Description

Spend a day with us in celebration of Choate Island – the crown jewel of the Crane Wildlife Refuge. Here deer and foxes roam through fields that once housed herds of sheep, and osprey fly over breathtaking views of Essex Bay. The island was first home to indigenous farmers and fishers, then to generations of the Choate family, and was later a retreat for Cornelius and Miné Crane, who loved the place so much they decided to be buried at the summit. Your day may take you on any adventure you choose, including hiking through miles of walking trails, observing wild landscapes with a fall treat in hand, hearing first-hand accounts of island life and history, and taking self-guided explorations of the historical Proctor Barn and Choate House. 

Park at Crane Beach (at the end of Argilla Road) – parking will be free for this event, and board our shuttle bus to take you straight down to the boat dock (less than 5 minute drive). There you can check in (if you purchased tickets online) or buy tickets at the boat dock (if available) before boarding the ferry to the island, which is less than 10 minute boat trip one way. The shuttles will run continuously between 10AM and 3PM. The last boat to the Island departs at 1pm, and the last boat returns from the island at 3PM.