A state park at the northern tip of Cape Ann on the site of the historic Babson Farm granite quarry, with easy walking trails, tidal pools, a quarry-edge scenic overlook, and views to New Hampshire and Maine. The Trustees of Reservations own the adjacent Halibut Point Reservation, also open to the public and effectively contiguous with the state park.
What to expect
Parking
Free lot $5/vehicle MA plates, $10/vehicle out-of-state (Memorial Day-Labor Day); nominal fee May-October; free for The Trustees members
Trails
About 2.5 miles of trails; a 1.7-mile loop near the quarry is generally easy, roughly 35-40 minutes. Trail surface is a mix of gravel path and exposed granite…
Dogs
Dogs must be leashed at all times.
Hours
Memorial Day-Labor Day: 8:00am-8:00pm daily. Rest of year: sunrise to sunset.
Accessibility
Most of the park and visitor center are described as universally accessible, though some paths are loose gravel that can be difficult for wheelchairs.
Birdwatching
Allowed year-round, especially strong during migration
Managed by
MA Dept. of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), in cooperation with The Trustees of Reservations for the adjacent Reservation
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On site
Info kiosk
Visitor center with exhibits on the granite industry and natural/geologic history.
Picnic area
Picnic areas within the park.
Common questions
Is Halibut Point State Park open today?
Halibut Point State Park is a public park in Rockport, MA. Posted hours: Memorial Day-Labor Day: 8:00am-8:00pm daily. Rest of year: sunrise to sunset..
Is there a fee to visit Halibut Point State Park?
Walking in is free; parking in the lot costs $5 for Massachusetts-plated vehicles and $10 for out-of-state, Memorial Day through Labor Day, with a nominal fee the rest of May-October. Trustees members park free.
Are dogs allowed at Halibut Point?
Yes, on a leash at all times.
Where do I park at Halibut Point State Park?
Free lot ($5/vehicle MA plates, $10/vehicle out-of-state (Memorial Day-Labor Day); nominal fee May-October; free for The Trustees members).
Is there an entry fee at Halibut Point State Park?
No, entry is free.
Can I bring my dog to Halibut Point State Park?
Dogs must be leashed at all times.
Is Halibut Point State Park wheelchair accessible?
Most of the park and visitor center are described as universally accessible, though some paths are loose gravel that can be difficult for wheelchairs.
What rules should I know at Halibut Point State Park?
Quarry has steep, unfenced drops in places; granite ledge can be slippery when wet. No overnight camping or fires.