Belle Isle Marsh Reservation protects Boston's last large stretch of natural salt marsh, a flat, 225-acre expanse of tidal creek and phragmites in East Boston, Revere, and Winthrop, crossed by an easy boardwalk loop and a three-story wooden observation tower that's a longtime local birding hotspot.
What to expect
Dogs
Leashed dogs allowed on the marsh trails and boardwalk; no off-leash area. Owners should keep dogs on-path given sensitive salt-marsh bird habitat.
Hours
Open 6:00am to 5:00pm.
Accessibility
Boardwalk sections are level and wheelchair-passable; the 3-story observation tower requires climbing solid steps and is not step-free
Birdwatching
Allowed year-round
Managed by
Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR)
617-727-7059 · WebsiteWhat's here
On site
Info kiosk
trailhead signage/observation tower area
Common questions
Is there an entry fee at Belle Isle Marsh Reservation?
No, entry is free.
Can I bring my dog to Belle Isle Marsh Reservation?
Leashed dogs allowed on the marsh trails and boardwalk; no off-leash area. Owners should keep dogs on-path given sensitive salt-marsh bird habitat.
Is Belle Isle Marsh Reservation wheelchair accessible?
Boardwalk sections are level and wheelchair-passable; the 3-story observation tower requires climbing solid steps and is not step-free