Hiking and Biking

A handful of excellent land reservations around the South Shore [1] make for great walks—many blessed with spectacular views of the ocean. World’s End (250 Martin’s Ln., Hingham, 781/740-6665, year-round, 8 a.m.–sunset daily, $5 adults, free children), for example, is upwards of 250 acres of rolling hills, wooded paths, and groves—with glimpses of Hingham Harbor and the Boston [2] skyline throughout. Leashed dogs and mountain biking are permitted.

At the smaller Ellisville Harbor State Park (Route 3A, Plymouth, 508/866-2580, year-round) there are 100 acres of well-tended hiking, fishing, and cross-country ski trails.

Small but charming, the Two Mile Farm (Union St., Marshfield, 781/784-0567, year-round) abuts the winding North River—which it has beautiful views of. The park, which allows pets but no bikes, is considered a local gem for bird-watchers.