Fort Osage Historic Site | Kansas City

Ravenswood Park is a 600-acre public park located in Gloucester, Massachusetts.

Visual Characteristics

The park features a mixed hardwood forest with stands of white pine. Dominant tree species include oak, maple, and beech. The terrain is characterized by rolling hills, rocky outcrops, and several small ponds and streams. The forest floor exhibits dense undergrowth in some areas, with moss-covered rocks and fallen logs.

Location & Access Logistics

Ravenswood Park is situated approximately 5 kilometers west of Gloucester's city center. Access is primarily via Eastern Avenue, which leads to the main parking area. Additional parking is available off Grapevine Road. The park is accessible by car. Public transport options are limited; the closest bus route stops several kilometers from the park entrance.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The land was originally part of a larger tract owned by the Choate family. In 1970, it was donated to the Trustees of Reservations, preserving it as a natural area. Ecologically, the park represents a temperate deciduous forest ecosystem, supporting a variety of flora and fauna typical of the New England region.

Key Highlights & Activities

Hiking is the primary activity, with over 10 kilometers of marked trails. The park offers opportunities for birdwatching and nature observation. Specific trails include the 3.2km loop around the central pond and the more challenging 5km ridge trail.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the main parking area. Limited shaded areas are present along the trails. Cell phone signal is intermittent within the park. No food vendors are located within the park; visitors should bring their own provisions.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, early morning or late afternoon provides optimal lighting conditions due to the forest canopy. The months of May through October offer the most pleasant weather for hiking. No specific tide requirements apply.

Facts & Legends

A local legend suggests that the park's name originates from the large number of ravens that historically inhabited the area. A verified historical fact is the presence of glacial erratics, large boulders transported and deposited by glaciers during the last ice age.

Nearby Landmarks

• Cape Ann Museum (3.5km East)
• Hammond Castle Museum (4.2km Northeast)
• Good Harbor Beach (4.8km East)
• Eastern Point Lighthouse (5.0km East)