Seasonal closures

The Elizabeth A. Morton National Wildlife Refuge loop offers a delightful escape into nature, winding through diverse habitats from upland forests to maritime oak woodlands. You'll find yourself on generally flat dirt paths, occasionally navigating gnarled tree roots, before reaching nearly two miles of bay beaches. From the shoreline, enjoy picturesque views of the North Fork, Shelter Island, and Robin's Island, making this an easy and scenic outing for all.

Planning your visit is straightforward for this easy 1.2-mile (2.0 km) hike, which takes about 30 minutes with only 31 feet (10 metres) of elevation gain. Remember to bring unsalted sunflower seeds if you hope to hand-feed the famous chickadees. Be mindful of seasonal closures; a section of the beach is closed from April to August to protect nesting shorebirds.

This refuge is a true gem for wildlife enthusiasts, especially birdwatchers, as it lies along the Atlantic Flyway. Beyond the friendly chickadees, you might spot piping plovers, ospreys, wild turkeys, and even white-tailed deer. It's a fantastic family-friendly option to experience abundant wildlife in a tranquil setting near Noyack.