Elizabeth Noyce Preserve (Louds Island), Bristol
This 106-acre island preserve on Louds Island in Muscongus Bay offers a gentle hiking trail as well as a cobblestone beach surrounded by rugged coastal scenery.
Elizabeth Noyce Preserve is great for:
Picnicking – Enjoy a quiet afternoon on the preserve’s cobblestone beach while marveling at the breathtaking views of Muscongus Bay.
Hiking – Venture along the 0.75-long woods road that leads from the beach on the island’s southern tip to the property’s northern boundary.
How to get there
The nearest boat ramp is in the village of Round Pond, about a mile to the west. The exposed and rocky shoreline around most of the preserve does not permit easy landing by boat. Kayaks and dinghies can land on the cobble beach near the southern tip if the seas are relatively calm, and larger vessels can anchor just east of the bar between Louds and Bar Islands. The bottom here is a mix of mud and large rocks, so some care is required when anchoring.
Please note that the woods road that runs through the preserve continues north onto privately owned land. And, during low tide, a rocky isthmus connects the preserve with privately-owned Bar Island. Please respect the privacy of our neighbors.
For a complete map with legend and guidelines, click on the Printable Preserve Map above.
Notes on topography, flora & fauna
The mostly wooded preserve includes more than one mile of boulder and cobble shoreline. A large wetland is located in the central section of the preserve and you’ll find a few large fern meadows near its southern tip.
Louds Island has a long history of human habitation. First settled in the mid-1700s by William Loud, the island was inhabited by year-round residents until 1962. Today, there are seasonal homes on the island while signs of past inhabitants include stonewalls and foundations.
How this place became open to the public
Located on Louds Island in Muscungus Bay, the 106-acre Elizabeth Noyce Preserve was acquired by MCHT in 1997, when the late philanthropist Elizabeth (Betty) Noyes bequeathed the property to the Trust. Mrs. Noyes viewed the property as a peaceful retreat, and wished for it always to be that way.
This place belongs to all of us. Help us take care of it!
Preserve information/guidelines
- No Camping Permitted
- No Fires Permitted
- Stay on the Established Trail
- Carry Out All Trash
- Including Human and Pet Waste and Toilet Paper
- Keep Pets Under Control
- Please Respect the Privacy of Preserve Neighbors
