03Dec 2017 by southshoretrailsma@gmail.com

Donovan Wildcat / Norwell

The Donovan-Wildcat Conservation Area is rich with history. The conservation area is a 50-acre site that was part of a 1997 land acquisition by the town of Norwell. The conservation land consists of fields and some wooded areas as well. The Donovan fields were originally known as "White Oak Plans" and was part of a large Colonial land grant to the Clap family. It was cleared for farming in 1820. A horse track was also established where Centennial Way is now located. By 1955, there was a thriving and successful apple orchard which is now long gone. The only evidence of this orchard is a low brick building that was used for storage and packing. The construction of the trail was part of a development agreement in 1997. As the...

19Oct 2017 by southshoretrailsma@gmail.com

Jacobs Pond / Norwell

Norwell, Trail

The Jacobs Pond conservation area consists of about 260 acres of land in Norwell. The pond itself consists of about 60 acres of man-made pond and 200 acres of land.The Jacobs Farm (house, barn, hayfields) are owned and protected by the town of Norwell. The pond is incredibly picturesque - especially for an autumn visit. You may even get lucky enough to see a few turtles peek out and say hello. The original pond was named Snapper Pond which in local Native American translated to "rocky water". Some rocks are easily visible from the shore. Why visit? Well, you can do just about everything here that isn't motorized. Fishing, kayaking, cross-country skiing, and all ice related activities (fishing, boating, skating) are permitted. The network of trails lends itself to good walks...

21May 2017 by southshoretrailsma@gmail.com

Stetson Meadows / Norwell

Norwell, Trail

Stetson Meadows is a 184 acre conservation parcel in Norwell located along the North River. The area has a rich history dating back to 1634. Stetson Meadows is one of the more quite trails in Norwell - despite being located very near 3A. You'll have the opportunity to walk through the forest, along the marsh, and run through a field. So pack a snack, some binoculars for birdwatching... and hit the trail. TRAILS: As reflected in the map, the trail system consists of several loops that offer different vistas. The benefit of all the separate loops is you can easily customize the length of your visit. While the terrain is not particularly level, it is level enough for kids to run around and trail running. There are not too many...

26Mar 2017 by southshoretrailsma@gmail.com

Fogg Forest / Norwell

Norwell, Trail

Fogg Forest is a 40 acre piece of land located off Rt 123 in Norwell. The conservation area is very accessible even if the parking is a bit confusing. While we visited during the early Spring, this trail is absolutely worth a visit when the flowers are blooming. Some of the trails are lined with rhododendrons, which would look really amazing. Like many other trails in the area, this forest is rich with stone walls that used to designate property lines and farm fields. The most unique part of this property is an enchanting wooden garden that was built around a stream. You'll feel like you traveled back in time. TRAILS: As reflected in the map, the main trail is a loop with several side trail spurs. The trail beginning is marked with...

19Mar 2017 by southshoretrailsma@gmail.com

Miller Woods / Norwell

Norwell, Trail

Miller Woods is a 46 acre piece of undeveloped land located near Norwell town center. The trail network consists of a great picnic area that is perfect for a couple of friends - or a large family. Miller Woods is great year-round but is perfect in the summer heat as the heavy wooded area will provide some relief from the heat. Miller Woods has remained unchanged for over 150 years. TRAILS: The trails are well maintained and the network is very simple. It is not suitable for many strollers due to the consistently uneven terrain - however the picnic area is perfectly easy to get to for all abilities. POINTS OF INTEREST: Great picnic area! Two sturdy big tables and a few benches for those who want some personal space....

26Feb 2017 by southshoretrailsma@gmail.com

Cuffee Conservation / Norwell

Norwell, Trail

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...

26Feb 2017 by southshoretrailsma@gmail.com

Norris Reservation / Norwell

Norwell, Trail, Trustees of the Reservation

Norris Reservation is one of the most popular trails on the South Shore. The parking lot is consistently full nearly every weekend day - and frequently on week days as well. Why are all these visitors flocking to Norris? Because it is right at the sweet spot for being approachable and interesting. Norris Reservation is ideal for a solo walk with a podcast, two friends looking to catch-up, or a family getting some fresh air after work. Norris covers 129 acres near Norwell center - but the gentle nesting of trails provides enough options for every one who visits. Even with a full parking lot, you can have the trail to yourself for a good stretch of time. By following the trail map, a visitor can sketch out a quick 30...

26Feb 2017 by southshoretrailsma@gmail.com

Hatch Lots / Norwell

Norwell, Trail

Why to visit:Hatch Lots is a great walk for families looking to spend 45 minutes in the woods. The conservation area is just under 50 acres with about 2 miles of trails. It's an out and back trail so there is no loop. There trails are well maintained and include a few small bridges. You'll appreciate them not only for photo opportunities but also to keep your feet/paws out of the mud. Much of the preserve is swamp land. If you are interested in staying away from mud, avoid visiting after a rainy day. But perhaps the best part about a visit to Hatch lots is being able to visit Hornstra Farms! Part of the trail system at Hatch abuts Hornstra Farms fields - but to visit you need to...