There is an observation tower on the Hellcat Dike; it provides a great view of both pools and the salt marsh and Plum Island Sound to the west.

A Birders Guide to Parker River National Wildlife Refuge has many tips for birding this area of the refuge.

The Hellcat Dike was built in 1942 to prevent saltwater intrusion into the freshwater marsh. The dike was named after the Grumman F6F Hellcat fighter planes that flew over the area during World War II.  

Located along the northeast coast of Massachusetts, Parker River National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1941 to provide a feeding, resting, and nesting habitat for migratory birds. Most commonly associated with Plum Island, a barrier beach island, the refuge is comprised of more than 4700 acres of diverse habitats including sandy beach and dune, cranberry bog, maritime forest and shrubland, and freshwater marsh. The most abundant habitat on the refuge is its 3,000+ acres of salt marsh, one of the most productive ecosystems in nature. Parker River provides a pristine coastal habitat for over 300 species of resident and migratory birds, as well as a large variety of mammals, insects, fish, reptiles, and amphibians. The refuge also provides critical habitat for the federally threatened piping plover.

In addition to its mission of wildlife conservation, the refuge provides a variety of excellent wildlife-dependent recreational activities, including surf fishing, wildlife observation and photography, a variety of interpretive programs, and seasonal waterfowl and deer hunting opportunities. A large visitor center, complete with a classroom and auditorium, msupports many of these public uses.

Parker River has achieved the following special designations: Western Hemispheric Shorebird Reserve Network (WHSRN), Important Bird Area (IBA), and Area of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC).

Hellcat Dike trails offer scenic views of the salt marshes, freshwater wetlands, and coastal forests that provide habitat for a variety of wildlife. The trails are open year-round and are accessible to hikers, bikers, and cross-country skiers. The trails total 5.5 miles long and have two loops: the Marsh Loop and the Dunes Loop. The Marsh Loop is an easy walk on a boardwalk that crosses the marsh and offers opportunities to observe birds. The Dunes Loop is a more challenging hike that climbs over dunes and through dense vegetation. The Dunes Loop has a viewing platform that overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and Plum Island Sound. There is a separate eBird hotspot for the Dunes Loop.

Hellcat Marsh Trail (Birdability) webpage