New Accessible Trail at Long Pasture

Mass Audubon’s nationally recognized, award-winning All Persons Trails are expanding across the state, with the most recent trail opening on Cape Cod’s Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary in Barnstable.  

About the Trail

The new trail at Long Pasture, made of firm stone dust and covering just over a third of a mile long, gracefully curves across the lawn with sweeping views of Barnstable Harbor and then meanders through five different habitats. It features a bridge and platform extending into Night Heron Pond, which better accommodates accessible birding at the pond. In addition, countless bullfrog tadpoles, painted turtles, and occasionally a pair of river otters can now be seen with ease. 

The trail was designed by Mass Audubon staff with input from the Barnstable Disability Commission, with the goal of expanding access to the outdoors for all. The Appalachian Mountain Club was hired to construct the trail and worked in close collaboration with our team for over two months in the spring and early summer. Their time with Mass Audubon even continued after work hours: during the months of May and June, they camped overnight at Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary.

The completion of the trail was also made possible by a dedicated crew of Long Pasture volunteers who regularly assist Property Manager Chris Walz. In just four days, they installed 148 posts for a guide system that runs along the trail that uses rope and beads to indicate the locations of interpretive stops and seating.  

Accessibility is Our Mission 

With this addition at Long Pasture, Mass Audubon has now completed 18 All Persons Trails across the state, nearing our goal of 25 accessible trails on Mass Audubon properties by 2026.  

“We believe the benefits of time spent in nature should be enjoyed by everyone; that is why we create trails that can be comfortably and safely navigated by all visitors for a rewarding outdoor experience,” said Lucy Gertz, Mass Audubon’s Director of Adult Education & Accessible Programs.

Coming Soon on the Cape

This fall, more accessible interpretive elements will be added to the trail at Long Pasture. Future upgrades and improvements are also planned at Wellfleet Bay’s Robert R. Read’s All Person’s Pathway.  

“Over 40,000 visitors check in to our Mass Audubon wildlife sanctuaries on the Cape each year,” said Regional Director Melissa Lowe. “With accessible trails at both Wellfleet Bay and Long Pasture now, all people of all abilities can get out and experience the true nature of Cape Cod.”  

Thank you to all the supporters who make these trails possible and help us reach our goals.

We invite you to join us on the trails and experience the serenity of the wildlife sanctuary soon. You never know what you may find!