Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge

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Quick Facts

Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge

New Hampshire

(603) 431-7511

Map Directions

Things To Do

   

Overview

A variety of rich wildlife habitats from uplands to open waters can be found throughout the Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge (NWR), making it a fantastic place for wildlife watching and nature walks. The refuge was established in 1992 and is located along the eastern shore of New Hampshire's Great Bay in the town of Newington. With its open coastal water and abundant prey, the refuge plays a significant role as migration and wintering habitat for the federally protected bald eagle. The bay area also provides prime migration habitat for the peregrine falcon. Many state-protected species use the refuge, including the common loon, pied-billed grebe, osprey, common tern, northern harrier and upland sandpiper. The bay area also serves as New Hampshire's major wintering area for black ducks. Great Bay NWR also manages the Karner blue butterfly easement in Concord, New Hampshire that protects important habitat for this federally endangered species. Refuge trails are open seven days a week from dawn until dusk.

Map of Great Bay NWR

Latitude, Longitude: 43.069954, -70.762339

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Activities

  • Hiking

    Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a fantastic opportunity for wildlife observation and photography with its abundance of wildlife including the common loon, pied-billed grebe, osprey, common tern, northern harrier, and upland sandpiper. The bay area also serves as New Hampshire's major wintering area for black ducks. The Refuge is also a great place to spot the federally protected bald eagle during the winter.

  • Hunting

    The Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge's abundant wildlife affords a great opportunity for hunting.

Seasonality/Weather

Refuge trails are open seven days a week from dawn until dusk.

Directions

Driving

Take exit 1 off Route 16 or Spaulding Turnpike and turn onto Pease Blvd. Heading into Pease International Tradeport. Go through one stoplight, to a stop sign and turn right on Arboretum Drive. Follow refuge signs for 3 miles to refuge parking lot, office and trails.

Phone Numbers

Primary

(603) 431-7511

Links