Wapack National Wildlife Refuge

Wapack National Wildlife Refuge is a conservation area in New Hampshire covering roughly 1,700 acres and containing North Pack Monadnock Mountain. The property includes four hiking trails, with one section of the Wapack Trail extending four miles from the parking area on Old Mountain Road.

The refuge was established in 1972 when Laurence and Lorna Marshall donated their land to create New Hampshire's first national wildlife refuge. This gift was a major step toward protecting the region's wild spaces.

The refuge hosts nesting songbirds during breeding season, making it a popular destination for bird watching throughout the year. People come to observe and listen to these migratory species as they move through the region.

Visitors should choose trails based on their fitness level and available time, as the routes vary in difficulty. It is a good idea to bring sturdy shoes and plenty of water, especially on warmer days.

The refuge functions as a key migration corridor for hawks and other raptors moving through the region. During migration seasons, visitors may spot numerous birds of prey soaring over the mountain ridges.

Location: New Hampshire

Inception: 1972

Website: https://fws.gov/refuge/wapack

GPS coordinates: 42.88340,-71.86620

Latest update: December 14, 2025 13:07