In the summer this hotspot is a great location to find Swamp Sparrows, Alder Flycatchers, and other marsh dwelling birds.

The trail leading to the boardwalk is paved and wheelchair accessible. The boardwalk/dock provides a beautiful view of the Fitzgerald Lake and surrounding marshes.

Fitzgerald Lake Conservation Area, 936 acres is owned by the city of Northampton and co-managed by Broad Brook Coalition and the Northampton Conservation Commission. The area features diverse habitats, including upland forests, marshes, old pastures, and a 40-acre artificial lake that was created in 1965. Visitors can enjoy hiking, skiing, bird-watching, canoeing, and fishing. There are almost 10 miles of trails, an elevated wildlife blind, and a boardwalk and dock for launching boats. The area is home to deer, beaver, otter, fox, coyote, bobcat, and many species of birds and plants.

You can access Fitzgerald Lake Conservation Area and trails from four points:

• North Farms Road: Entrance and parking lot, featuring an accessible paved path, bridge, and boardwalk.
• North end of Cooke Avenue (former Moose Lodge): Entrance and parking lot, with access to conservation area via Boggy Meadow Road
• Marian Street: Entrance and street parking
• Coles Meadow Road: Entrance and street parking

Fitzgerald Lake Conservation Area Boardwalk (Birdability) webpage