J.C. Phillips Nature Preserve — Attraction in Wenham

Great trail to hike, not very long. It took about an hour as I went around to all the trails. Gorgeous views, occasional wildlife, and other hikers. Places to sit and reflect or just walk and hike.

I discovered that it was easy to get confused as some of the signs are similar, so if unfamiliar, just take some pics to note location.

I had a fellow hiker help me find my vehicle as the scenery was really gorgeous, and I got distracted and didn't pay attention to my surroundings. You really can't get lost, but you can waste time backtracking if you don't know where you are in relation to your vehicle.

No bathrooms I could find, so plan ahead.

Would definitely go again, if lived closer would be...

The Phillips Preserve abuts Wenham Lake, a public water supply. It's about a 45 minute loop walk with occasional views of the lake. There are benches for sitting and viewing. Generally the trails are dry, a little hilly. At the summit lies the foundation of the original summer house for the family. It burned down around the 1930's. It used to have walkways down to the lake. The main road leading to the house was a driveway and was planted with tree's brought in by the family from California.

Overall it's a nice place to walk your dog, or for...

I'm taking one star away for the complete lack of signage and trail maps. This park has zero street presence and the "parking lot" is more of a driveway entrance apron that is easy to miss. Traffic blasts along 97 so keep dogs and toddlers close at hand. The trails are wide and flat - feels like a cross country meet is about to break out at any moment. The so called "eskers" are what set this preserve apart and the paths along the lake are first rate. There are odd paths that lead to areas marked "no trespassing" which are...