Trustom Pond National Wildlife Refuge Winter Waterfowl & Maritime Nature Trail

About this adventure

Spanning nearly 800 acres of coastal forest, open fields, and freshwater wetlands, Trustom Pond National Wildlife Refuge protects Rhode Island's only undeveloped coastal salt pond. In the quiet winter season, Trustom Pond becomes a bustling refuge for thousands of wintering waterfowl, including buffleheads, hooded mergansers, black ducks, and Canada geese. Families can traverse nearly three miles of gentle, flat walking trails including the Osprey Point Trail and Farm Pond Trail. Elevated wooden observation platforms equipped with educational identification guides overlook the tranquil pond, allowing children to observe feeding ducks, mute swans, and soaring raptors with ease. Family Experience & Accessibility: • Stroller Accessibility: Main trails are wide, flat, and surfaced with crushed stone and hard-packed grass, easily navigated by strollers and family wagons. • Nursing & Rest Spots: Benches situated at observation platforms overlooking Trustom Pond; accessible restrooms located at the refuge contact station. • Age Suitability: Tailored for all ages, offering short trail loops with minimal elevation changes suitable for toddlers and young children. • Sensory Tips: Deep natural tranquility with quacking waterfowl, wind rustling through coastal bayberry shrubs, and no motorized watercraft or traffic noise.