This 34-acre property was donated in 1979 by Hope Norton Iaccaci. The sanctuary includes Ash Cottage, which is managed as part of the Newfound Audubon Center. It is comprised of a mosaic of open field, marsh, and forested habitats and includes frontage on Newfound Lake, one of the state’s largest. Nest boxes attract Eastern Bluebirds and Tree Swallows, and the fields are managed for grassland birds and other wildlife through a delayed mowing. Trails loop the grasslands and provide scenic views of Newfound Lake, where a diversity of bird and other wildlife species can be observed. Here, at the largest and most important wetland to wildlife on Newfound Lake, dabbling ducks congregate in Hebron Marsh from spring through fall, and Bald Eagles, Osprey, and Common Loons feed.
The property is also home to historic Ash Cottage. In 2022, NH Audubon received a grant from LCHIP to support the restoration of the cottage based on a 2021 historic assessment.
Note that parking is limited to a small lot on the south side of North Shore Rd.
The Newfound Audubon Center trail system consists of hiking trails on three sanctuaries, totaling several miles. This parking lot provides access to trails at Hebron Marsh located behind this kiosk and across North Shore Road. Bear Mountain Sanctuary parking is just west on Cross Road. Refer to the map and trail guide for access to each trailhead and access point.
Cockermouth River Field Loop (Beaver Trail)
Mowed trail 1 mile loop trail; approximately 30 minutes
Carefully cross the street to access this trail.
This trail follows the perimeter of a large grassland field that is managed for birds through a delayed mowing at the end of each growing season. The nest boxes you see attract Eastern Bluebird and Tree Swallow, while the fields may have displaying American Woodcock and nesting Bobolink. A vegetated buffer near the Cockermouth River is an important feature for the Wood Turtle, other reptiles, and a diversity of invertebrates and plants.
Ash Cottage Field Loop
Mowed trail, 0.4 mile trail; approximately 15 minutes
This trail begins behind the kiosk and loops around the field just west of Ash Cottage. The field is mowed annually to promote grasses and wildflowers important to native pollinators, and the nest boxes are used by birds. A look at Hebron Marsh from the bench may yield views of Common Loon, Wilson’s Snipe, and Pied-billed Grebe in nesting season, and ducks in migration. Many woodland and field edge birds can be heard and seen.
Beaver Trail
Unblazed, 0.5 mile each way; approximately 30 minutes hour
This trail is maintained by the Resort for hiking and cross-country skiing. It leads to a peninsula dominated by Red and White Pines with nice views of the Cove. Please note where Private Property begins.
OTHER NEARBY TRAILS AND ACCESS POINTS
Bear Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary
Please park in designated parking on Cross Road to access the trail.
Paradise Point Wildlife Sanctuary
Accessed from North Shore Road. Trails, boat rentals, nature center.
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WINTER
