The Best Walking Trails on the South Shore: 15 Must-Explore Paths

The Best Walking Trails on the South Shore: 15 Must-Explore Paths

Whether you’re chasing ocean breezes, forest vibes, or just need a stroller-friendly loop to tire out the kids, the South Shore has a trail with your name on it. From Scituate to Duxbury and beyond, here are 15 of the best walking trails to stretch your legs and clear your head.

🌊 Coastal Vibes: Trails With Ocean Views

1. World’s End – Hingham

Carriage roads, sweeping harbor views, and gentle hills make this Trustees property a local favorite.

Trail length: 4.5 miles

Pro tip: Come at golden hour for epic sunset pics.

2. Nantasket Beach Walkway – Hull

A paved oceanside boardwalk perfect for people-watching, dog-walking, and strollers.

Trail length: ~2 miles

Pro tip: Grab a soft serve at Paragon Boardwalk after your stroll.

3. Scituate Lighthouse Loop – Scituate

Start at the historic lighthouse, walk along Museum Beach, and loop through quiet neighborhood streets.

Trail length: ~1.5 miles

Pro tip: Park near Cedar Point and stay for sunrise—it’s magic.

4. Duxbury Beach Reservation – Duxbury

Walk across Powder Point Bridge to reach miles of peaceful shoreline.

Trail length: Varies (2–4 miles)

Pro tip: Stop at Farfar’s for ice cream on your way home.

🌲 Forest Escapes & Quiet Conservation Lands

5. Whitney & Thayer Woods – Cohasset/Hingham

Endless trails, huge boulders, and serene woodland make this spot feel miles from anywhere.

Trail length: 10+ miles total

Pro tip: Park at Turkey Hill for a scenic overlook before entering the woods.

6. Wompatuck State Park – Hingham

Paved and wooded trails through 3,500+ acres of forest. Great for longer walks and bikes.

Trail length: 40+ miles total

Pro tip: Visit the old WWII bunkers—super cool (and a little spooky).

7. Norris Reservation – Norwell

Well-maintained paths, quiet ponds, and a tidal river make this perfect for a quick nature escape.

Trail length: ~2.5 miles

Pro tip: Look for turtles sunning on logs at the dock.

8. Bare Cove Park – Hingham

Former naval land turned riverside walking path, with paved trails and plenty of benches.

Trail length: 5+ miles

Pro tip: Easy parking off Beal Street; bring a bike or stroller.

🦆 Marshland Magic & Birdwatching Bliss

9. Daniel Webster Wildlife Sanctuary – Marshfield

Boardwalks, grasslands, and some of the best birdwatching on the South Shore.

Trail length: ~3 miles

Pro tip: Great spot to spot red-winged blackbirds in spring.

10. North Hill Marsh – Duxbury

A peaceful pond loop with dense woods and open skies.

Trail length: 3.5-mile loop

Pro tip: Mosquito repellent is your friend here in summer.

11. Griffin Dairy Farm – Abington

Flat, open trails ideal for little legs, scooters, or joggers.

Trail length: 1.5 miles

Pro tip: Perfect spot for a low-stress dog walk.

🧺 Short & Sweet Trails With Great Picnic Spots

12. Holly Hill Farm – Cohasset

Nature trails meet a working organic farm—kids love visiting the animals!

Trail length: ~1 mile

Pro tip: Check their website for seasonal farm events.

13. Turkey Hill – Cohasset

A quick uphill hike to big ocean views—ideal for a breezy afternoon.

Trail length: 1–2 miles

Pro tip: Pack a sandwich and enjoy the view at the top.

14. Myers Woodland – Scituate

Short, quiet, and perfect for solo walks or short family outings.

Trail length: ~1 mile

Pro tip: Hidden gem—never crowded.

15. Bay Circuit Trail (Segments) – Multiple Towns

A long-distance trail with accessible sections in Norwell, Duxbury, and Hingham.

Trail length: Varies (choose your segment!)

Pro tip: Try the segment through Trout Farm Conservation in Duxbury.

🗺️ Final Tips for South Shore Trail Days

• Parking: Most spots have free lots or roadside parking; some Trustees properties require a membership or small fee.
• Dogs: Many of these are dog-friendly, but bring a leash just in case.
• Family-friendly? Totally. Trails like Norris, Griffin Dairy, and Bare Cove are stroller-approved.

❤️ Got a favorite local trail I missed?

Let me know—we’re always on the hunt for new paths to explore. And if you want more local guides like this, subscribe to the South Shore Rocks newsletter for trails, eats, events, and updates delivered every weekend.

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