At the edge of New Bedford’s urban North End sits The Sawmill, a 19-acre former industrial lumber yard on the Acushnet River. This Buzzards Bay Coalition-owned public park protects the river’s health and offers local residents of all ages a beautiful place to explore the outdoors here at the Acushnet River Reserve.

Discover what makes the Acushnet River special at The Sawmill, a popular park in Acushnet just steps from the city of New Bedford. Take a walk, go fishing, paddle a canoe upriver, or look for birds and wildlife. Explore inside the Hawes Family Learning Center, where informational exhibits tell the river’s story. Most important, relax and enjoy this natural paradise.

The Sawmill was once home to a large, bustling lumber yard owned by the Acushnet Saw Mills Company. In 2014, the Coalition restored The Sawmill to protect clean water and create a park where everyone can explore the outdoors. Today, The Sawmill is part of the growing Acushnet River Reserve, which also includes LaPalme Farm, Hamlin Crossing, and P.J. Keating Woods. These places protect clean water and preserve important habitats for future generations.
Trails

Embark on a journey along the Acushnet River on the trails at The Sawmill. The main trail is about a half-mile long – perfect for a short jaunt through the woods and by the water. Many parts of the trail are ADA accessible, so explorers of all abilities can enjoy this special place.

As you begin your walk along the main trail, you’ll cross a footbridge over the river. Peer over the bridge to see a nature-like “fishway”: a series of pools and boulders that helps fish migrate upstream each spring.

Across the bridge, you’ll meet a trail junction. Keep walking straight to cross boardwalks through a restored red maple swamp. Or turn left to make your way to the North River Overlook. This peaceful retreat looks out over the river’s quiet waters, where you’ll see ducks and geese float by. Both of these routes eventually connect in a loop through the woods and a meadow.

The AllTrails website has a description and map of a hike at The Sawmill.