Smith Farm Reserve - DNRT

Smith Farm Reserve - DNRT Smith Farm is a 140 acre Reserve with farmland, meadows, upland forest, and salt marsh habitats. Open sunrise to sunset.

Smith Farm is a 140-acre protected gem, containing almost all the habitats found in Dartmouth: agricultural farmland, meadows, upland forest, freshwater wetland, wetland forest, ponds, streams and salt marsh. Four walking trails provide a pleasant way to explore Smith Farm’s diverse surroundings. The wetland woods are carpeted with luxuriant growth of various mosses, mounds of sphagnum moss, ferns

and innumerable clear pools and rivulets- a paradise for the varieties of frogs, salamanders and turtles. Several well-constructed bridges and boardwalks allow walkers access to the wooded wetlands without wet feet. Another special feature is a large man-made horseshoe-shaped trout pond with clear and deep waters ringed by a narrow trail. Beyond this, the Orange Trail leads to an observation platform overlooking the Nonquitt salt marsh. In 2014, Nonquitt salt marsh hydrology was restored to pre-1930s conditions. Historically the old farm was owned by James Henry Smith, who purchased the property in 1898 and used it for dairy farming until the 1950s.

03/07/2026

We are making progress clearing trails after the storm. Here is where we suggest hiking. Please note that even cleared trails are still difficult with deep snow and areas of slush.

02/27/2026

We are continuing to clear our trails and thank you for your patience! We are still advising folks to stay off the trails for the time being. If you must go out, please have a buddy, be aware of your surroundings, and make sure you have good pair of snow shoes!A

02/26/2026
02/25/2026

After taking some time to assess our trail systems, we are advising all to stay off of our trails for the time being. Conditions are unsafe.

03/06/2025
11/06/2024

Pictures don't don't do this huge job justice! Big improvement on the Blue Trail at Smith Farm Reserve - DNRT! Thanks to our volunteers for constructing this sturdy stream crossing and THANK YOU! Your support helps us to improve our infrastructure and keep our trails safe for you and your family.

THANK YOU!!!
11/10/2020

THANK YOU!!!

WE DID IT!!!!!
Thank you all so much for helping us reach our goal of raising $40,000 for our 40 miles of trails. We are truly grateful for the support offered by over 250 friends, volunteers, and DNRT members. You have showed us immense support and love during difficult times. Keep on loving those trails! ❤️

06/11/2020
06/02/2020

DNRT Land Steward Leah Howard points out several wildflowers that she finds during her hike at Star of the Sea Reserve.

Have you been enjoying the DNRT trails? Consider a donation today! Our trails have been seeing more use than ever and we...
05/14/2020

Have you been enjoying the DNRT trails? Consider a donation today! Our trails have been seeing more use than ever and we need your help to maintain them.

First time donors of $25+ during the month of May will receive a FREE Guide to Outdoor Recreation in Dartmouth book. This guide, which normally retails for $15, features over 70 full color pages with DNRT trails, as well as state, town, and other non-profit hiking areas. Join today: dnrt.org/member

Address

Smith Neck Road
South Dartmouth, MA
02748

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 6pm
Tuesday 8am - 6pm
Wednesday 8am - 6pm
Thursday 8am - 6pm
Friday 8am - 6pm
Saturday 8am - 6pm
Sunday 8am - 6pm

Telephone

(508) 991-2289

Website

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About Smith Farm

Smith Farm is a 140-acre protected gem, containing almost all the habitats found in Dartmouth: agricultural farmland, meadows, upland forest, freshwater wetland, wetland forest, ponds, streams and salt marsh. Four walking trails provide a pleasant way to explore Smith Farm’s diverse surroundings.

The wetland woods are carpeted with luxuriant growth of various mosses, mounds of sphagnum moss, ferns and innumerable clear pools and rivulets- a paradise for the varieties of frogs, salamanders and turtles. Several well-constructed bridges and boardwalks allow walkers access to the wooded wetlands without wet feet.

Another special feature is a large man-made horseshoe-shaped trout pond with clear and deep waters ringed by a narrow trail. Beyond this, the Orange Trail leads to an observation platform overlooking the Nonquitt salt marsh. In 2014, Nonquitt salt marsh hydrology was restored to pre-1930s conditions.