While Scituate is known for its alluring coastline, you’ll also find hiking trails that meander through woodlands, and sandy paths that allow you to wander among seagrass and marshes. When you need a break from the beach, lace up your shoes and hit the trails at these local parks and conservation areas.
Driftway Conservation Park
This 334-acre stretch of conservation land along the Herring River used to belong to Boston Sand and Gravel in the 1930s when it was mined to build Logan Airport among other projects. Today this area is a multi-use park featuring a fishing pier and small boat ramp in addition to the walking trails. While you may not get much of a workout traversing the sandy paths, you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views from Lookout Hill. Take the A.J. McEachern Trail to a viewing deck at the old pier or to hook up to the other trails. You can also access the Driftway Multi-Purpose Path, a 1.5-mile paved path suitable for walking and biking.
Ellis Estate Trails
The Ellis Estate, now home to the Scituate Arts Association (SAA), was owned by the Bailey and Ellis families up until 1969 when it was sold to the town. In 2015, the town voted to place the estate in conservation. Now the estate comprises 96 acres of woodlands surrounding the historic home. A well-marked network of trails provides 2 miles of hiking options. The marked trails intersect with additional unmarked or “social trails” which are not maintained.
Steep in certain sections, The Ellsburg Trail cuts through some wet areas as it winds its way to Deke’s Pond. The Bailey-Ellis Loop is a little over a half mile and features some large boulders left in the wake of glacial movement thousands of years ago. The Seaview Loop used to offer an unobstructed view of the ocean a century ago; now hikers enjoy a level path through a variety of tree species, namely pine, oak, birch, and even holly.
Hubbell Preserve
The Hubbell Preserve, a 40-acre parcel of land in North Scituate, was a former summer encampment for the Native American tribes in the area. It connects Indian Trail to Gannett Road via one main trail (0.7 mi.) containing a small loop closer to the Indian Trail side. What the trail lacks in length, it makes up for with its varied geological features like glacial boulders and wetland streams making their way through dense woodland. The trail is dotted along the way with log-style benches where you can stop to reflect on the ancient tribes that walked these same woods or just connect with nature. Note: There is no parking lot; however, visitors can park along Indian Trail near the trailhead.
Bates Lane Trails
Over 335 acres of land previously used for farming in Scituate’s West End is now home to a mixed forest of woodland hiking trails. This system of color-coded trails is well-marked with maps located at most intersections. The Maxwell Trail (orange) is the longest trail here and has a couple of steep spots, but it’s worth the trek to get to Teepee Rock, a 430-million-year-old granite outcropping with a view to a low-lying forest below. Continue on, and you’ll connect with the Carl Pipes Trail (blue). On the way, you’ll cross a wooden bridge spanning a babbling brook; it’s a peaceful spot to take a deep breath of fresh air and vow to spend more time outdoors. On your hike you’ll also see glacial boulders, vernal pools, and possibly even a deer or two. From these trails, you can also access the newer Higgins-MacAllister Preserve, an additional 1.2-mile loop off the blue trail.
Scituate Dog Park
167 Driftway / scituatedogpark.com
Looking for a place specifically for your 4-legged companion? The Scituate Dog Park is a puppy playground. This flat, fenced 1-acre park has a circular path, but dogs are allowed to roam freely throughout the park. A water station, waste bags, and receptacle are located near the entrance. Plans are in the works for an additional half acre area designated just for small dogs, so stay tuned.
Other Parks in the Area
If you want to venture outside of Scituate, you don’t have to go far to discover some great hiking areas: Wompatuck State Park with entrances in Cohasset and Hingham, Whitney and Thayer Woods in Cohasset, World’s End in Hingham, and Norris Reservation in Norwell just to name a few.
Book Your Stay Today
Let one of the luxury properties offered by Scituate Oceanside Rentals serve as your home base and haven while in the area. Enjoy the best of both worlds as you explore the trails by day and relax by the ocean each night.
