There are so many beautiful places to hike in Massachusetts, and quite a few of them are soaked in the unique history of this state. Bumpkin Island in the Hingham Bay area of Boston Harbor is just such a place, and it offers everything from gorgeous sea views to explorable ruins.
Bumpkin Island is an enigmatic little island off the coast of Hingham in Boston Harbor. It’s not a large island but offers plenty of interesting features, including trails, a pier, and plenty of history. In fact, it’s one of the coolest spots to hike in Eastern Massachusetts.
Bumpkin Island has a long and fascinating history. There is evidence that the first native peoples of Massachusetts made it to the island and fished in the area. Tangible remnants of this early habitation are lost, but there are still ruins standing that tell the story of some of the islands early residents around the turn of the century. Best of all, you can explore these ruins!
The island was once the site of a summer hospital for children with physical disabilities. Built in 1902, the remains of this hospital are still standing, despite being burned down in 1945. In fact, the facility was also used by the U.S. Navy as a hospital for polio patients during World War II. Since 1996, the ruins of and trails around the old hospital have been part of the Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area.
To enjoy a hike to the ruins, head to Bumpkin Island via a shuttle boat to and from Georges Island on weekends and summer weekdays. You can catch the ferry to Georges Island in Boston and Quincy. The fact that a trip to this island requires two ferries may seem like a pain, but it actually ensures that Bumpkin Island is quieter and more peaceful than other Boston Harbor Islands.
This stunning vista looks as peaceful as can be, and we can't wait to visit this summer!
To find out more about visiting Bumpkin Island and hiking to the hospital ruins, click here. Bumpkin Island is open from 9 a.m. to sunset. There are plenty of campsites, picnic areas, and even wild berries to pick, so plan on spending all day in the area if you like! For more beautiful natural spaces to explore in Massachusetts, click here.
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