. Assabet River has all six wildlife-dependent recreational uses of the Refuge System; wildlife observation, photography, hunting, interpretation, fishing and environmental education. In addition to these six recreational uses, this refuge has additional activities available for the public. 

Hunting

Hunting is an important wildlife management tool that we recognize as a healthy, traditional outdoor pastime, deeply rooted in America’s heritage. Hunting can instill a unique understanding and appreciate of wildlife, their behavior, and their habitat needs. 

Various species can be...

Fishing

Fishing is only allowed from the two fishing piers on Puffer Pond: the handicap-accessible fishing pier on the Sandbank Trail and at the Barron Fishing Access Site on the Puffer Pond trail. Fishing from the banks of Puffer Pond is not permitted. All refuges, hatcheries and other Fish and...

Wildlife watching

At the refuge visitors are able to observe wildlife year-round in many different habitats. Some great spots are the wetlands located along the Winterberry Way, Taylor Way, and Otter Alley trail. Our handicap-accessible fishing/observational pier on puffer pond is...

Hiking

The 20 trails are open year-round, sunrise to sunset. Visitors are required to stay on designated paths and trails. No picking or disturbing wildlife or vegetation. Other than certified service animals, dogs are not allowed on the refuge. While visiting, please keep in mind...

Snowshoeing

When snow is available, snow shoeing is permitted on all trails. Activity is not allowed on part of Puffer Pond or to cross Puffer Pond. Snow shoers, please have winter etiquette while on trails and do not step on ski tracks; walkalong aside when available. Be on the lookout for...

Biking

Biking is only allowed on roads and ways. Including, Patrol Road, Taylor Way, White Pond Road, Winterberry Way and Harry’s Way. Look out for the sold line marked on trails and ways indicating you can bike! 

Cross-country skiing

When snow is available, cross-country skiing is permitted on all trails. Activity is not allowed on part of Puffer Pond or to cross Puffer Pond. Be on the lookout for tracks in the winter months! 

Photography

Each season brings a unique change to the landscape and what wildlife you’re able to see. Great blue herons are a common sighting at the pond throughout most of the year. A great spot for seeing them is from Otter Alley, Taylor Way, or Winterberry Way. A fun bird to catch zipping around the...

Birding

The three refuges, Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge, and Oxbow National Wildlife Refuge, are composed of approximately 7,000 acres of diverse habitat, including open water, marshes, and uplands. The wetland portions receive heavy use by waterfowl...