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.
Ellie Finn Photography.
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.
Ellie 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.
Ellie Finn 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!
