Experience life on and around an authentic Viking ship. Vikings are known for their “raiding and trading” but they were also master crafters in wood, metal and fabric arts. Based around our flagship Polaris, visitors will get to see, feel, and hear the sounds of costume, metal working, and wood working. They will get to experience what it was like aboard a small Viking longship and even try their hand at rowing.
Come tour the Cat Cove Marine Laboratory as part of Trails & Sails! The Cat Cove Marine Laboratory is operated by Salem State University to promote the sustainable use of aquatic resources on the North Shore and elsewhere. Massachusetts’ North Shore is historically, culturally and economically linked with the ocean. More recently, the ecological importance of coastal waters has been recognized. Salem State University and its Cat Cove Marine Laboratory acknowledge the traditional, biological and social importance of our coastal waters. Methods to preserve, manage and utilize this treasured resource are developed and disseminated at the Laboratory. Participants in Trails & Sails will tour the Laboratory, learn about its relevance and gain insight into how some of their tax dollars are being spent. The visit is interactive, be prepared to feed fish, shellfish and to handle creepy crawlers!
A meadow with grasses and wildflowers is home to many insects, from bees and butterflies to grasshoppers and crickets. Take a walk to a meadow to see how many different wildflowers you can find, and then take a closer look at insects using nets and collecting jars.
It's nice to have GPS, but do you know how to read a map or use a compass? What happens if you're out on the trail and your GPS malfunctions or the batteries die? Are you instantly lost? Join Mass Audubon for a guided map-and-compass treasure hunt around the sanctuary. Bring your own compass or use one of ours and learn how to find north, orient yourself, count paces, and use the map and compass to find your way. After some basics, we'll hit the trails and use the new skills learned to search for some hidden natural treasures. No experience necessary. This program is a good introduction to orienteering for the whole family.
Join the park interpreter & DCR Bat Research Monitor Amanda Melinchuk for this two part program, starting with a Power Point presentation concerning the threat to bats, how they benefit the eco system & much more! Then take a short walk in the field to see & hear bat activity and at the site of Maudslay’s newly in stalled bat box.
Meet at Campground Nature Center- For ages 6 and up. This is a moderate guided hike to the remnants of the Jenkins family blue soapstone quarry. A great way to learn about the park’s history and resources while getting some exercise.
Meet at Frye Pond Beach - Great family fun for everyone interested in learning the basics of pond fishing in New England. All fishing tackle and bait is provided. Recommend bringing insect repellent, water, sun screen and a camera. Appropriate for children over 6 years old.
Meet at Frye Pond Beach - Fish, frogs, snakes, and salamanders, let’s discover what lives in our tranquil New England ponds! Nets and buckets are provided. This activity can be wet and muddy. Recommend bringing water, insect repellent, sun screen, binoculars and camera. Appropriate for all ages.
Halibut Point State Park is also a granite quarry with a history that goes back billions of years! A rock is not a thing but a drama, it can teach us about the great unifying science and the unique geology of Cape Ann. Rocks can tell us a lot about how the landscape was formed and the geology of Cape Ann tells us great stories, all visible at Halibut Point. Meet at the Visitors Center in the park. For all ages. Rain or shine, pouring rain cancels.
Explore the Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary after hours and join us for a night of camping under the stars. Have an early dinner at home and then come with your family, your tent, and a dessert to share. Join us as we explore the habitats of the elusive owls.
