Castle Hill Uncovered: Guided Nature Walk of Hidden Shores, Gardens & Trails

(1 Review)
  • From North Station
  • Activity Level: Moderate
  • Tour Duration: 2.5 hours

A Trek through the Crane Estate on Castle Hill | The Details

Discover the beauty of the North Shore with an exclusive journey through Castle Hill, featuring breathtaking coastal views, secret gardens, and serene walking trails. This guided experience offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and relaxation—all with seamless transportation from Boston.

What You’ll Experience

🌿 The Crane Estate – Step into a world of Gilded Age grandeur as you explore this stunning estate, once the summer retreat of the wealthy Crane family. Wander through beautifully landscaped gardens, admire the Italian-style architecture, and soak in panoramic ocean views.

🏖️ Hidden Beaches & Coastal Trails – Enjoy a peaceful walk along scenic trails leading to lesser-known shorelines. Take in the salty sea air, spot local wildlife, and experience the untouched beauty of the coast.

🌳 Gardens & Woodland Paths – Meander through lush gardens and winding woodland trails, uncovering picturesque spots perfect for quiet reflection or that Insta-worthy shot.

Why You’ll Love This Tour

✔️ Exclusive Access – Visit hidden gems beyond the typical tourist path.
✔️ Effortless Travel – Round-trip transportation from Boston’s North Station is included.
✔️ Perfect for Nature Lovers & History Buffs – A unique mix of coastal scenery and historic elegance.

Escape the city and uncover the hidden beauty of Castle Hill—reserve your spot today!

What’s Included

  • Weekend Commuter Rail PassValid all weekend on all Commuter Rail Lines
  • Step-by-step instructions on how to get to North Station & what train to take
  • Transportation from the outlying station to the activity and backNo need to find a rideshare, we've got you covered!
  • Certified CraneOutdoor's guide
  • Time on your own to explore

What to Bring

  • Closed toe shoes
  • Warm clothes
  • Water
  • Snacks

** Does not include an indoor mansion tour. Guest of the Cranes Mansion Tour can be added on during check out for $35 **

Getting to Castle Hill

Note: Your itinerary could vary based on the departure time you select when booking

8:20 am

Arrive to North Station to catch the 8:30 am Newburyport line train

8:30 am

Train departs

9:20 am

Arrival at Closest train station. Upon disembarking the train, you will see a bus with a massAdventures sign

9:45 am

Arrival to Crane Estate

9:45 - 10:00 am

Check-in

10:00 am

Your hike begins

12:30 pm

Your hike concludes

12:30 - 1:00 pm

Free time to enjoy Crane Estate on you own

1:00 pm

Board the bus back to Ipswich Station

1:21 pm

Train departs back to North Station in Boston

2:17 pm

Arrival back into North Station

Note: This schedule may vary based on the specific tour time you select. We will also send these details via email with more information on how to get to/from North Station upon booking. Your train ticket will be emailed to you 48 hours in advance of the trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my Commuter Rail Pass to take more than 1 tour in a weekend?

Yes! if there’s a tour you’re interested in both Saturday and Sunday you can book 1 tour at full price, the other you can book the ” commuter rail passholder” Option. This provides you with a $10 discount since you already have a valid Commuter Rail Ticket for that weekend.

Can I drive to the destination instead of taking the train?

For this tour, we offer a ticket option that excludes train and van transportation if you prefer to drive to the destination yourself. Please select the ticket labeled “No transportation needed.”

Please be aware that if there are any fees associated with parking at the destiaiton, these fees will not be covered.

Note: This option is not available for all tours.

Can I bring my own food/snacks?

Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food or snacks. Please be mindful that our bus can accommodate 1 personal item per person (e.g. backpack, tote bag). Please no large coolers. In many of the destinations there will be food/ drink to purchase. Please refer to your specific
itinerary for more information.

Is there a spot for me to change clothes pre/post tour

Yes, the kayaking facility has restrooms and changing rooms

Is this tour Beginner Friendly?

No, we would not recommend this tour if you’ve never kayaked before. If you’re a beginner kayaker or, looking for a more relaxed paced tour check out these trips below:

 

Crane Estate Kayaking Tour

Rockport Harbor Kayak Tour 

Gloucester Harbor Kayak Tour

What happens if my tour is outdoors and there is inclement weather?

massAdventures and our partners watch the weather closely in the days leading up to your tour. If there is inclement weather which impacts your tour and safety, we will notify you via email as soon as possible. If your tour gets canceled due to the weather, you will have the option to receive a full refund or reschedule it to a later date. (Pending tour availability.)

How is the start time of a tour calculated?

The start and end time of a trip is the time the train leaves the station. For example, if while booking your tour start time is listed as 8:07 am, this is the time your train departs North or South Station.

What if I’m the only person booked on a tour?

To ensure your tour proceeds as planned and to maintain a high-quality experience, we will arrange a rideshare service (via Uber or Lyft) to pick you up from the station and return you there after the tour, instead of chartering a full 14-passenger bus. This approach allows us to provide a personalized experience while being both environmentally friendly and financially sustainable. If this is the case, we will notify you 48 hours ahead of your tour.

What happens if I miss my train?

If you miss your train, please reach out to us at: contact@keolismassadventures.com and notify us as soon as possible so we can assist you. It’s possible you can catch a later train; however, you will need to take a rideshare service from the station to the start of the activity. Unfortunately, no refunds will be provided in the event you miss your train and cannot make the tour.

Can I reschedule my trip if something comes up?

Yes, please review our cancellation policy here.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Unfortunately, this tour is not wheelchair accessible

Can I stay on location longer and take a later train home?

Yes, you may choose to stay on location longer than scheduled, however, please be mindful that you must find your own transportation back to the Commuter Rail station. We do not guarantee that rideshare services will be available.

Are Dogs Allowed?

Although we LOVE dogs, and I mean love!! they are sadly not allowed on our tours regardless of if you’re taking the train or driving. Service animals are allowed 

If I Refer A friend Do I Earn Anything?

Yes!  Refer A friend and they’ll get $5 off their first  tour—plus, you’ll get $5 when they book!
 Click here to refer a friend

 

A Trustees of Reservations Property

Crane Estate is part of The Trustees of Reservations, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and protecting Massachusetts’ most treasured landscapes and historic sites. Founded in 1891, The Trustees manage over 100 special places across the state, from grand estates to scenic trails, ensuring these cultural and natural landmarks remain accessible for future generations. 

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contact@keolismassadventures.com

1 Review
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Noah G

Solo Traveller

Really informative, great short hike, only one of many outings available at Castle Hill!

12/02/2024