Three Walking Routes Around Shirley, MA

Hello, Shirley!!

This week's article is a little different and a lot of fun.

For this edition, I took a field trip with our Associate Editor, Meredith, who gave me a tour of Shirley while sharing some of the town's local history. Together, we mapped out three walking routes around town for you to enjoy.

If you've ever found yourself saying, "I want to go for a walk, but I don't know where to go," this article is for you.

Each route offers something a little different, whether you're looking for a shorter stroll, a scenic loop, or a more challenging walk with hills. Some routes have sidewalks while others do not. Anytime you're walking on a road without a sidewalk, remember to walk on the left shoulder so you can see oncoming traffic, stay aware of your surroundings, and wear bright or reflective clothing whenever possible.

1. Front Street Route (Up to 3 Miles)

Park at the Village Shoppes Plaza to begin.

This is my favorite route because it can truly be a "choose your own distance" walk.

Start by walking down Front Street, which is mostly flat and has sidewalks the entire way. If you'd like to complete the full three-mile loop, turn left onto Patterson Road, then take another left onto Ayer Road and continue back down.

Use extra caution on Ayer Road, as there is no sidewalk. If you'd rather stay on sidewalks the entire time, simply turn around on Front Street and head back the way you came.

To finish the full loop, cross back to Front Street using Phoenix Crossing, walk through the train station area, and return to the Village Shoppes parking lot.

The complete loop is about 3 miles, but it's just as great as an out-and-back if you're looking for a shorter walk.

2. Dale E. Prentiss Field Route (2 Miles)

Park at Dale E. Prentiss Field to start.

This route is a little hillier than the first, making it a great option if you're looking for a bit more of a challenge.

From Harvard Road, head toward Main Street and take a right. Stay on Main Street for a short distance before turning right onto Fredonian Street.

Follow Fredonian Street until you can't continue straight, then turn right onto Shaker Road. Along this stretch you'll pass the beautiful Phoenix Pond, with the historic Phoenix Place Mill in the background. It's one of the prettiest spots on the route and definitely worth stopping for a photo.

Continue along Shaker Road until you reach Harvard Road again. It will be a sharp right turn. From there, simply follow Harvard Road back to your car.

This route includes a combination of sidewalks and open roadway. While traffic is generally lighter, it's still important to stay alert, wear bright or reflective clothing, and be aware of your surroundings.

3. Benjamin Hill Road Route (About 3.3 Miles)

Park at the Benjamin Hill Park Area.

This is the most challenging of the three routes thanks to its hills, so be prepared for a little extra work.

When you leave the parking lot, turn left and continue toward Ayer Road, then bear right onto Davis Street.

From Davis Street, turn right onto Center Road and continue until you reach Hazen Road.

Follow Hazen Road until you come to Benjamin Hill Road, then turn right to complete the loop back to the parking area.

This route is approximately 3.3 miles and includes several longer inclines with no sidewalks. Be sure to stay on the left side of the road facing traffic, remain aware of your surroundings, and wear bright or reflective clothing whenever possible.

Whether you're training for a race, getting your daily movement in, or simply looking for a new way to enjoy Shirley, I hope one of these routes helps you get outside and explore. Sometimes all we need is a destination or in this case, a route to make getting our steps in a little more enjoyable.