A 147-acre wetland and forest property around the 22-acre Ames Pond, built out over 40 years by Julian Janowitz with a boardwalk and wood, glass, and metal sculptures, protected since 2003 by a Conservation Restriction held by DCR and now stewarded by Kestrel Land Trust following his 2021 bequest.
What to expect
Parking
Free lot free · unconfirmed
Trails
Roughly 5 miles of trails through wetland and forest to a cliffside overlook, with a boardwalk over the bog (about 1,000 feet) and Janowitz's sculpture…
Accessibility
Phase one added a universally accessible meadow trail from the parking area to a platform overlooking Ames Pond; the rest of the trail network, including the aging boardwalk, is not accessible.
Birdwatching
Allowed year-round
What's here
On site
Info kiosk
Trailhead signage.
Common questions
Are the sculptures still there?
Yes. Julian Janowitz's wood, glass, and metal sculptures remain along the trails as part of the property's character.
Is this the same place as the Janowitz Conservation Restriction seed?
Yes, it is the same 147-acre property; Ames Pond Conservation Area, Julian's Bower, and Bright Water Bog Nature Retreat are all names used for it.
Where do I park at Bright Water Bog Nature Retreat?
Free lot (free).
Is there an entry fee at Bright Water Bog Nature Retreat?
No, entry is free.
Is Bright Water Bog Nature Retreat wheelchair accessible?
Phase one added a universally accessible meadow trail from the parking area to a platform overlooking Ames Pond; the rest of the trail network, including the aging boardwalk, is not accessible.
What rules should I know at Bright Water Bog Nature Retreat?
Boardwalk sections are described as deteriorating in places pending the Phase two replacement project; footing may be uneven.