Four Generation Hike 2017

It's Labor Day and Matt & Becky are up for a visit.  When they visit Mom & Dad, it  usually means they'll be a some kind of fun, outdoor activity, so we'll be sure not to disappoint.

We choose to head up to The Other Cape in Massachusetts, that is, Cape Ann.  Becky's never visited Rockport, so that's were we're headed.

Our outdoor adventure will be to a Trustees of Reserations site,  Ravenswood Park in Gloucester. 
The trails are easy so neither the little ones nor the seniors should have any difficulty.

We choose a moderate length  loop where trail undulates a bit and
there are large rock formations to explore.

All four generations here, including Catherine on Alex's back.

Like I said, cool rocks.

Just a little bit of a climb, but a nice view is promised at the top.

Dominic gets a good view from the top of this rock.

From here you can see clear out into Gloucester Harbor.

Catherine says "Where is it?"

On the way down, Matt checks out the remains of an old quarry.

Dominic wasn't done hiking, so Matt went up to try, too, to try and coax him down..

When we're done, we head to our favorite seafood place on Cape Ann, J.T. Farnhams in Essex.
It's a favorite because Betsy and I can share delicious fried seafood that's gluten-free.

We park our cars at one of the Rockport lots and take a shuttle bus into town.
We stroll down Bearskin Neck past all the art galleries and ice cream shops to the end
where we can view the jetty which encloses Rockport Harbor.

When we're done, we head back to the bus stop, a little tired,
but enjoying a late afternoon snack before heading home.

The hike through Ravenswood Park was about 1.81 miles.  The parking was actually a little more challenging than the walking, but we were blessed with a couple spots.  Of course there was a little more walking in Rockport, but the highlight for the kids was probably the bus ride.  It was fun for all, to be sure!