The Cuffee conservation area is a really unique spot near the Norwell and Scituate town lines. Like many area trails, there are some beautiful stone walls the criss-cross the woods. Despite one of the largest conservation areas in Norwell, the site feels largely undisturbed by visitors. Upon my first visit, I was almost frustrated by the lack of trail markings but it turns out they are really just faded and slightly inconsistent. The trails themselves feel safe and well cleared.
How did Cuffee get it's name? Well it goes way back. The best description comes from the Norwell Historical Society president - "Cuffee was a slave owned by Joseph Clapp of Mount Blue Street. He married Flora, a former slave of Thomas Clapp, in 1740 in (what is now) First Parish Church in Norwell. Cuffee and Flora had at least three sons to whom they gave the new surname "Grandison."" All three of their sons went on to serve in the Revolutionary War. The land surrounding Cuffee lane was farmed by the Cuffee family for many generations.
The most unique feature to Cuffee is the Black Pond Bog - which has an extremely high acidity level. According to the sign onsite, the pond is a deep glacial kettle hole pond. Plants have specifically adapted themselves to grow along the edge of the pond and create a blog of moss, cranberries, leatherleaf, waterwillow.... and orchids.
The Black Pond Bog Preserve was purchased in 1962 as the first Nature Conservancy preserve in Massachusetts. There is a large rock marking the dedication to Cap'n Bill Vinal who was a long-time preservation advocate and resident of Norwell.
The rest of the trail network at Cuffee is decently marked - but with pretty big wides paths. While we haven't covered the whole network yet, we have checked off the blue, purple, and much of the red trails. There is larger stream that you have to cross if you enter from the Cuffee path entrance. It is not possible with a stroller or toddlers - but just drive to another entrance and you'll be all set.
Enjoy your visit to Cuffee!
There are 3 entrances located between Lincoln St and Old Oaken Bucket Road along Mt Blue St.
Stroller Rating: 1
Town Website
