Nestled in an elbow of the Weweantic River, Birch Island Conservation Area isn’t actually an island. But with river views peeking through the pines in nearly every direction, you could be forgiven for mistaking it for one. This town-owned conservation area is located next to the Coalition’s Horseshoe Mill, creating a network of trails that are popular with hikers in Wareham.

The main trail at Birch Island Conservation Area loops through the property in a wide circle. Altogether, you can spend an hour or more walking the trails along the river’s edge here and at neighboring Horseshoe Mill.