South Shore Quest 2020

Are you looking for a way to engage the whole family? Or just challenge yourself on a hike? You should check out the South Shore Quest!

The South Shore Quest is an annual challenge to “encourage exploration of the outdoors through the use of CLUE-directed walks through local public lands and parks”. The organization was formed in 1998 and has been delivering fun ever since. 

Update: Historically, the quest books have been for sale for $5 at local retailers. Given the pandemic, they are posting the book for free online but asking for donations via this link. We love their enthusiasm and dedication to the cause. Consider donating via this link.

[siteorigin_widget class=”SiteOrigin_Widget_Image_Widget”][/siteorigin_widget]

The Idea

Questing is an ideal activity for small groups and families, as well as individuals. By turning a walk into a treasure hunt, children often race ahead of their parents instead of lagging behind

 

How it works:

For a given Quest, participants use the map and directions found in this booklet to follow hidden CLUES to a treasure box. The box contains a small guest book, a stamp pad, a rubber stamp, and answers to questions asked by curious “Questers”. Once the box is found, participants stamp the back pages of this booklet (as proof of accomplishment), and each person signs and stamps the guest book to record having finished the Quest.

Getting started:

  1. Download the Quest book from South Shore Quest
  2. Pick a trail to get started on. You can find all the trail maps and information here on South Shore Trails. 
  3. Pack a snack and enjoy the adventure.

South Shore Quest 2020 Trails

Here is the list of trails that are included in the South Shore Quest!

[wpdatatable id=23]
Pandemic Updates:
  • All Quests will be boxless until further notice to help reduce the risk of contagion.  The clue phrase will work as proof of completion if working towards a patch.
  • Please continue to practice social distancing by Questing with just your immediate family.  It’s difficult to space properly on narrow trails with large groups.
  • Before heading out on a Quest check to be sure the property the Quest is located on is currently open to the public.  We will update our website under Trail Updates as we hear of closures but can not guarantee our site will be up to date in this ever changing landscape.
  • Fairies are practicing social distancing as well.  Please do not open or handle the Fairy doors on any of the Quests.

Want to learn more?

South Shore Quest website

4 sample quests online to try 

Code of Ethics

Weir River Watershed Association

Volunteer with South Shore Quest

FAQ for South Shore Quest

Source Credit: We’ve used a lot of South Shore Quest’s descriptions in this post. We like to use their own words to describe the South Shore Quest so we make sure we are reflecting their vision correctly. 

Ellis Estate / Scituate

[siteorigin_widget class=”SiteOrigin_Widget_Image_Widget”][/siteorigin_widget]

LOCATION:

Country Way

Scituate, MA

STROLLER SCORE: C

LINKS:

Ellis Estate Trail Map

[siteorigin_widget class=”SiteOrigin_Widget_GoogleMap_Widget”][/siteorigin_widget]

Widow’s Walk / Scituate

[siteorigin_widget class=”SiteOrigin_Widget_Image_Widget”][/siteorigin_widget]

Widow’s Walk is one of the most popular walking areas in the town of Scituate. Visitors can’t wait for golfing season to be over to explore the property. The site is most frequently visited by walkers with dogs. The large property is also well known with bird watchers. Visitors frequently post to town social media about various wildlife sightings like coyote, fox, and different birds of prey. 

As a commitment to the environment Widow’s Walk became a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary course in 2002.  This program ensures a commitment to the environment by establishing avian nesting box programs, providing habitats for numerous other species of animals, and using integrated pest management to apply the least amount of water, pesticides and fertilizer as possible. (source)

Visitor Reminders:

  • follow town leash laws. keep dogs on a leash at all times.
  • pick up dog waste

Property History

Built on the site of an abandoned 100-acre gravel quarry formerly owned and operated by the Boston Sand & Gravel Company, the landscape had been altered and scared by many years of gravel mining—which provided among its many destinations the gravel used in the construction of both the Southeast Expressway and the runway expansion at Logan International Airport. 
Boston Sand and Gravel ScituateThe excavation of sand and gravel here over the years was so great, in fact, that Scituate, Massachusetts, was once ranked as the #1 port of export in the world, based on tonage. The “pits” as it was known, presented the Town of Scituate with a unique opportunity to transform this ecologically impoverished eyesore and public nuisance into an aesthetically pleasing, 18-hold public golf course, while maintaining and protecting its uncommon habitat and wildlife.  (source)

[siteorigin_widget class=”SiteOrigin_Widget_Image_Widget”][/siteorigin_widget]

LOCATION:

Driftway

Scituate, MA

STROLLER SCORE: 2

LINKS:

Widow’s Walk – Official Website

Widow’s Walk – Town Page 

Course Environment Specs

[siteorigin_widget class=”SiteOrigin_Widget_GoogleMap_Widget”][/siteorigin_widget]

[envira-gallery id=”8095″]

Hubbell / Scituate

[siteorigin_widget class=”SiteOrigin_Widget_Image_Widget”][/siteorigin_widget]

The Hubbell Trail is located on about 40 acres of land in the North Scituate area of Scituate. While this area is well known for marsh and ocean views, the wooded landscape of the Hubbell preserve is a fresh perspective. The trail is relatively new as compared to other South Shore trails.

The Hubbell preserve was initially started in the 1960s with a donation by Dick Hubbell and continued in recent years with an additional 16 acres. In 2016, the initial trail work was initiated by XX as part of an Eagle Scout project. Eagle Scout projects are a great way to enhance the utilization of town resources . The nearby Minot Beach Kayak ramp is another great example.

The trail provides a great resource for the Minot and North Scituate neighborhood. There is no official parking lot but visitors can park along Indian Trail right at the trailhead. The trail is not suitable for strollers and young children should be very cautious on rocky trail and granite ledges. 

Don’t forget to enjoy the log cabin style benches along the trail… they might be the best part!

TRAILS

There is one main trail in the Hubbell preserve but with three colors of trail markers. The primary trail starts on Indian Trail and works its way into the forest. 

The trail is wide but with uneven, rocky terrain. Additionally, it is quite rocky with granite boulders being incredibly prevalent. 

Trail markers: 

  • white – main trail
  • yellow – small loop off the main trail
  • blue – 2nd portion of the main trail
[siteorigin_widget class=”SiteOrigin_Widget_Image_Widget”][/siteorigin_widget]

LOCATION:

Indian Trail

Scituate, MA

street parking across from 128 Indian Trail

STROLLER SCORE: C

LINKS:

2018 Map

Scituate CPC Page

Eagle Scout Project

[siteorigin_widget class=”SiteOrigin_Widget_GoogleMap_Widget”][/siteorigin_widget]

3rd Cliff aka “The Spit” / Scituate

[siteorigin_widget class=”SiteOrigin_Widget_Image_Widget”][/siteorigin_widget]

Why to visit:

The boardwalk to the Spit is one of the most photographed views in Scituate after the Lighthouse – or that is what social media would lead us to think. The walk out to the beach from Third Cliff is fairly short but incredibly beautiful. Regardless of the weather or season, the marsh and boardwalk are very picturesque. 

While we think this spot is beautiful all year long, you’ll find the Spit Boardwalk most picturesque during the golden photography hours (before mid-morning or late afternoon). Additionally, parts of the boardwalk might be flooded depending on the tide. 

Caution: There is no legal parking option located directly near the trail entrance. The closest public town parking option is about 1.4 miles away at the AJ Memorial Trail.

 

Trail Details:

The boardwalk/trail is under 1/2 mile long and runs from the road down an unpaved path between two houses. There are a few steps down from the dirt path to the boardwalk. The boardwalk is generally in great condition and crosses a few streams that run through the marsh. At the end of the boardwalk, the path transitions to the beach!

How to find it:
no legal parking options
Point Place
Scituate, MA

Stroller Rating: C

board walk is stroller friendly, but there are stairs leading to it

[siteorigin_widget class=”SiteOrigin_Widget_GoogleMap_Widget”][/siteorigin_widget]

Driftway Old Colony Rail Bed Trail / Scituate

[siteorigin_widget class=”SiteOrigin_Widget_Image_Widget”][/siteorigin_widget]

Why to visit:

One of the most picturesque trails in Scituate is the smallest. The old rail trail can be found along the marsh in Scituate’s Driftway area.

The Driftway area of Scituate includes some beautiful marsh views. Despite being located near a busy road, you’ll feel like you were transported to a place far more remote. The AJ Memorial trail is another great option located just down the road. If you only have 15 minutes and just need some fresh air, this rail trail is perfect for you. 

Enjoy your time on this historically relevant town trail!

 

Trail Details:

The trail is just under 1/2 mile long and runs from the small parking lot into the marsh and North River. The environment is perfectly suited for families with little kids to stretch their legs or even strollers. Since this is a town trail, pets are also welcome provided they are on a leash.

It will be obviously when you’ve reached the end of the passable trail but you’ll be able to see very clearly where the trail used to travel. At a low tide, it could be tempting to try and cross the marsh river but it is not advisable given deep marsh mud and the quick turnaround on the tide. 

How to find it:
New Driveway Road
Scituate, MA

4 car parking lot located next to Dunkin Donuts

Stroller Rating: 2

[siteorigin_widget class=”SiteOrigin_Widget_GoogleMap_Widget”][/siteorigin_widget]

Minot Kayak Ramp / Scituate

Minot Kayak Ramp Scituate

The Minot Kayak Ramp is a great access point for those looking to explore the North Scituate marshes, Bassing Beach or Cohasset Harbor area. The ramp was formally constructed as part of an Eagle Scout project in 2015-2016 by a Scituate resident. The project went through the formal town processes and has been an incredibly popular kayak ramp ever since. You are almost guaranteed to see another person out of the marsh during your visit – but don’t worry, it’s not too crowded.

In the map below, we’ve highlighted a route that will take you to Cohasset’s Bassing Beach. All you have to do is follow the main path of the marsh and you’ll make it there in just over 1 mile. Bassing Beach is a beautifully quiet spot to take a rest before turning around – or continuing your adventure. Maybe you are even smart enough to pack a picnic lunch.

Important Information:

  • Check out the informational sign! There is a great nautical map of the area that will help you understand water depth and different marsh passages. Friendly hint? One side of the sign is the map, the other side covers wildlife that you could expect to see.
  • Always practice good judgement and wear a life jacket. Safety is really important, so please be prepared.

LOCATION:

Bailey’s Causeway

Scituate, MA

LINKS:

Things We Recommend:

[amazon_link asins=’B00EEZ29AQ,B00LBK7OSY,B007UU6JI0,B00FPQWWLE,B014D4SEV0,B00WFMQNL6′ template=’ProductGrid-New’ store=’wha05e-20′ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’45ac96f0-78b2-11e7-996d-63019929d1f4′]

 

AJ Mceachern Memorial Trail / Scituate

[siteorigin_widget class=”SiteOrigin_Widget_Image_Widget”][/siteorigin_widget]

AJ McEachern Memorial Trail is a wonderful spot located on the marsh in Scituate. It is perfect for all ages and offers some of the most beautiful and unique views of Scituate’s Landscape. This particular spot is most popular with dog owners, kayakers, and photographers. The parking lot provides the perfect place to launch kayaks on the North River. Even if you aren’t interested in a walk, the piers and benches provide a great place to just watch the sunset or enjoy your coffee. You can see Scituate’s history through old pier pilings that protrude from the water.

TRAILS:

The trails are very well maintained, level, and wide in most parts.While the trail network is not officially mapped, you will have no problem getting around. While there are a few off-shoot trails, it is pretty much one trail out to the point (out and back) with a few small loops here and there. I most recently visited after a snowfall and discovered a few other unofficial trails based on footprints. Without any snow on the ground, these small trails beautifully blend into the scenery.

Stroller wise? This trail is very flat and easy to access with the exception of one small little hill. I still give it a “5” because this is truly a tiny hiccup and the rest of the system is perfectly easy to access. You can even go around this one spot and still enjoy the site.

POINTS OF INTEREST:

There are so many unique little spots at this location – which is why it is perfect for so many types of people.

  • Photographers will especially love the piers and old pier pilings located near the parking lot.
  • There is a small little walkway that overlooks the marsh not too far into the trails.
  • The furthest point of the trail leads to a big open marsh area. Once you get here, you can get a great perspective of the coast line. It is easy to see Third Cliff, the Spit, and bits of Marshfield.

 

[siteorigin_widget class=”SiteOrigin_Widget_Image_Widget”][/siteorigin_widget]

LOCATION:

Parking can be found either in the town lot located next to the water or across the street at Widows Walk Golf Course

Scituate, MA

STROLLER SCORE: 2

LINKS:

2018 Trail Map

Scituate Mariner Article

[siteorigin_widget class=”SiteOrigin_Widget_GoogleMap_Widget”][/siteorigin_widget]

Bates Lane Trails / Scituate

[siteorigin_widget class=”SiteOrigin_Widget_Image_Widget”][/siteorigin_widget]

Why to visit:
The Bates Lane network of trails is a hidden treasure in Scituate. I’m embarrassed that I did not know it existed until recently. Each of the 6 trails is unique and worth the time spent on them! 

What you should know:
​​This was my first time visiting the Bates Lane trails. I find many of my trails by seeing the parking lots as I’m driving by – there is no real parking lot for these trails which is why I never found them before. I think the best place to park is at the Mt Hope Church. This provides for a great entry via the Litchfield Trail. If you happen to find parking near Bates Lane that would also be great.

I spent 3 miles exploring all these trails and found them all to be a bit different – so I’ll try to call out some of the differences below. After looking at the map, I had my heart set on getting to the brook at the end of the properties. It was absolutely worth it. There were so many great moments along the way too. So many stone walls criss-crossing the forest accompanied with gigantic tall trees. In all of that natural beauty, the trails are incredibly well maintained and marked. There is usually a moment in every trail where you are not quite sure where you are – that will not happen. I think nearly every map has a “you are here” spot – and there are maps at nearly all the intersections.

[siteorigin_widget class=”SiteOrigin_Widget_Image_Widget”][/siteorigin_widget]
  • Litchfield Trail – Primary entry point. Largely even terrain but some sections have big tree roots and medium sized rocks in the path. 
  • Horse Trail – More narrow path – but with a lot of smaller trees close by. Feels like a hidden wonderland.
  • Bates Lane – Big wide path. Perfect for strollers and groups of friends. 
  • Maxwell Trail – Definitely not feasible for strollers – but absolutely worth the work. It’s not a very challenging trail just narrow and uneven at times. Incredibly picturesque as you get closer and closer to the brook.
  • Carl Pipes Trail – Largely very even and approachable.

Where:
Corner of Cedar St & Clapp St
Scituate, MA

Stroller Rating:
– Litchfield = 1
– Horse = 1
– Bates = 1
– Maxwell = C
– Carl Pipes = 2

Related Links:
2018 Map
2007 Map​

[siteorigin_widget class=”SiteOrigin_Widget_GoogleMap_Widget”][/siteorigin_widget]