The best walks and hikes around White Island Shores
4.5
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Hiking around White Island Shores offers a tranquil coastal experience within Plymouth County, Massachusetts. The region is characterized by its setting along White Island Pond, expansive beaches, and state forests, including Myles Standish State Forest. Hikers can explore a variety of natural features, from pine and oak woodlands to numerous kettle ponds and waterways. This diverse landscape provides a range of environments for outdoor activities.
Best hiking trails around White Island Shores
- The most popular hiking route is Betsy's Trail…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
4
hikers
5.86km
01:32
40m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
2.21km
00:33
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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11.7km
03:02
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.04km
00:16
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.18km
00:36
40m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around White Island Shores
Tips from the Community
The views of the pond are spectacular from this road. Halfway Pond, a 232-acre warm water pond nestled in Plymouth, Massachusetts, sits between Myles Standish State Forest and Long Pond. Located west of Round Pond, southwest of Gallows Pond, and north of Fawn Pond and White Island Pond, it boasts an average depth of nine feet and a maximum depth of 13 feet. Fed by groundwater springs, it drains into the Agawam River. Halfway Pond Island, positioned at the pond's center, is designated a research natural area under The Nature Conservancy in Massachusetts' management.
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The railroad bridge is a great curiosity as it lifts up and down to allow boat traffic to pass underneath. A wonderful thing to see if you time your ride right and get to see it move.
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Gallows Pond is a kettle pond, meaning that it was formed by retreating glaciers thousands of years ago. Due to its clear, cool waters, it is a popular swimming, sun bathing, fishing, and boating spot in the summer months.
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Halfway Pond is not only a picturesque New England freshwater pond, but it also provides habitat for the federally endangered northern red-bellied cooter, a rare freshwater turtle species. Because the water is so clean, six mussel species live in Halfway Pond, two of which are quite rare. Additionally, the shores of the pond offer excellent opportunities for spotting bald eagles. You can enjoy many different seasonal activities such as canoeing and kayaking in the summer, hiking in the fall, snowshoeing in the winter, or searching for wildflowers in the spring.
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College Pond is one of the many lakes in Myles Standish State Forest. The 53-acre (21 ha) pond has a swimming beach and picnic area on its north shore. It has an average depth of 10 feet (3 m) and is as deep as 24 feet (7.3 m) in places.
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A wonderful trail through Myles Standish State Forest. For the past 30 years, it's been maintained by Bob Bentley, a founding member of Friends of Myles Standish State Forest. The trail leads through wild flower meadows and past picturesque ponds. The trail surface is a mix of hard-packed soil, sand and rooty, rocky paths. This is a popular trail with hikers and MTBs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of hiking trails can I expect around White Island Shores?
Hiking around White Island Shores offers a diverse experience, primarily characterized by pine and oak forests, numerous kettle ponds, and coastal areas. You'll find trails ranging from easy strolls to moderate paths, often leading through tranquil woodlands and alongside scenic waterways like White Island Pond.
How many hiking trails are available in the White Island Shores area?
There are over 20 hiking routes available around White Island Shores, catering to various skill levels. The komoot community has mapped 15 easy trails, 6 moderate trails, and 1 difficult trail, ensuring options for everyone from beginners to more experienced hikers.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options in White Island Shores?
Yes, many trails in the area are suitable for families. For an easy and relatively short walk, consider the Beach Trail. Another great option is Gallows Pond Preserve, which offers pleasant pond views and is typically completed in under an hour.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails around White Island Shores?
Many trails in the White Island Shores area are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific regulations for each park or preserve. Myles Standish State Forest, a prominent hiking area nearby, generally welcomes dogs on leash. A good trail to explore with your dog is Betsy's Trail, which winds through varied woodland.
What natural attractions or landmarks can I see while hiking here?
The region is rich in natural beauty. You can explore the extensive pine and oak forests of Myles Standish State Forest. Many trails lead to picturesque kettle ponds such as Charge Pond and East Head Pond. The Cape Cod Canal Bikeway also offers scenic views of the canal and its boat traffic.
Are there any circular hiking routes in the area?
Yes, there are several circular routes. A popular moderate option is the College Pond, New Long Pond, and Three Cornered Pond Loop. This 7.2-mile path takes you through forests and connects multiple kettle ponds, offering a comprehensive experience of the local landscape.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in White Island Shores?
White Island Shores offers beautiful hiking experiences year-round. The changing seasons bring different charms; spring and fall are particularly scenic with vibrant foliage or blooming wildflowers. Summer is ideal for combining hikes with water activities at the ponds, while winter offers tranquil, snow-dusted landscapes.
Where can I find parking for hiking trails?
Many trailheads, especially within Myles Standish State Forest, offer designated parking areas. For example, trails around College Pond or Charge Pond typically have parking available. It's advisable to check specific trail information on komoot for details on parking at your chosen starting point.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in White Island Shores?
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experience in White Island Shores, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 7 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil woodland settings, the beauty of the numerous kettle ponds, and the variety of easy to moderate trails that make the area accessible to many.
Are there any long-distance hiking trails or multi-hour routes?
While many trails are shorter, you can combine sections or explore longer loops for multi-hour hikes. The College Pond, New Long Pond, and Three Cornered Pond Loop is a moderate 7.2-mile route that takes approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes, offering a good option for a longer outing.
Is public transport available to reach hiking areas in White Island Shores?
Public transport options directly to specific trailheads in White Island Shores are limited. It is generally recommended to have a car to access the various hiking areas, especially those within Myles Standish State Forest, to ensure flexibility and convenience.
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