The creek itself, a tidal estuary, winds northward through extensive wetlands to a narrow strip of beach along the Connecticut River. Higher ground to the west borders South Cove in Essex. The network of trails allows access to to both the river and the cove for walking and paddling. Although, paddlers will find approaching from the Public Access in Essex Village more convenient than portage along the trails.
The green trail loops around the western half of the preserve. It offers a short access path to South Cove Beach, another access trail (grey blazed) to Turtle Creek Beach and the yellow loop reaching out towards Turtle Creek and back to the green trail. The orange and red trail offer additional cross cuts through the preserve. The blue trail leaves from the parking lot, meets and crosses the orange trail at two points, and extends all the way to Deitch's Pond.
Much of the Turtle Creek Preserve was donated to The Nature Conservancy by the wife of former Connecticut Governor Chester Bowles and was transferred to the Essex Land Trust in April, 2024.
Parking is available on Watrous Point Road. From Route 9, take exit 2 and turn north onto Route 154. Continue straight on Route 154/Middlesex Turnpike for about a half mile, and then turn right onto Watrous Point Road. Preserve entrance is on your left, just past Laurel Way; the entrance is marked by a green and gray Essex Land Trust sign.
By canoe or kayak, the beaches and the entrance to Turtle Creek can be reached from Essex Town Dock - watch for the submerged section of Thatchbed Island.
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