Exploring Seine Field in Gloucester is now a bit easier after the completion of a wide, newly-graded trail.
Named for fishermen’s nets that are occasionally spread out to dry and repair, Seine Field is a lovely place to meander and observe nature.
We encourage visitors with a range of mobilities to enjoy this new quarter-mile loop that leaves directly from the parking area which is a stop on the Cape Ann Transportation Authority (CATA) route.
Seine Field is a rare New England habitat type known as an “Open Heathland” or "Relic Sandplain Grassland," characterized by arid, sandy soil and a landscape of low vegetative growth.
This property is also important habitat for native and migrating birds. A good place to observe woodcock in spring; American Kestrels and Northern Harriers are seen in the summer and fall. In summer, you’ll find butterflies, including tiger swallowtails and fritillaries, and in fall, monarchs, along this migratory flyway. Short-eared owls, coyote and red fox hunt the many small field mammals.
Generous funding from the Gloucester Community Preservation Act made this trail work possible.