Are you looking for a way to engage the whole family? Or just challenge yourself on a hike? You should check out the South Shore Quest! The South Shore Quest is an annual challenge to “encourage exploration of the outdoors through the use of CLUE-directed walks through local public lands and parks”. The organization was formed in 1998 and has been delivering fun ever since. Update: Historically, the quest books have been for sale for $5 at local retailers. Given the pandemic, they are posting the book for free online but asking for donations via this link. We love their enthusiasm and dedication to the cause. Consider donating via this link. The Idea Questing is an ideal activity for small groups and families, as well as individuals. By turning a...
Widow's Walk is one of the most popular walking areas in the town of Scituate. Visitors can't wait for golfing season to be over to explore the property. The site is most frequently visited by walkers with dogs. The large property is also well known with bird watchers. Visitors frequently post to town social media about various wildlife sightings like coyote, fox, and different birds of prey. As a commitment to the environment Widow’s Walk became a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary course in 2002. This program ensures a commitment to the environment by establishing avian nesting box programs, providing habitats for numerous other species of animals, and using integrated pest management to apply the least amount of water, pesticides and fertilizer as possible. (source) Visitor Reminders: follow town leash laws....
The Hubbell Trail is located on about 40 acres of land in the North Scituate area of Scituate. While this area is well known for marsh and ocean views, the wooded landscape of the Hubbell preserve is a fresh perspective. The trail is relatively new as compared to other South Shore trails. The Hubbell preserve was initially started in the 1960s with a donation by Dick Hubbell and continued in recent years with an additional 16 acres. In 2016, the initial trail work was initiated by XX as part of an Eagle Scout project. Eagle Scout projects are a great way to enhance the utilization of town resources . The nearby Minot Beach Kayak ramp is another great example. The trail provides a great resource for the Minot and North...
Why to visit: The boardwalk to the Spit is one of the most photographed views in Scituate after the Lighthouse - or that is what social media would lead us to think. The walk out to the beach from Third Cliff is fairly short but incredibly beautiful. Regardless of the weather or season, the marsh and boardwalk are very picturesque. While we think this spot is beautiful all year long, you'll find the Spit Boardwalk most picturesque during the golden photography hours (before mid-morning or late afternoon). Additionally, parts of the boardwalk might be flooded depending on the tide. Caution: There is no legal parking option located directly near the trail entrance. The closest public town parking option is about 1.4 miles away at the AJ Memorial Trail. Trail Details: The...
Why to visit: One of the most picturesque trails in Scituate is the smallest. The old rail trail can be found along the marsh in Scituate's Driftway area. The Driftway area of Scituate includes some beautiful marsh views. Despite being located near a busy road, you'll feel like you were transported to a place far more remote. The AJ Memorial trail is another great option located just down the road. If you only have 15 minutes and just need some fresh air, this rail trail is perfect for you. Enjoy your time on this historically relevant town trail! Trail Details: The trail is just under 1/2 mile long and runs from the small parking lot into the marsh and North River. The environment is perfectly suited for families with...
The Minot Kayak Ramp is a great access point for those looking to explore the North Scituate marshes, Bassing Beach or Cohasset Harbor area. The ramp was formally constructed as part of an Eagle Scout project in 2015-2016 by a Scituate resident. The project went through the formal town processes and has been an incredibly popular kayak ramp ever since. You are almost guaranteed to see another person out of the marsh during your visit - but don't worry, it's not too crowded. In the map below, we've highlighted a route that will take you to Cohasset's Bassing Beach. All you have to do is follow the main path of the marsh and you'll make it there in just over 1 mile. Bassing Beach is a beautifully quiet spot to...
AJ McEachern Memorial Trail is a wonderful spot located on the marsh in Scituate. It is perfect for all ages and offers some of the most beautiful and unique views of Scituate's Landscape. This particular spot is most popular with dog owners, kayakers, and photographers. The parking lot provides the perfect place to launch kayaks on the North River. Even if you aren't interested in a walk, the piers and benches provide a great place to just watch the sunset or enjoy your coffee. You can see Scituate's history through old pier pilings that protrude from the water. TRAILS: The trails are very well maintained, level, and wide in most parts.While the trail network is not officially mapped, you will have no problem getting around. While there are a few...
Why to visit:The Bates Lane network of trails is a hidden treasure in Scituate. I'm embarrassed that I did not know it existed until recently. Each of the 6 trails is unique and worth the time spent on them! What you should know:This was my first time visiting the Bates Lane trails. I find many of my trails by seeing the parking lots as I'm driving by - there is no real parking lot for these trails which is why I never found them before. I think the best place to park is at the Mt Hope Church. This provides for a great entry via the Litchfield Trail. If you happen to find parking near Bates Lane that would also be great. I spent 3 miles exploring all these trails...
