David Melby ’60, “Missouri River from Ft. Leavenworth”
On our recent visit to see our children and grandchildren, our oldest daughter Lauri, granddaughter Brynne and I hiked up Sagamore Hill, a protected area that touches the towns of Ipswich, Hamilton, and Essex, MA. Lauri loves to take Dick and me on walks when we visit, usually to Crane’s Beach and Singing Beach near their home in Hamilton. But this was a new spot I’d never seen and it was girls only.
For those unfamiliar with this part of our country, the urban areas are intertwined with forests, marshes and meadows. Narrow winding roads with little margin of error for passing cars are the norm. Trail heads abound that lure hikers, serious mountain bikers, and equestrians, but no motorized vehicles.
The Sagamore Hill hike is in the meadow category and somewhat unique because it offers views of distant horizons.
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Beginning at the wooden bridge
, we followed the trail marked
with crushed clam shells.
Most of the area is bounded by old stone fences originally built to mark property boundaries. Many are centuries old, some pristine, some covered with overgrowth . I would call them a signature feature of this region as they are everywhere from private homes to public spaces.
Along the way were some equestrian jumps, and an abundance of wild mustard plants in bloom. No other wildflowers had shown their colors yet.
As we approached the peak, we could see the Atlantic Ocean.
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Once at the top, we began our trek down. Luckily,we spotted a large coyote in the distance. The chilly, wet, windy day certainly didn’t impede our enjoyment of being together after almost 1 1/2 years, and doing something we all love.
Left, Brynne, Diane, and Hobie
Diane,
It looks like Brynne and Hobie are fun hiking partners! I’m glad you were finally able to see your family again. I love the Massachusetts views; that is an area I have not seen. Nice bit about the stone walls – so typical in New England (now googling Sagamore Hill).