Teens

While just about everybody on the North Shore has probably been to Crane Beach, the dunes of Castle Neck are a much less explored world unto themselves. Offering one of the most accessible dune ecosystems north of Cape Cod, Castle Neck has over six miles of trails, traversing the dunes, maritime scrub forest, and beautiful beaches on both the Ipswich Bay and Essex/Castle Neck River estuary sides of the peninsula. These trails take you through Pitch Pine forests, up huge dunes offering stunning views of Choate Island, and by the varied landscapes of Castle Neck, including naturally occurring cranberry bogs.

You’ll feel better about that Thanksgiving indulgence if you come join us for a hike through the beautiful Harold Parker State Forest! We will be hiking about 2 miles on moderate trails. Wear clothing for hiking; bring rain gear as appropriate. ouring rain, snow, or ice cancels.  Best for children ages 8 and up. Meet at 305 Middleton Road, North Andover, MA

This free, 2-hour class for high school students and adults is taught by John Kotch, a black belt instructor in Isshin-Ryu Karate The class is designed for women to learn how to protect themselves when faced with uncomfortable situations and how to avoid them in the first place. The instruction will include techniques used in Isshin-Ryu karate (known as a street, self-defense style based upon survival tactics) as well as those utilized by various martial arts styles, military and law enforcement personnel. The following will be covered: improving self-awareness; hand and foot techniques; hold-breaks, ground techniques and basic weapons defense.

Learn about the moon’s cycle and its importance to people over the centuries. This is a rare glimpse of the park at night. There will be a short walk that is fully accessible.