Black Pond Bog Nature Preserve

What to See

As plants grow inward from the edges of Black Pond, they cover the water with a floating, sponge-like mat of sphagnum moss which harbors sundew, sedges, cranberry, cottongrass, swamp loosetrife and Virginia chain fern. Surrounding the bog mat is a wet shrubby zone containing wild blueberry plants and Atlantic white cedar. The shrub zone grades into a red maple swamp as one moves away from the pond, and at the perimeter of the swamp is an upland forest dominated by oak, beech and hemlock, with scattered American holly.

Preserve Policies

• Preserve open daily from dawn to dusk.
• Foot traffic only.
• Groups larger than 10 people are asked to coordinate their visit with our Boston office, 617-532-8300.
• Please stay on the trail.
• No collecting of plants or animals.
• No pets.
• Carry out all litter.
• No fires, smoking or camping.

Accessibility

All reasonable requests for special accommodations will be made with ample notice.
If you have any questions while planning your outing, please contact our Boston office at 617-532-8300. Larger groups can obtain permission to use the parking lot when you contact us.

Suitable for all ages, this short trail and connecting boardwalk will take you through upland forest and cedar swamp to close-up views of the bog’s rich and unique vegetation. For a longer hike, this path connects with a trail system on abutting town land. 

Looking for something else to do while you're in the area? Consider visiting the South Shore Natural Science Center in Norwell.