Norris Reservation Loop

This easy route begins at the parking area on Dover Street in Norwell, MA, and explores forest, wetlands, and riverside terrain managed by The Trustees of Reservations. From the trailhead, head south on Eleanor’s Trail, which gradually becomes River Loop Trail as it continues into the pine and oak forest. Stay on River Loop Trail, then turn right onto Gordon Pond Trail to begin a brief loop around the shoreline. The trail passes through wetland habitat and skirts the edge of Gordon Pond, where conditions can be muddy after rain. After circling the pond, reconnect with River Loop Trail and turn right. Continue through salt marsh habitat with views of the tidal North River. A short distance later, reach a junction with McMullen Trail—stay right here to complete the loop back toward the trailhead. Along the way, watch for glacial erratics, a small historic mill pond, and a scenic boat house overlooking the river. Open year-round from dawn to dusk, this route offers a peaceful walk through diverse coastal ecosystems with gentle terrain and low elevation gain.