Halibut Point Reservation is known for its bird watching, tidal pools, stunning views, and the former Babson Farm Quarry. The trails are very walkable with some elevation if you travel to and from the water’s edge. Keep clear of the poison ivy!
Distance
2.2 Miles
Hike Time
1.5 Hours
The cloud cover finally lifted on our way over to Halibut Point Reservation in Rockport early Monday afternoon. We were able to enjoy a nice hike around the quarry and out to the grout mound observation area under a very warm Fall sun. There isn’t much more to say about this place because its natural beauty says it all. We are blessed to have such easy access to so many beautiful land and sea scrapes here on Cape Ann. There is a charge to park and even though there is a large lot it does get busy so plan ahead.
Welcome to Halibut Point.
Enjoying a beautiful fall afternoon.
The foliage was stunning.
The photo below reminds me of Up-Island on Martha’s Vineyard. I think it is because both places are windswept by the open ocean and the vegetation tends to cling to the rocks for protection.
My grandmother used to say that Chilmark and Menemsha reminded her of her home on the Isle of Skye in Scotland because of how the trees grew in the direction of the unrelenting onshore winds.
The pile of broken pieces of granite or grout from the mining process now serves as a lookout point at the edge of the ocean. If you are standing at the very end you can see all the way up the coast to Maine.
Also notice that the winterberry has turned bright red along the edge of the quarry.
Had to stop at one of our favorite spots for local seafood – The Lobster Pool in Rockport. We had lobster rolls but they didn’t last long enough to photograph!
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