This Beautiful Boardwalk Trail In Massachusetts Is The Most Unique Hike Around

This gorgeous boardwalk trail in Massachusetts is unlike any other hike in the state. Extending through the North River Wildlife Sanctuary in Marshfield, this trail will take you through grassy meadows, shady forests, and out over the waters of the North River itself.

Tripadvisor/Sarah R.

The boardwalk trail through the North River Wildlife Sanctuary in Marshfield is truly lovely. It will lead you through some of the area’s most pristine natural surroundings.

Tripadvisor/Sarah R.

You actually have two great options here. One option is to follow the Hannah Eames Brook Trail (connected to the Woodland Loop Trail) to wander down to the banks of the Hannah Eames Brook. The trail is short and sweet and ends in a picturesque wooden boardwalk.

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Another option is to hop on the River Loop Trail. This path runs around a stone wall enclosed grassland and will take you to a gorgeous platform overlooking the North River. This deck area has benches where you can sit here and admire the view or continue on your way.

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Tripadvisor/Sarah R.

Both boardwalk trails here are well-maintained and frequented by beautiful songbirds. The paths wind through oak forests, red maple swamp, and grasslands. Look out for white-tailed deer, gray squirrels, meadow voles, and red-tailed hawks. If you’re lucky, you might even catch sight of a harbor seal sunning itself along the banks of the North River.

Wikimedia Commons/John Phelan

The sanctuary also has a staffed visitors center with a gift shop. It’s a good place to get pointers on what to look out for along the trail. The trail is open daily from dawn to dusk. The visitors center is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

If you can’t get enough of walking on planks, check out this list of the five most scenic boardwalks in Massachusetts.