Mass Audubon

Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Mass Audubon's wildlife sanctuaries, covering about 1,405 acres across Lenox and Richmond in the Berkshires. Its trails run through forests, meadows and wetlands and up the slopes of Lenox Mountain, with options from easy walks to strenuous hikes. Beavers are the sanctuary's most visible residents, and visitors often spot their dams, dens and lodges. Naturalist-guided canoe trips, birding walks and family programs also take place here.

Trails are open daily from dawn to dusk, and the nature center and barn keep set hours every day of the week. Admission is modest, and members get in free. Foot travel only, so dogs and horses are not allowed, though service animals are welcome. The sanctuary sits on West Mountain Road in Lenox, with a universally accessible trail, restrooms and picnic tables on site.