Shipyard Farm in Fairhaven packs a lot of scenic beauty in its trail across working farmland to the shores of Nasketucket Bay. Protected by a conservation restriction held by the Buzzards Bay Coalition, Shipyard Farm is a great destination for active hikers who want to explore Buzzards Bay’s coastal farmland.

It’s easy to drive past this trail on Sconticut Neck Road in Fairhaven. But if you stop and take a peek, you’ll be pleasantly surprised. Acres of working farmland welcome you at the property’s entrance. Beyond the hayfield, you’ll discover a salt marsh on the shores of Nasketucket Bay. We recommend getting here early in the morning to catch a spectacular sunrise across the water.

A walk through Shipyard Farm reveals a transition from farmland to salt marsh. Because of the habitat diversity here, you’ll find a variety of wildlife. Deer and rabbits wander from the forest to the farmland to munch on exposed shrubs. Down at the muddy salt marsh, crabs scuttle across the shore. Overhead, ospreys and gulls soar on the air currents while herons and egrets fish by the marsh’s quiet edge.

Shipyard Farm is owned by the Fairhaven Acushnet Land Preservation Trust  (FALPT), a nonprofit organization that has been working since 1992 to preserve open space and the rural characteristics of Acushnet and Fairhaven.

The trails at Shipyard Farm offer stunning views in return for an easy walk of about a half-hour. With clearly marked trails and coastal scenery, it’s a great place for active hikers to introduce new explorers, including children, to the outdoors.

Starting at the trailhead on Sconticut Neck Road, trek east across the farmland toward the water. In less than 10 minutes, you’ll arrive at the marshy shores of Round Cove. Stop here to soak up the gorgeous views of Nasketucket Bay and West Island.

The trail then heads north, crossing small tidal creeks that feed into Nasketucket Bay. Turn right at the first junction (marked with a double blaze) to journey through the woods, where you’ll catch glimpses of salt marsh, stone walls, and cellar holes along the way. The trail then joins a wider woods road; circle back and return to Shipyard Farm’s fields, or turn right and cross Sconticut Neck Road to explore neighboring Winsegansett Marshes.