But we didn't. I mean, it's a nice nature preserve in an area that needs preservation, but it just wasn't much more than a good walk on a nice day.

Parking lot at the Beach Loop was full at 1:30PM or so on Saturday so we headed north to the Stone Barn parking area, which was nearly empty. Nice sign saying "TRAIL" but nothing else. No maps, no information board or anything else, so we headed off down the trail.

Saw a few markers with "TRAIL -->" type lettering which was helpful, and a few signs that said "Private Property", some of which were on our way back from TRAIL, so either the TRAIL or Private Property signs are poorly located as we were directed to Private Property locations.

There are a few walking options, including one that takes you to the Beach area, but without maps or much info it's hard to figure that out.

Parts of the trail are mowed grass (CHECK FOR TICKS!!!) and other parts are narrow trails through the forest. There are some damp areas with 2x6s lain across.

Really surprised to see zero wildlife. Wasn't expecting deer, but not even a squirrel? A few very nice vistas of the marshes with sea birds in the distance, but close up only Red Winged Blackbirds and a Goldfinch (I think; it was fast and yellow) Was nice to be so close to civilization but we only saw one other couple in the 90 minutes or so we walked those trails. They saw lots of poison ivy, but we didn't see any (and I'm not itchy yet so . . . ). Great bathroom in the Stone Barn itself.

We then drove back to the Beach loop area and found a space and walked that trail to the beach and around and back. There was a sign there with a map so you had a general idea of the trail, but once you get to the beach the trail markers are noon-existent so no idea how much further you need to walk before you turn back up in the loop. Lots more folks here.

Pluses: Price (free, donations requested per the website, but I didn't see any place to leave money), Desolation, Well maintained trails, bathroom at Stone Farm
Minuses: No maps, limited signage, not enough parking at Beach Loop

Allens Pond until recently was threatened by a proposed massive housing development.
In an extraordinary effort, local individuals joined with town, state and federal government
to acquire abutting properties and preserve Allens Pond for future generations. Home to migrating birds and a nursery for sea life, the public will be able to hike to visit one of the jewels of New England.

We visited Allens Pond in early October for a Monarch tagging event. This was our first visit to the sanctuary and we loved it - not only is the setting absolutely gorgeous but the site is beautifully maintained. With its wide range of environments, Allens Pond is a real treat for wildlife lovers.

The Monarch tagging event was amazing. Huge thanks to Lauren, the property manager, who ran the event. Not only is she a superb teacher, but she is incredibly knowedgeable and also relaxed and fun to be with. The event attracted about 20 people (of all ages) and after a fascinating intro by Lauren we all went out into the field to catch and tag Monarchs. The experience was unforgettable. We will be eagerly following the progress of our tagged Monarchs as they make their epic journey to Mexico.

We look forward to visiting Allens Pond again, hopefully in the right season to see the breeding ospreys (which the site is famous for).