Very nice area to hike with a veriety of ponds and lakes to visit as you progress through the wildlife sanctuary. The trails are not to demanding, so hikers of any skill level should feel very comfortable. Super area to spend and hour or two with plenty of scenery, water and wildlife to observe. read more

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Engaging and enjoyable hiking area and nature preserve with a number of ponds and lakes to skirt by. The main trail loop was only about 2 miles or so (actually a bit too short in our opinion) and not at all arduous. Being early spring, we didn't have to deal with dense foliage or undergrowth and so the trails were brighter and could see the forest for the trees, so to speak. The ponds themselves are beautiful to behold; the largest one - Watchaug - has a nice sandy/beachy shoreline. However, our favorite was the eponymous Kettle pond which was so glassy-smooth and tranquil, we could've stayed there forever, mesmerized. read more

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Connecting people with nature Kettle Pond is a cool new visitor center and hiking area that is convenient located right off of Route 1 in Charlestown. Tucked in between Burlingame State Park and Ninigret Park it is a nice place to learn about the wildlife of the region and even go for a short hike. Their sign says, "connecting people with nature", and indeed that is what they do. The main building offers exhibits, maps and discovery stations that offer information and instruction on what the Wildlife Service is doing to protect the natural habitat and it's critters, as well as lots of cool displays and models of the geology, floral and fauna of the area. Even a large classroom for special events, demonstrations and lectures. The hiking trails aren't very long or particularly challenging but are fun, especially in the winter when everything is covered with snow. You pass by vernal pools, some cool boulders and get to check out the forest and creatures of a glacial moraine. The trails in the Visitor Center intersect several other well known trails in the area so you can extend your hiking to many hours if you wish. The center is open 10 to 4 all year long and there is no admission charge but of course donations are gladly accepted. There is a large and well plowed parking lot that usually has plenty of space although on occasion school groups or special events can fill it. There is even a nice gift shop to spend money on books, maps, crummy t-shirts and educational items. Kettle Pond isn't the largest hiking area around but is a cool place to learn about the unique kettle ponds of the area and see some cool wildlife and plants. Not a bad way to spend the day, especially if you a a person wishing to learn and connect with nature. read more

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