Ravenswood Park offers 600 acres for solitude and quiet contemplation, a testament to its founder’s conservationist philosophy. Nineteenth-century businessman and philanthropist Samuel Sawyer purchased woodlots, old pastures, and a swamp near his home on Freshwater Cove, and upon his death left more than 26 parcels to be turned into a park named Ravenswood, after the castle in Sir Walter Scott’s The Bride of Lammermoor. Whether you prefer to surround yourself with snow-covered hemlocks, experience spring emerging in a burst of color and aroma, or escape the summer heat, you’ll find refuge here.

Ten miles of woodland paths and trails meander through the park, providing plenty of room to picnic, bird watch, walk, cross-country ski, and simply appreciate the outdoors. Wander the child-friendly, two-mile Ledge Hill Trail among the magical-looking, fern-covered boulders, or trek to the overlook of Gloucester Harbor.

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