Ravenswood Park – Gray Beach and Magnolia Pier loop from Coolidge Reservation

If you're looking for a diverse coastal and woodland experience without a huge time commitment, the Ravenswood Park – Gray Beach and Magnolia Pier loop from Coolidge Reservation is a moderate 5.0-mile (8.0 km) hiking route with 273 feet (83 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 2 hours and 7 minutes. It's perfect for those who want a taste of everything the Gloucester area has to offer, from ocean views to deep forests, all in one accessible outing.

What to expect on Ravenswood Park – Gray Beach and Magnolia Pier loop from Coolidge Reservation

This loop offers a fantastic contrast, starting with the coastal beauty of Coolidge Reservation. You'll find relatively flat paths, some with pea gravel, leading to breathtaking ocean vistas from the Ocean Lawn and access to Gray Beach. As you transition into Ravenswood Park, the terrain shifts to a more extensive network of trails, featuring wide, crushed-stone carriage paths alongside more challenging sections with packed earth, roots, and boardwalks through wetlands like the Great Magnolia Swamp. Expect a generally easy to moderate effort, with some uneven ground, making it suitable for most hikers looking for varied scenery and historical elements like Colonial cellar holes.

Planning your visit

Parking is available at both Coolidge Reservation and Ravenswood Park, though spots are limited at both locations, so an early start is advisable, especially on busy days. Be aware that dogs are permitted in the woodlands of Coolidge Reservation but are not allowed on the Ocean Lawn or Gray Beach. In Ravenswood Park, dogs are allowed off-leash with some restrictions. Deer ticks are present in both areas, so take precautions like bug repellent and long pants. Mountain biking is not allowed in Coolidge Reservation and is restricted in Ravenswood Park.

Trail details

• Distance: 5.0 miles (8.0 km)
• Elevation gain: 273 feet (83 metres)
• Difficulty: moderate
• Estimated time: 2 hours and 7 minutes