It would be worth traveling to the ends of the earth to experience the level of beauty concealed inside one conservation area near Boston. Thankfully, World’s End in Hingham is only a 21-mile trip south of downtown!

World’s End is a 251-acre reservation on a mainland peninsula that is part of the Boston Harbor Islands. Roughly four miles of gravel carriage paths form a figure-eight pattern leading through unforgettable and diverse views and narrower trails also crisscross the land. Any hike you take here is bound to be memorable, but one easy 4.5-mile round trip journey covers many of the highlights that World’s End has to offer.

Once inside the reservation, start your hike by heading left along the carriage road.

These were actually designed by the renowned landscape architect, Frederick Law Olmsted. Olmsted co-designed New York’s Central Park and was responsible for the Emerald Necklace, Arnold Arboretum, and many more spectacular green spaces throughout the country.

Pause to absorb the views of Boston Harbor and its skyline.

You’ll feel miles away from everything when you are surrounded by so much natural beauty. This is the only hint that you’re close to a major city.

The two pieces of land that make up World’s End are called drumlins. The outer drumlin used to be an island until settlers connected it via a causeway called The Bar.

As you cross the causeway, you’ll discover a small beach. You may have some company as you walk…

Follow the trail in a circle, skirting the edge of the second drumlin, named World’s End. From here you can see the houses of Hull...

...And rippling ocean views.

As you return via The Bar, keep left to explore the other side of the conservation area.

Veer off the main path towards Rocky Neck, where the landscape morphs into woods, cliffs, and a small body of water named Ice Pond. After Ice Pond, head back towards Weir River Road and turn left – this route leads back to the parking lot.

There’s a break in the trees that allows you to take in the sight of Damde Meadows and the wildlife taking refuge in this tidal marsh.

The variety of landscapes along the route keep the hike interesting as you transition from open fields and wooded areas to beautiful coastal views.

This land was once used for farming. It narrowly avoided becoming a residential subdivision and, later, a nuclear power plant.

World’s End was seriously considered as a location for the United Nations headquarters! But its current use is by far the best.

Dogs love it here - leashed pets are welcome!

World’s End is open year round and is popular with cross-country skiers in the winter.

If possible, visit World’s End on a weekday. Although the area itself never feels too crowded, parking is limited. For directions and other planning information, check out their website here.

Have you been to World's End?

Check out our past article featuring 9 more epic hiking areas in and around Boston.