NATURE
by Kezia Bacon, NSRWA Community Engagement Manager
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!
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/