Below, I have listed my Top 10 Bucket List Trails that I am excited to do in the next year.
1. The Grand Wenham Canal
Wenham, MA
By Daderot. – Self-photographed, CC BY-SA 3.0
*We took a ride over to the Wenham entrance to this trail back in November 2020, but it was closed. After doing some research, we discovered that the Grand Wenham Canal can also be accessed via the Topsfield Rail Trail in Topsfield, MA. So, on a cold day in January 2021, we took a ride over to Topsfield, located the entrance to the canal, and hiked its length to Wenham and back to where it intersects the Topsfield Rail Trail. It was a straight shot back & forth, and at that time of year, the ground was frozen and tricky underfoot.
2. Donibristle reservation
Topsfield, MA
Photo Credit: Greenbelt Essex County’s Land Trust
Coming soon. Under construction.
3. Stoney Cove and Presson Point
Gloucester, MA
Photo Credit: Greenbelt Essex County’s Land Trust
Stoney Cove and Presson Point area (which I called Preston Point all my life) is located about 200 – 300 yards after you pass Exit 54 in West Gloucester on the northbound side of R 128. Once you pass the exit, slow down because the entrance is just a break in the guardrail. The dirt parking lot holds about 3 or 4 cars, and the trailhead is to the right of the stone pier. Dogs are allowed on this rock and root trail. Well worth the effort to find & explore this little gem. We meandered along the trail for about 2 miles and ended up on the far side of the cove looking back to Nichols Candies and 128.
4. Arthur Ewell Reservation
Rowley, MA
Photo Credit: Greenbelt Essex County’s Land Trust
Spring is in the air! If you are looking for a short hike to get some fresh air, the Essex County Greenbelt Arthur Elwell Reservation is the perfect location. Tucked away just off of Rt 133 in Rowley, MA, this property has a large open field maintained by the Rowley Riding and Driving Club and a quiet woodland trail that runs along the Upper Mill Pond and then veers into a pine forest. The easy loop is just about 1 mile and would be a fun place to take kids and dogs. (4.5.22) https://ecga.org/Property/Arthur-Ewell-Reservation April 6, 2022
5. Bow Ridge Reservation
Lynnfield, MA
Photo Credit: William Laforme of Patch.com
Coming soon. Under construction.
6. Green Meadows and Vineyard Hill
Hamilton, MA
Photo Credit: Essex County Trail Association
Coming soon. Under construction.
7. Frank Newhall Look Park
Northampton, MA
By User:Magicpiano – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0
Coming soon. Under construction.
8. Charles River Wildlife Reservation
Andover, MA
By User:Magicpiano – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0
Coming soon. Under construction.
9. Frank Knowles / Little River Reserve
Dartmouth, MA
Photo Credit: Dartmouth Natural Resources Trust
Coming soon. Under construction.
1o. Goldsmith Woodlands
Andover, MA
Photo Credit: Mass Audobon Society
We hiked this beautiful boutique 170-acre property on October 20, 2022. We shared the trail with other hikers. a few runners, and some very friendly dog owners. The trails were dirt roadways with slight elevation here and there. The foliage was at its peak and mixed between towering pine trees. The property was once owned by Bessie Goldsmith, who loved the woodlands around Foster Pond. We made our way out to the trail’s end, called appropriately “Journey’s End,” and stopped to enjoy the open view of the pond. There was a picnic table on the flat area above the peninsula that would be perfect for lunch or just a quick rest. The parking area holds about 6 cars and has a quick turnover. The trail was about 3.25 miles round trip from the trailhead to Journey’s End and back to parking lot. We did take a few very short side trails – all well-marked. The parking lot is at 491 South Main St., Andover, MA.
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