Each summer we would pass the Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary and say we would check it out next time and finally we did; with some regret of wishing we checked it out sooner! Whenever we hear “universally accessible” we know it’s going to be a good pick.
This Mass Audubon nature center sits on the shoreline of Wellfleet Bay with numerous different trails to explore. The one that stuck out to us of course was the “All Persons Pathway”. First off we love the wording of that! Once you stroll through the wildlife center you will find the start of the trails; make sure to go left at the fork dividing two different trails following Goose Pond Trail. We took a bit of a detour and veered right by accident- we will tell you about that after! (The image on the left below is the path leading to the fork- go left!)
As you follow the accessible trail make sure to stop to the left and check out the great view of the pond on this great boardwalk!
The terrain of the trails is compact- easy to stroll on and firm for steady walking. I was pushing the stroller while limping on an injured knee and we did fine! Also the trail markers have braille as well 🙂
As you make your way along you will come to another boardwalk with beautiful views of the marsh with a nice wide viewing pull off. Unfortunately at this point we weren’t able to beat the heat any longer. We suggest going on a breezy day if you are heat sensitive! We are eager to return to update you on the rest of the trail but we have a good feeling about it!
Another reason we cut short was because we had already trekked along another trail by accident. At the start of the trails we verged right instead of left- oops! We followed Bayview trail and it was worth the sweat for us!
Here’s what you should know- the trail started off pretty even and wide enough on compact ground but as you continued the trail became pine needles and more narrow.
At a few points we had to push hard and fast through some sand- it was manageable for us but the views before that point are good enough to turn back at the sandy point. There were maybe two tree stumps that we had to push over. So no it wasn’t accessible but it was do able for us in a convaid stroller!
The staff were super friendly showing us maps and letting us know what trails might best suit us. Too bad I clearly don’t read a map well- haha! The visitor center has some cool fish tanks with sea life, a very accessible and open concept, and some great bird viewing windows!
We will be back at some point for sure- this time to follow the all persons path and on a cooler day!
Address: 291 State Highway, Route 6, South Wellfleet, MA 02663
CapeAble + Accessible 