Chebacco Woods Gateway

Formerly the 133 Essex Street/Chebacco Woods Conservation Project

In January 2026, after years of discussion, Greenbelt permanently protect 66 acres of land at 133 Essex Street in Hamilton, adjacent to Chebacco Woods. This property has long been a conservation priority, and its protection significantly expands the conserved landscape of Chebacco Woods, including a well-established trail network cherished by the community.

The varied landscape of this property includes mature forestland, dramatic rocky outcrops, vernal pools, and prominent working farmland along both Route 22 (Essex Street) and Chebacco Road. The property connects directly to the trails in Chebacco Woods, a popular year-round destination for outdoor recreation among residents of the region.

“This conservation project truly captured the community’s interest, with nearly 700 individual donors contributing — a record for any Greenbelt land campaign — and generating extraordinary support from across the region,” says Greenbelt President Chris LaPointe. “It’s incredibly heartening to see this level of enthusiasm for a project we’re so excited to bring to life.”

Chebacco Woods Gateway | Spring Celebration Events

Thanks to incredible community support, Chebacco Woods Gateway is now permanently protected, and we’re excited to share it with the public! This spring, we hope you’ll join us to explore this vibrant, ecologically rich landscape at one of the below events.
 

  •  Birding Meander with Bill Gette | Thursday, April 23 | 9:00 – 11:00am
    Explore the woodlands and fields of the Chebacco Woods Gateway property with Bill Gette, founding Director of Mass Audubon’s Joppa Flats Education Center. Bill will help you spot local birds and share tips for identifying them in the field. This walk welcomes all skill levels, with guidance especially suited for beginning and intermediate birders. Don’t forget your binoculars if you have them! Click here to register.
     
  • Long Exploration Hike (3+ Miles) | Saturday, April 25 | 9:00 – 11:00am
    Join Greenbelt staff for an adventurous 3+ mile hike starting in the newly protected Chebacco Woods Gateway and continuing into the surrounding Chebacco Woods trail system. The trail includes varied terrain, with some steep and uneven sections, offering a rewarding challenge for experienced hikers. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water as you explore this beautiful landscape. Click here to register.
     
  • Natural History Exploration with Neil Shea, Restoration Program Director at IRWA | Friday, May 8, 10:00am
    Discover the natural history of Chebacco Woods Gateway with Neil Shea, Restoration Program Director at the Ipswich River Watershed Association (IRWA). Learn why this landscape is ecologically important and worth protecting and uncover how glaciers and ice sheets shaped the region over 10,000 years ago — creating many of the features still visible today. This moderate 1–2 mile hike over uneven terrain is perfect for anyone interested in geology, ecology, and the story of the land. Click here  to register.
     
  • Mountain Bike Ride with NEMBA | Saturday, May 16 | 9:00 – 11:00am
    Join Greenbelt and the New England Mountain Bike Association’s North Shore chapter for a group ride beginning at the newly protected Chebacco Woods Gateway in Hamilton. This intermediate-level ride requires a helmet and a mountain or gravel bike. Click here to register.


These events are free and open to the public, but space is limited. Please register in advance to ensure a space and receive updates.