Whitney Thayer Woods is an 824 acre Trustees property located in Cohasset along 3A. The trail network consists of approximately 10 miles of trails through hardwood forests - some of which lead to more forests and others of which lead to incredible views of open fields or the Boston skyline. What makes this property unique are the extensive number of giant boulders left by the prior Ice Age. Some of these are small enough for kids to climb on and others might be 20 feet high.
Why visit? Unlike many other trails, this Trustees property has a sizable parking lot suitable for a large group walks or just never worrying about whether you'll find a spot. The property is so vast that you could explore for hours and only see one other person, especially on a week day. The property is linked to several other conservation lands in the area providing limitless opportunities to explore including Wompatuck Park, Whitney Spur Rail Trail, Turkey Hill, and Weir River Farm.
TRAILS
There are 10 miles of trails that loop through the conservation area. They can vary considerably in terms of accessibility but that old carriage paths are consistent enough for a durable stroller. If you leave that path, you will be likely to find more interesting twisting paths and bridges.
The trail map is well marked so be sure to grab one on your way in or download the Trustees app on your phone. Given how connected this site is to others, if you aren't paying attention you could find yourself several miles from your car.
POINTS OF INTEREST
Milliken Memorial Path, which is lined with rhododendrons, azaleas, and other bright, blooming shrubs from more southerly climes. Planted in the late 1920s, the serene pathway was dedicated in memory of Mabel Minott Milliken by her husband, Arthur N. Milliken.
Several glacier formations along the landscape including: Ode’s Den, named after Theodore “Ode” Pritchard, who lived under one of the boulders after losing his home in 1830. Bigelow Boulder honors the author of the first volume of The Narrative History of Cohasset.
