A 531-acre Trustees of Reservations property on a 168-foot coastal hill overlooking the Great Marsh and Plum Island, with views reaching New Hampshire's Isle of Shoals. About 3 miles of trails cross salt marsh, second-growth forest, and open ridge, including the moderate Ridge Trail and the shorter, family-friendly River Trail. It is also a link in the regional Bay Circuit Trail.
What to expect
Parking
Free lot Free · unconfirmed
Trails
About 3 miles of trails: Ridge Trail (moderate, panoramic views) and River Trail (short, family-friendly, marsh/oak forest loop). Unpaved, natural surface.
Dogs
Leash required April 1 - August 15; off-leash permitted (dog must remain under control) the rest of the year. Avoid sensitive salt marsh and grassland habitat at all times.
Allowed now · ban starts April 1Hours
Daily, sunrise to sunset.
Birdwatching
Allowed year-round
Managed by
The Trustees of Reservations
978-526-8687 · WebsiteWhat's here
On site
Info kiosk
Free printed trail maps at parking bulletin board.
Not here
No drinking water
Not mentioned as available; treated as likely absent.
Common questions
How long are the trails at Old Town Hill?
About 3 miles total. The Ridge Trail is moderate with panoramic views; the River Trail is a shorter, family-friendly loop through marsh and oak forest.
Are dogs allowed off-leash?
Yes, outside April 1 to August 15, as long as the dog stays under control and away from sensitive salt marsh and grassland habitat. Leash is required in that spring/summer window.
On the left side of Newman Road, about 0.5 miles from Route 1A. The lot holds about 10 vehicles, so it can fill up during peak times.
No, admission is free and no membership is required.
Limited seasonal bow hunting is allowed in Trustees-managed areas Oct 1-Dec 31 (excluding Sundays); MassWildlife easement portions require separate written permission.
Where do I park at Old Town Hill Reservation?
Free lot (Free).
Is there an entry fee at Old Town Hill Reservation?
No, entry is free.
Can I bring my dog to Old Town Hill Reservation?
Leash required April 1 - August 15; off-leash permitted (dog must remain under control) the rest of the year. Avoid sensitive salt marsh and grassland habitat at all times.
What rules should I know at Old Town Hill Reservation?
Hikers should be aware of active bow hunting during the fall season (Oct 1-Dec 31 window); hunting signage posted with safety requirements. Commercial portrait photography requires a Contributing Level Membership or specific permission.