Are you ready to embark on a nature-filled adventure in Connecticut? Look no further than the Salt Meadow Audubon Sanctuary. Nestled in the charming town of Guilford, just a short drive from New Haven, this 200-acre oasis beckons adventurers of all ages to immerse themselves in its stunning landscapes. With access to the Long Island Sound and home to a vibrant array of flora and fauna, Salt Meadow Sanctuary is a unique salt marsh on the East River. Wander along winding trails, soak up the beautiful scenery, and delight in the abundant wildlife encounters that await.
Whether you’re craving a brief respite or a full day of exploration, Salt Meadow Sanctuary is the ultimate destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Wetlands Walking Trails
The walking trails that wind through the sanctuary are a great way to see the marshlands, wildlife and the East River that flow into Long Island Sound. The most popular trail is the Anne Conover Nature Education Trail, a one-mile loop that takes visitors through the wetlands. As you explore the region, you’ll see native flora and fauna such as cordgrass, bulrush and glasswort – a succulent plant that thrives in the salt marshes and is a food source for local wildlife.
For more insights into the history of the sanctuary, schedule a guided nature walk with a volunteer. These walks happen yearly, so check with the Audubon Society for scheduling.
Sanctuary Wildlife Encounters
Visitors of all ages will love spotting the wildlife that calls the sanctuary home. You’ll find multiple bird species in the marshlands, from ospreys and herons to shorebirds like sandpipers, plovers and willets. In fact, 111 acres of the sanctuary are considered a critical habitat for rare species like Saltmarsh Sparrow. The Saltmarsh Sparrow can only be found in a tiny area of salt marshes stretching from Maine to North Carolina, so birdwatchers flock to the sanctuary to glimpse this rare, feathered friend. Use the sanctuary’s boardwalks and observation platforms for the best birdwatching opportunities.
Beyond the birds, the sanctuary is also home to white-tailed deer and muskrats, and you might even catch a pod of dolphins swimming the East River from the Sound.
Aquatic Excursions
If you’re seeking adventures on the water, you can kayak and paddleboard from Long Island Sound into the sanctuary from the East River. Bring your equipment or rent it from nearby outfitters. The sanctuary’s boat ramp makes it easy to launch into the water, allowing you to explore the nearby islands or coves. As you glide through the water under Connecticut’s pale blue skies, you be treated to an endless expanse of emerald green salt grasses. Watch for Snowy Egrets fishing in the shallow waters. However, be aware there are private lots throughout the sanctuary and along the water, so be respectful when exploring the area.
Nearby Outdoor Adventures
After you’ve explored the sanctuary, you should check out the many outdoor activities in the surrounding areas. Guilford’s Westwoods Trails is an extensive trail system that covers over 1,200 acres of diverse landscapes, including forests, wetlands, and rocky ridges. The area is perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting. Connected to the Salt Meadow Sanctuary, you’ll find the East River Marsh, a tidal marsh with ample opportunities for kayaking and canoeing. Just a short drive from Guilford in Killingworth, Chatfield Hollow State Park offers hiking trails, a beautiful pond for swimming, and picnic areas. The park also features the historic Schreeder Pond dam and ancient Indigenous American caves.
