Alderbrook Meadows is open to the public for hiking and nature watching, and has an accessible trail (Gunnery Sergeant Jeffrey S. Ames Accessible Nature Trail). 

Located just south of Northfield Center on MA-63, Alderbrook Meadows Wildlife Sanctuary is a 5-acre Conservation Area of mature forest along a beaver-impounded wetland that is home to a diverse array of birds and other wildlife. Thanks to a dedicated group of volunteers from the Northfield area and a Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreational Trails Grant, the Gunnery Sergeant Jeffrey S. Ames Accessible Nature Trail was created in 2018. This loop trail that winds through a towering grove of white pines and culminates at an observation deck overlooking a beautiful hidden pond is designed to meet the United States Forest Service's guidelines for accessibility. The trail allows people of all ages and abilities to immerse themselves in nature. Please be advised that some sections of the trail are moderately challenging, with a grade of approximately 12%.

Working with the Northfield Historical Commission, community members, and representatives of the Narragansett, Wampanoag, and Nipmuc Nations, cultural and natural history interpretive signs were created and installed along the trail.

With help from volunteers and a state grant, the Gunnery Sergeant Jeffrey S. Ames Accessible Nature Trail was constructed in 2018. This is a 0.5 mile handicapped accessible nature trail that winds through a pine forest to an observation platform overlooking a beaver pond. This trail has a fine-stone surface and is designed to meet the Forest Service’s requirements for accessibility, though some grades are towards the upper end allowed.

Alderbrook Meadows Wildlife Sanctuary (Birdability) webpage