Whitney and Thayer Woods

Great waking trails of varying lengths! Main trails are easily walkable and were mostly clear of debris even only a week after a big storm. However, many people allow their dogs to walk off leash despite posted signs against it, so if your dog is other dog aggressive or reactive, I would not recommend taking the risk since in an hour walk I saw 4 dogs off leash. Also trails have maps at every intersection with another path so you know know where you are along the walk.
Last thing is there was one spot where the wetland had flooded the trail but it was still walkable as long as you don't mind getting your shoes wet, I have included a photo of this location for reference.

The Whitney and Thayer woods are a peaceful oasis of 800 acres of quiet woodland and meadow in Hingham and Cohasset. Most of the property is shaded woodland with seasonal streams and ponds, glimpses of old stone walls reflecting the historical agricultural heritage and dotted with large glacial boulders.

There is an extensive trail network, consisting of:

a) three main carriage road loops (marked on the trail map in blue, yellow and red). These carriage roads were built in the early 20th century when carriage riding was popular (similar to the more famous carriage roads in Arcadia) and remain broad, open easy walking or biking trails.

b) a network of side trails that are narrower and offer more challenge for the casual hiker.

Wildlife: you can see on occasion deer, turkeys, coyotes, turtles, frogs, snakes and other wildlife, but on most days you will only come across some of the bird life. Flies and mosquitos are prevalent Jun-Sep so insect repellent is essential.

Dogs: are welcome on leash and off leash, subject to the normal expectation of proper behavior and waste collection.

Access: there are a number of free car parks to access the woods:

1. At the top of Turkey Hill Lane in Hingham; this is the closest car park if coming from Route 3 / Boston.
2. Route 3A Hingham. If coming from Hingham the entrance to this car park is on the right, just before you reach the Cohasset town line. It is easy to miss, so if you reach the Cohasset sign you will need to turn around.
3. Route 3A / Cohasset MBTA station. There are a good number of dedicated free parking spots on the right as you enter the MBTA station from 3A (4 hour limit). Once parked, cross 3A at the light and go down the Spur trail for 0.5 miles. If coming by public transport, this is the easiest station to come to.
4. Route 3A / Sohier St Cohasset. A large car park a few yards beyond the intersection of Sohier St and 3A.

Beautiful park to trail run and hike. Gentle rolling hills with well marked trails. Bike path through the woods great for family bike ride.

Awesome trails. Great companion to Wampatuck.

Great trails that are well marked with maps at every intersection. The overlapping loop trails are great so you can do long or short hikes from the same trailhead.

There is a short section near the Cohasset trailhead that is cordoned off on the trail (private property) that is not reflected on the map but it's pretty easy to follow a different trail back to the trailhead.

Fairly busy on nice days.

This was a very amazing spot - but be warned! Part of the blue and yellow trails are no longer passable bc of private property!!!! The map and multiple signage suggests walking the trail that cuts through the property is passable - to make a loop back to parking but there are huge signs stating that it is no longer an option. It was disappointing bc we have a toddler with us - and had to walk back further. Would have been nice to know this before we headed in that direction! Espically since we were so close to our vehicle and were unable to continue the loop.

Perfect low intensity hiking for the family (1, 2, to 5 miles). We've been coming here for a while, incl. during the pandemic and will be back in the winter too. Wish that dog owners would keep dogs on a leash and pick up dog poop. Overall lovely hikes.

Great place for an easy hike/walk through some well marked trails. Nothing too strenuous and just the right size for a leisurely walkabout.

This is a great place to walk or hike. Miles of walking paths and hiking trails that are well-maintained. Even when the parking lot is crowded you will not see many others during your hike.

Great trail with lots of options. Fun for the kid with all the rocks to climb on. Been going here for years

Great trail!

Great place to take a walk

I hike here frequently. Very safe and scenic. Well marked trails (get a wompatuck map)

Lots of trail length options, beautiful woodland. One of our favorite places for family nature walks.

we loved this walk, it was lovely! and even more importantly, my doggie Banny had a great time so, thanks!

Lovely place to take walks and enjoy nature

It is beautiful here and so peaceful! It's a lovely place to go to if you might be feeling down or even stressed!

Amazing park! Loved running and hiking here!

Love this place, such a nice walk. So nice to go back there after so long

It's a very pretty walk with lots of wildlife and you will always have a nice time.