Spring officially arrived on March 20th, but the sun and warm
weather has been hit or miss since. Thankfully, the forecast now
calls for warmer temperatures, meaning many of us will want to be
outside as much as possible! The South Shore offers some beautiful
spots for hikes, leisurely strolls, or an afternoon family picnic.
Here is our guide to the five best places to enjoy a spring hike on
the South Shore.
Driftway
Conservation Park,Scituate
Walking trails, open fields, a fishing pier, and a trailered
boat launching ramp allow for diverse public use of this hidden
gem. The sunset views from the park are spectacularafter your hike,
take in the serene setting from the dock overlooking the water.
This 1.25-mile loop is dog-friendly and skirts along the Herring
River, which flows into the North River, providing panoramic views
of the salt marshes. A bonus for families with children? Plenty of
open spaces for the little ones to frolic or throw a Frisbee. Ample
seating offers picnic privileges to families looking to extend
their walk into a longer activity. Launch a kayak off the shore, or
jump the rocks in the shallow water.
Finn Photography.
Rexhame Beach Trails,Marshfield
While this trail is perfect year-round, the sea and dune grass
particularly glisten in the spring. The expansive beach is located
in Marshfield and abuts the Humarock section of Scituate. This is
also a dog-friendly trail due to the various paths mixed with stone
and heavy sand, as well as the access to the beach where dogs can
play. The trails run along the South River, with many offshoot
trails for exploringsome wide, and some winding through the dunes.
The sunset views in the distance are something to behold! If you
wish to extend your hike, you may journey out to the pristine, very
private Humarock Beach.
Photography.
Worlds End,Hingham
The tree-lined carriage paths and stunning views of the Boston
skyline make this property ideal for a spring hike or leisurely
walk. 4.5 miles of trails provide a moderate hiking experience and
feature plentiful well-placed benches to stop and take in the water
views. Overlooking Hingham harbor, these trails boast rocky
beaches, ledges, cliffs, salt marsh, and freshwater marsh. Sit and
relax or explore with the kids. Either way, you will find plenty to
do at this well-loved hiking location.
North
River Wildlife Sanctuary, Marshfield
Explore more than 2 miles of trails with relatively easy hiking
terrain at this Mass Audubon site that includes views of woodlands,
maple swamps, and salt marshes. The site also includes a
universally-accessible loop trail and two boardwalks that lead to
the Hannah Eames Brook and the North River, where you may even spot
some harbor seals if you are lucky. If you hold a passion for bird
watching, this may be the trail for you to set up at one of the
observations spots and take in the soothing sights and sounds of
the North River.
The Norris Reservation,Norwell
Located on Dover Street in the historic town of Norwell, this
reservation offers two miles of scenic, laid-back hiking along the
banks of the North River. Choose several loops or out-and back
routes along carriage roads padded with pine needles. The view of
the river tides is a well-received reward for many. Pack a snack or
lunch and stop and relax at one of the many benches along the path,
or take some time at the pond boardwalk to explore your
surroundings.
Happy Hiking!