The Trustees of Reservations owns, preserves, and protects a hundred properties – historic homes, farms, museums — and thousands of acres throughout Massachusetts. Beyond that, the Trustees make these beautiful places available to the public for learning and enjoyment.
We are all taking our fun and socializing outdoors these days. The Trustees, in true form, will be hosting moonlight and nighttime hikes in four places in Massachusetts known for their natural beauty: Castle Hill on the Crane Estate in Ipswich, Chestnut Hill Farm in Southborough, Appleton Farms in Hamilton & Ipswich, and the deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum in Lincoln.
Some hikes will be under the full moon in November and December; some emphasize family participation; some are just silly, like a competitive Ugly Sweater Hike. Take a look at the list below and sign up for an inspiring outdoor experience under the night sky.
- Saturday, November 28
- Family Night Hike at Chestnut Hill Farm in Southborough – Moonlight, kids and ‘s’mores.
- Dunes by the Light of the Full Beaver Moon at Castle Hill on the Crane Estate in Ipswich – This moon announces the coming of winter, a time when beavers are active, storing food and repairing their lodges.
Sunday, November 29
- Family Beaver Moon Hike at Castle Hill on the Crane Estate in Ipswich – Still recovering from Thanksgiving feasting? This walk will help.
- Dunes by the Light of the Full Beaver Moon — Castle Hill on the Crane Estate in Ipswich – the dunes and marshes are magical – especially at night.
Monday, November 30
- Full Moon Hike at Appleton Farms in Hamilton & Ipswich – Farm staff serve as your guide
Saturday, December 12
- Animal Tracking Family Night Hike at Chestnut Hill Farm in Southborough — Join a hike led by a ranger and naturalist, and learn to identify signs of wildlife. Then: a campfire and treats for all.
- Ugly Sweater Night Hike at Rocky Woods in Medfield – Who’s got the ugliest sweater of them all? Maybe it’s you.
Monday, December 28
- Dunes by the Light of the Full Cold Moon at Castle Hill on the Crane Estate in Ipswich – Brace for chill and outdoor beauty under the winter full moon.
Tuesday, December 29
- Full Moon Hike at Appleton Farms in Hamilton & Ipswich — Farm staff will be your guide.
- Full Moon Tours of deCordova Sculpture Park in Lincoln – Outdoor sculpture under the night sky. Artistic!
- Dunes by the Light of the Full Cold Moon at Castle Hill on the Crane Estate in Ipswich – this property is enchanting in all seasons and times.