Even More Paddling Itineraries!

Summer is coming and paddling season is here! Are you ready to get out on the water? Would you feel “more ready” if you had a better understanding of how the tides affect our local rivers? Come to our “Timing the Tides” presentation on June 17^th at the Scituate Public Library, or watch for additional presentations later this season.

 

Our coastal rivers offer numerous public launch spots for non-motorized boats. For the past two summers, NSRWA has published articles on the various ways to explore them, and you can read them here and here. This year’s article includes favorites from the past along with additional suggestions. In addition, the Paddling section of our online Get Outdoors database lists 100+ places to launch.

 

When you go, be sure that every passenger wears a personal flotation device (PFD). Check the forecast before you leave. It’s no fun trying to out-paddle a thunderstorm. Remember that wind plays just as much of a role as tide, and plan accordingly if there’s a stiff breeze. And if you’re staging a second vehicle, stage a second set of straps (or carry them with you) so you can secure your boat for the ride home! 

 

If you enjoy the outdoors, be sure to check out our Explore South Shore program for 2025. Every morning, we highlight one of the region’s best nature places on Facebook and Instagram. Every Wednesday we feature a spot with water access. Not on social media? We’ve listed all the locations on our website as well! 

North River, Herring Brook, and Indian Head River

Stage a second vehicle at the Hanover Public Launch and then bring your boat to the Pembroke Town Forest on Brick Kiln Lane. Put your boat in the water in Pembroke around ocean high tide. Paddle upstream (to the left), past Fox Hill Shipyard and Third Herring Brook. Soon you’ll see the historic Washington Street Bridge. With the incoming tide in your favor, you’ll be able to paddle under the bridge. Bear in mind that – depending on the height and time of the tide -- the current may be quite swift! Continue past the Route 53 Bridge to the uppermost stretch of the North River, which is quite beautiful. Eventually you’ll come to a crossroads, known colloquially as The Crotch. If you have time to explore Herring Brook, bear left and spend some time paddling this quiet stream before returning to the crossroads. Otherwise, bear right and continue up the Indian Head River to the Hanover Public Launch. (2-3 hours on the water)

Herring River, North River and Cove Creek

Stage a second vehicle at the Marshfield Public Launch on Union Street. Bring your boat to Scituate’s Driftway Conservation Park, and put in the water about 3 hours before ocean high tide. Paddling down Herring River might be slow-going at first, as you’ll be working against the rising tide, but it’s a relatively short journey. When you get to the North River, turn upstream (to the right). From there, you’ll be able to ride the rising tide past Damon’s Point and the Route 3A Bridge. After another big bend in the river, look for Cove Creek on the left. At this point in the tide cycle, you’ll be able to explore quite a bit of the creek. Then return to the North River, continuing upstream to your second vehicle, just after the Union Street Bridge. Note: this journey is best undertaken when motorboat traffic on the river is low. Perhaps in the morning, or on a weekday. (3-4 hours on the water)

Bound Brook, Musquashcut Brook and the Gulf River

The Town of Scituate has done a lot of work at the Mordecai Lincoln Mill and Homestead, making it more accessible to the public and offering new opportunities for exploration. They recently established a launch area for canoes and kayaks on Bound Brook, which is a great spot for those seeking an out-and-back paddling excursion in this gorgeous expanse of river and marsh. Put your boat in the water 4 hours after the Cohasset low tide and head downstream (to the right). Musquashcut Brook and the Gulf River both offer opportunities to explore, but steer clear of the Border Street Bridge area where currents can be dangerously swift. We recommend returning to your starting point around the ocean high tide or soon after. (2-3 hours on the water)

Scenic South River Marshes 

Begin at the South River public launch at Francis Keville Footbridge in Marshfield, a short walk down the Rail Trail from Dandelion Park. Put your boat in the water 2-3 hours before ocean high tide. Paddle downstream for an hour or two. You will be working against the tide, but it’s a pretty gentle tide this far upriver! Make a stop at the Bourne Island Lagoon, then ride the rising tide back to your starting place. Parking is available in Marshfield Center. (2-4 hours on the water)

North River – “No Gains” and Blueberry Island

Bring your boat to the Pembroke Town Forest on Brick Kiln Lane, and put it in the water about 4 hours after ocean high tide. Paddle downstream (to the right) toward Marshfield with the receding tide. Along the way, you’ll experience the winding “No Gains” section of the river and pass under Route 3. Continue onward to Blueberry Island or Couch Beach, where you can stop to stretch your legs and rest a while. By then, the tide will have turned, and you can paddle along with it back to your starting place. (4 hours on the water)

by Kezia Bacon

June 2025

  

Kezia Bacon's articles appear courtesy of the North and South Rivers Watershed Association, a local non-profit organization devoted to protecting our waters. For membership information and a copy of their latest newsletter, contact NSRWA at (781) 659-8168 or visit www.nsrwa.org. You will also find 27+ years of Kezia’s Nature columns there. For more information about the “Where in the Watershed?”/Postcards from the ‘Shed Contest, visit https://www.nsrwa.org/2025-nsrwa-explore-south-shore-contest-rules/

 

8 Local Spots to Awaken the Senses

One of the best things about exploring the outdoors is experiencing the beauty of the natural world. Our rivers and streams, marshes and beaches, forests and meadows present such inviting landscapes. There is always plenty to observe and appreciate. But spending time outdoors also provides opportunities to explore with the other senses. This month’s article highlights places you can go not only to enjoy the view, but also to take note of the scents, sounds, tastes and textures that accompany it.

 

Brant Rock Beach, Marshfield

Choose a time when the tide is relatively low, and find your way to the end of the Brant Rock jetty, to the giant rock that gives this seaside village in Marshfield its name. Find a dry spot to sit, and then close your eyes. Notice the contours of the stone beneath you, feel the spray of the sea on your face, take a deep breath of ocean air. The view of the shoreline is worth noticing as well! Located at 330 Ocean Street, Marshfield. No fee for off-season parking (after Labor Day and before Memorial Day weekend). 

Rockland Rail Trail

The 3.5-mile Rockland Rail Trail extends from West Hanover, through Rockland, to North Abington – spanning a broad swath of the French’s Stream watershed. Wheelchair- and stroller-friendly, and ideal for walking and bicycling, it offers numerous access points. It’s also a great place to enjoy the smell of sweet pepperbush! In July and August, when it might be too hot and humid to venture very far into the woods, this paved, tree-lined trail is redolent with the scent of sweet pepperbush in bloom. Abundant at many of our local nature areas, this green shrub produces clusters of white flowers that smell both sweet and peppery. Park in the lot at 638 Market Street, Rockland and explore the trail in either direction.

 

South River Bog, Duxbury

All over the South Shore, there are cranberry bogs in the process of re-wilding. The recently-retired still look very much like active cranberry bogs. Others – much farther along – may be more difficult to discern. This 100-acre property in Duxbury belongs to the latter category. Occasionally you’ll catch glimpses of canals and sluiceways, but the wetlands, woods and waterways are more likely to grab your attention. If you stop by in the springtime, I recommend spending some time with your eyes closed. Find your way to one of the two spots where the trail crosses the South River. There, amidst the marshes, you’re likely to see – and hear – quite a few birds! Very limited parking (1-2 vehicles) at approx. 53 North Street. Pedestrian access from Tanglewood Trail and Highland Trail.

Chapman’s Landing, Hanover

This large property offers several intersecting trails that loop through woods and wetlands, with views of the Indian Head River, the North River, and the freshwater tidal marsh that surrounds them. Follow the green trail to the northeastern section, where you’ll notice there are quite a few large stones at the water’s edge -- ballast left behind from shipping and shipbuilding days. At the edge of the river, you’ll also find a tall observation platform. Climb to the top and enjoy not only the spectacular view, but the river breeze! How high is the tide? Do you hear any birds? Does this freshwater marsh smell different from the saltwater marshes downstream? Ample on-site parking at the end of Indian Head Drive, Hanover.

Tucker Preserve, Pembroke

Another great sound to listen for while spending time in nature is flowing water. This 78-acre Wildlands Trust property not only offers access to the Indian Head River, it provides close-up views of some of the smaller streams that flow into it. Follow the main trail along the river, through the woods, and eventually you will arrive at a rocky stream crossing. Find a place to sit, and then close your eyes and listen. Depending on the time of year and the amount of precipitation we’ve had, you might hear a soft tinkling or a forceful roar. Ample on-site parking at Ludden’s Ford Park, West Elm Street, Pembroke.

George Washington Forest, Hingham

Also known as the Hingham Town Forest, this 197-acre woodland features 3 miles of both wide and narrow trails across rolling hills and forested esker ridges. It is also a feast for the senses! Find a quiet spot and then close your eyes. Can you smell the pine? Hear chipmunks, squirrels and other critters moving about? Also be on the lookout for wild blueberry shrubs along the trails. The property has plenty, and if you time your visit just-so in midsummer, you can treat yourself some of these small but flavorful morsels. Located in the watershed of Fulling Mill Brook, a tributary to the Weir River. Limited roadside parking on South Pleasant Street and Charles Street.

John Little Conservation Area, Marshfield

Follow the red-blazed trail through this 75-acre property to the wooden walkway that provides access to the North River. In the cooler months, stand at the end of the pier and feel the river breeze. Is it moving in the same direction as the tide? In the warmer months, venture out onto the float and dip your hand into the water. Is the temperature what you expected? Does it feel salty or fresh? Can you smell the marshes and mud? Look for the small parking lot at 905 Union Street. 

Route 3A Bridge, Scituate

Are you a true nature lover? Test yourself by stopping by this scenic and historic spot on the North River at low tide. The roadside parking area offers views of the marsh and the river, and sometimes the breeze can be quite nice! But today you’re here for the smell. Specifically, the pungent scent of low tide. Do you love it or loathe it? Does it smell like rotten eggs to you ... or does it smell like home? Rest assured, all answers are correct. There’s no “right” way to enjoy nature! On-site parking at 12 Chief Justice Cushing Highway, Scituate.

 

Looking for more places to explore? 

The Get Outdoors section of our website features 500 places on the South Shore to enjoy the natural world. More than 200 of them feature walking trails, but there are also some lovely spots to just sit and enjoy the view. Each listing includes parking information, trail maps, and plenty more.

 

If you love the outdoors and would appreciate a daily suggestion for where to enjoy it, follow “Postcards From the ‘Shed” our 2025 Explore South Shore program. In addition to inspiring photos and access information, we share details about each property’s watershed. Every day on Facebook and Instagram, we highlight a different spot. Not on social media? We’ve included all the locations on our website as well! Plus test your knowledge with our monthly “Where in the Watershed?” photo quiz! 

by Kezia Bacon

May 2025

 

Kezia Bacon's articles appear courtesy of the North and South Rivers Watershed Association, a local non-profit organization devoted to protecting our waters. For membership information and a copy of their latest newsletter, contact NSRWA at (781) 659-8168 or visit www.nsrwa.org. You will also find 27+ years of Kezia’s Nature columns there. For more information about the “Where in the Watershed?”/Postcards from the ‘Shed Contest, visit https://www.nsrwa.org/2025-nsrwa-explore-south-shore-contest-rules/

17 Places to Hear Spring Peepers

One evening in mid-March -- one of the first warm days of the year -- I stepped out the back door at twilight and encountered a delightful surprise: a chorus of spring peepers! I wasn’t expecting to hear them so soon. Their chirping cries from the freshwater wetlands that border our property might be my favorite sign of spring. 

Spring peepers are frogs. Relatively small in size (adults range in length from 0.75-1.25 inches), they dwell in the leaf litter in forested areas around swamps, ponds and streams. Light brown, tan or gray in color, with a dark “X” across their backs, they nourish themselves first with algae and later with spiders, insects and larvae. Only the males make their characteristic high-pitched sound. Spring is mating season, and that chirp is useful when attracting a mate.

 

Would you like to hear their cheerful chorus? The list below is a small sampling of local spots where – when the conditions are right -- you can hear spring peepers! There are plenty more – just look for any woodland where there’s also fresh water. Plan your visit toward the end of the day, when they really come alive.

Abington – Ames Nowell State Park

Listen for spring peepers at this 700-acre property on Linwood Street, which features 10+ miles of paved and unpaved trails through forest and wetlands in the Beaver Brook/Taunton River watershed. Ample on-site parking.

Braintree – Cranberry Pond Conservation Area

This 140-acre forest on the Braintree-Holbrook line features 2 miles of trails, plus views of Cranberry Pond and Cranberry Brook in the Fore River watershed. Limited on-site parking on Eutaw Road and Hillsdale Road.

Cohasset – Whitney Spur Rail Trail

This 1.5-mile trail connects the Cohasset MBTA station with Whitney and Thayer Woods, Turkey Hill, and Wompatuck State Park. It extends through two different watersheds – Great Swamp, which flows to Hingham Bay, and the Aaron River, which empties into the Gulf River via Bound Brook. Designated free parking at 110 Chief Justice Cushing Highway (Route 3A), Cohasset. 

Duxbury – Camp Wing Conservation Area

This 450-acre property in the Phillips Brook/South River watershed offers 2.7 miles of trails in two sections, plus an observation platform overlooking a freshwater wetland – a great spot to listen for peepers. Limited on-site parking at 654 Franklin Street, and on Temple Street.

Halifax – Striar Conservancy

This 168-acre Wildlands Trust property features a quiet, 0.8-mile woodland trail with numerous footbridges and five certified vernal pools. A short side trail offers a beautiful view of the Winnetuxet River, part of the Taunton River watershed. Limited on-site parking on Thompson Street (Route 105). 

Hanover – Folly Hill and Bog Iron Trails

With 3.6 miles of trails extending through 130 acres of conservation and water protection land this property is the perfect spot to listen for peepers. Be sure to check out Iron Mine Brook, a tributary to the Indian Head River. Trail access and parking at the Water Department land at 519 Broadway.

Hanson – Poor Meadow Brook Conservation Area

Explore the forests and wetlands around Poor Meadow Brook and the Shumatuscacant River, part of the Taunton River watershed. This 115-acre property features a mile-long trail in two intersecting loops. Limited on-site parking at 891 W Washington Street.

Hingham – Wompatuck State Park

There is a lot to see in this 3500-acre state park. To hear spring peepers, leave your vehicle at the park’s Transfer Station and explore the trails near Picture Pond and Boundary Pond, part of the Aaron River/Gulf River watershed. Ample on-site parking.

Kingston – Camp Nekon

This 206-acre forested parcel features numerous ponds and wetlands, and at least 2 miles of trails and unpaved roadways. You should be able to hear peepers anywhere within it, but especially around Smelt Pond, which is part of the Jones River watershed. Limited on-site parking on Monks Hill Road. 

Marshfield – Webster’s Wilderness

This 130-acre property features a 2-mile trail network through lowland forest and wetlands, plus a certified vernal pool. Wharf Creek, a tributary to the Green Harbor River, flows through it. Park at Wheeler Recreation Campus, behind the Marshfield Senior Center, at 230 Webster Street.

Norwell Pathway

Boardwalk C on this 3-mile trail remains closed for now, and we hope Norwell Town Meeting will approve its repairs on May 5th. In the meantime, visit the boardwalk between Norwell Middle School and the Donovan-Wildcat Conservation Area, which traverses the freshwater wetlands around Margaret’s Brook, a tributary to Third Herring Brook and the North River. Ample parking at Norwell Middle School, 328 Main Street.

Pembroke High School and Hobomock Elementary Trails

These wide, well-maintained trails at Pembroke High School extend for 3 miles through woods and wetlands in the watershed of Herring Brook, a tributary to the North River. Limited off-street parking toward the end of Learning Lane. 

Plymouth – Hedges Pond Recreation Area & Preserve

This 105-acre woodland park and nature preserve features a 2.25-mile trail loop that offers ample opportunities to hear spring peepers. Limited on-site parking 166 Hedges Pond Road.

Plympton – Cato’s Ridge

This 105-acre property features a 2-mile network of woodland trails plus a 600-foot boardwalk over the Jones River Brook and its surrounding wetlands. Part of the Jones River watershed, with a 5-vehicle parking lot at 81 Main Street. 

Rockland – Rockland Town Forest

This 43-acre property features a well-maintained woodland trail network, with boardwalks, and numerous views of French’s Stream, a tributary to the Indian Head River. Limited on-site parking at 482 North Ave.

Scituate – Higgins-MacAllister Preserve

This property’s 1.2-mile loop trail extends through woods and wetlands, with views of Merritt Brook, a tributary to Bound Brook, part of the Gulf River watershed. Parking area at the end of Holly Crest Road. 

Weymouth – Bradford Torrey Bird Sanctuary

This 110-acre property features more than 3 miles of trails in the Weymouth Back River watershed. On-site parking area on Main Street, north of Park Ave. and south of Hunter Terrace. 

 

Looking for more places to explore? 

The Get Outdoors section of our website features 500 places on the South Shore to enjoy the natural world. More than 200 of them feature walking trails, but there are also some lovely spots to just sit and enjoy the view. Each listing includes parking information, trail maps, and plenty more.

 

If you love the outdoors and would appreciate a daily suggestion for where to enjoy it, follow “Postcards From the ‘Shed” our 2025 Explore South Shore program. In addition to inspiring photos and access information, we share details about each property’s watershed. Every day on Facebook and Instagram, we highlight a different spot. Not on social media? We’ve included all the locations on our website as well! Plus test your knowledge with our monthly “Where in the Watershed?” photo quiz! 

by Kezia Bacon, NSRWA Community Engagement Manager

 

Kezia Bacon's articles appear courtesy of the North and South Rivers Watershed Association, a local non-profit organization devoted to protecting our waters. For membership information and a copy of their latest newsletter, contact NSRWA at (781) 659-8168 or visit www.nsrwa.org. You will also find 27+ years of Kezia’s Nature columns there. For more information about the “Where in the Watershed?”/Postcards from the ‘Shed Contest, visit https://www.nsrwa.org/2025-nsrwa-explore-south-shore-contest-rules/

The 1871 North River Dam

Imagine a 4300-foot barrier extending from Third Cliff in Scituate, across the mouth of the North River to Fourth Cliff. Imagine this structure continuing south along the western shore of Humarock, crossing the South River upstream of today’s Sea Street Bridge. Imagine a solid, curving wall enclosing today’s estuary, and preventing ocean tides from flowing up the North River. It seems radical, but in 1871 this very thing was not only proposed, but authorized! 

Imagine the North River in 1871. The shipbuilding industry had long since peaked, with the last of its major vessels -- the Helen M. Foster – to be produced that spring. The calamitous Portland Gale was still 27 years into the future. The river itself ran along its pre-1898 course. It was three miles longer then, with its outlet to the sea at today’s Rexhame Beach. An 1858 effort to relocate the river mouth to its current location had failed, the dredging machine no match for Mother Nature. 

 

In January 1871, the Fifth Annual Report of the Board of Harbor Commissioners indicated, “the total abandonment of all commercial enterprises on the North River.” Trains, roads, and bridges had replaced the river as primary transportation routes. The grand hotels that would soon transform the beaches of Marshfield and Scituate into resort destinations had not yet been established. Motor boats would not be invented for another decade at least. Although many workers traveled to factories upstream in Hanover and Pembroke, our river towns were very much agricultural communities. Salt marsh hay was still a valuable crop.

 

And thus, the notion of “reclaiming the marshes” began to gain traction. Positing that a dam across the North River would not “sacrifice ... interests of navigation,” land owners wondered if the salt meadows could be converted into farmland. Could the marshes be drained, expanding their potential for agriculture? By restricting the flow of salt water, could more arable land be created in the river valley? At least some residents viewed it a worthy inquiry. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts gave its blessing.

Chapter 287 of the Acts of 1871, “An Act to Authorize the Construction of Dams Across North River in Plymouth County,” reads, “The several proprietors of the marshes on North River ... are hereby authorized to drain said marshes by sluice-dams, dikes or other obstructions across said river, in the same manner as if the same had never been navigable ...” 

 

Clemens Herschel, a Hydraulic and Civil Engineer based in Boston, was hired to sketch out a plan. He proposed raising and fortifying the narrow shingle beach between Third and Fourth Cliffs. In addition, a 300+-foot dam would be constructed across the river, extending northeast from White’s Ferry. In between, northern Humarock would serve as a bulwark. Freshwater from upstream would flow to the ocean through three sluiceways. To assist drainage, a channel would be cut across southern Humarock, a short distance downstream of the dam. The estimated cost was $27,665.00.

There is no evidence of the North River Dam proceeding any farther than the proposal stage. However, a similar project did take place a few miles down the coast, on the Green Harbor River, the following year, with less-than optimal results. While the idea of a North River Dam may have been set aside, it wasn’t entirely dismissed. A 1915 report cited it as “still worthy of some consideration.”

 

From today’s perspective, it’s hard to imagine the North River walled off from the ocean, severed from the South River, with no access for boats downstream. It’s hard to imagine those 2,000 acres of salt marsh drained and sequestered ... not to mention how such changes would impact the diverse array of flora and fauna residing therein.

 

Fortunately, because of the 1978 North River Scenic Protective Order, new dams are strictly prohibited in the river corridor. In the 21^st century, dam removals are much more common than dam construction projects. The majority of our local dams are relics from centuries past, employed for a time by mills and factories but long since obsolete. 

 

Among the many benefits of removing them include: restoring the natural flow of rivers and streams, reconnecting wildlife habitats, and enhancing fish passage and migration range. As proposed, the 1871 North River Dam would have been disastrous for species such a herring and shad, who live in the ocean but spawn in freshwater, far upstream. That impact would have rippled far up the food chain, affecting the birds, mammals and larger fish. 

 

Ready to lend a hand with river restoration on the South Shore? Consider participating in our annual herring count! Each spring, we monitor fish populations to gauge the impact of things such as dams, drought, climate change, and shifts in predation. The data we collect really makes a difference! Sign up today on our website.

by Kezia Bacon

March 2025

 

Kezia Bacon's articles appear courtesy of the North and South Rivers Watershed Association, a local non-profit organization devoted to protecting our waters. For membership information and a copy of their latest newsletter, contact NSRWA at (781) 659-8168 or visit www.nsrwa.org. You will also find 27+ years of Kezia’s Nature columns there. 

Sledding Hills of the South Shore

How fun to wake up to snow on a day off from school! In January, while town offices and businesses paused their regular schedules to honor Martin Luther King Jr., families all over the South Shore headed for the hills... the sledding hills! With sunny skies and not-too-frigid temperatures, it was the perfect day to inflate a snow tube, try out a new racer, or even dust off an old toboggan. But where to go? Each town has its own special sledding spots. The list below highlights a few tried-and-true public properties that welcome sledders in the wintertime. 

Sledding is not for everyone, of course. If you’re more inclined to enjoy the wintry outdoors on less slippery ground, there are plenty of options for getting some fresh air while keeping your legs dry. The Get Outdoors section of NSRWA’s website features 500+ places on the South Shore where the public can enjoy the natural world. Looking for a place to cross-country ski? We’ve listed more than 100. Prefer a brisk walk? We offer detailed info on more than 200 trails. Each listing on Get Outdoors includes parking information, trail maps, and much, much more.

 

If you love the outdoors and would appreciate a daily suggestion for where to enjoy it, we encourage you to follow “Postcards From the ‘Shed” our Explore South Shore program for 2025. This year, in addition to inspiring photos and access information, we’re including details about each property’s watershed. Every day on Facebook and Instagram, we highlight a different spot. Not on social media? We’ve included all the locations on our website as well! Plus test your knowledge with our monthly “Where in the Watershed?” photo quiz! 

South Shore Country Club, Hingham

This town-owned facility is best known for golf, but it also offers tennis courts and a bowling alley. In the winter, it welcomes the public to its grassy slopes for sledding. Cross-country skiers are also welcome. When they’re not frozen, the waters here drain to the Fresh River, part of the Weymouth Back River watershed.

Ample on-site parking at 274 South Street, Hingham.

 

Coast Guard Hill, Marshfield

Formerly a Coast Guard Communications Center, this grassy 40-acre property is now the home of the Marshfield Recreation Department. It features a popular sledding hill, along with walking trails, volleyball, basketball and horseshoe courts, a playground and a picnic area. It is situated in the watershed of Clapp Creek, a tributary to the South River. Limited on-site parking at 900 Ferry Street, Marshfield.

Weston Park, Weymouth

Located behind Tufts Library, this multi-use park on the outskirts of Weymouth Landing features two playgrounds, a picnic area, and 0.6 miles of walking paths. When there’s snow on the ground, it’s a popular spot for sledding. It lies within the watershed of Smelt Brook, a tributary to the Fore River.Ample on-site parking at 46 Broad Street, Weymouth.

Widow’s Walk Golf Course, Scituate

While reserved for golf from March through December, this scenic public course opens its pathways and hills to sledding and cross-country skiing in January and February. The view from the higher elevations is spectacular! It’s located in the watershed of the Herring River, a tributary to the North River. Ample on-site parking at 250 Driftway, Scituate.

North Hill Country Club, Duxbury

In the winter, this public nine-hole golf course is a very popular spot for sledding. It offers a variety of hills, including some tall, steep ones! It is situated within the watershed of West Brook, a tributary to the Duck Hill River. Ample on-site parking at 29 Merry Ave., Duxbury.

Whitman Town Park

Designed by the Olmsted Brothers, this grassy 14-acre property has something for everyone. In the winter, its gently rolling hills are a great spot for young sledders. Other features include a playground, a pond, broad walking paths, and numerous benches. Not far from the Shumatuscacant River, it lies within the Taunton River watershed. Numerous roadside parking spaces on Whitman Ave., adjacent to the park.

Strawberry Valley Golf Course, Abington

When it snows, this 9-hole golf course is open to the public for sledding, with both large and small hills. Its waters flow into the Stream River, which is part of the Taunton River watershed. Limited on-site parking at 164 Washington Street (Route 18), Abington.

 

by Kezia Bacon

February 2025

 

Kezia Bacon's articles appear courtesy of the North and South Rivers Watershed Association, a local non-profit organization devoted to protecting our waters. For membership information and a copy of their latest newsletter, contact NSRWA at (781) 659-8168 or visit www.nsrwa.org. You will also find 27+ years of Kezia’s Nature columns there. Click here for more information about the “Where in the Watershed?”/Postcards from the ‘Shed Contest.