Northshore Magazine

Northshore January/February 2019

Northshore magazine showcases the best that the North Shore of Boston, MA has to offer.

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NORTHSHOREMAG.COM 52 JANUARY + FEBRUARY 2019 / F A C E S + P L A C E S / through sand dunes and along the waterfront, letting you bask in the crowd-free serenity. "You really feel like you have the place to yourself," Marotta says. "You feel you're exploring a natural setting rather than a crowded beach." e beach is also an ideal place to catch a glimpse of a snowy owl—some have already been spotted on the beach this year. FOR A QUICK STROLL Stavros Reservation, Essex With just one three-quarter-mile trail, this property is the ideal destination when you want to enjoy a beautiful winter walk without spending too much time in the elements. e loop path makes an easy ascent up a coastal drumlin, offering sweeping views of Ipswich's Crane Beach to the north and Rockport's Hali- but Point to the east. On the return, the trail edges scenic salt marshes. "You can get out and get some fresh air and not feel like you have to overpack or worry about getting lost," Marotta says. FOR A WOODLAND WANDER Ravenswood Park, Gloucester To enjoy the beauty of a snow-covered wood, you can't do better than Ravenswood. Ten miles of trails take you under hemlocks, mag- nolias, and pine trees, enveloping visitors in the natural world. Wintry light filters through the branches, and drifting snowflakes sparkle in the air with every breeze. Novice winter hikers can keep to the wide and gentle Old Salem Road path, a former carriage road. If you're seeking a more challenging hike, try the boulder-studded Ledge Hill Trail. No matter which route you choose, be aware that Ravenswood is very dog friendly, so your walk is likely to include some cavorting canines. FOR SOME WILDLIFE MAGIC Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary, Topsfield If there is anywhere you can enjoy a sense of cold-weather enchantment, it is this Audu- bon property in Topsfield. In total, 12 miles of easy, well-maintained trails twist through the sanctuary, allowing for ample exploration. Snow-dusted stone walls and bridges, wet- land boardwalks, and even a rocky grotto to investigate all create a unique sense of winter wonderment. Sue Hamel of Haverhill and her two daughters like to bring birdseed when they visit the sanctuary and allow their feathered friends to enjoy a snack right from the palms of their hands. "It is a magical experience," Hamel says. STAY WARM The shorts and t-shirts you wear on the trails in the summer just aren't going to cut it when the New England winter kicks in, but you may not be sure what is best for cold-weather hiking. So we asked The Trustees' Peter Marotta, an experienced and enthusiastic winter hiker, for some guidance on how to stay warm and comfortable on the trails no matter the weather. "I hiked last year in 10-degree weather, but I totally enjoyed it because I had the right gear," he says. Here's how: + START AT THE BOTTOM: Keeping your feet dry and happy is the most important factor, so waterproof boots and wool socks are essential, Marotta says. + GET A GRIP: If you expect ice on the trail, consider a set of traction devices you can slip on over your shoes to get a better grip on slippery surfaces. Yaktrax and MICROspikes are two notable brands. "They are a total game changer," Marotta says. + LAYER IT ON: Instead of reaching for your heaviest, bulkiest coat, try several thinner layers so you can adjust your warmth level as you proceed. Marotta suggests a thin thermal base layer, a wool sweater, and a down vest under your jacket. And don't forget a backpack to hold any layers you remove. + HANDS AND HEAD: When the weather moves from chilly to frigid, opt for mittens instead of gloves, Marotta recommends. And don't grab just any hat— choose a wool hat if possible and consider something with ear flaps to boost your warmth even further. IN THE KNOW PHOTOGRAPHS BY (TOP TO BOTTOM) SHUTTERSTOCK, PAUL MOZELL Top, A snowy owl rests at Crane Beach; Below, Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary in Topsfield

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