January 2, 2020 – Franklin Park (Including Schoolmaster Hill Ruins)

Today Wilma and I Adventured to Franklin Park in Boston, Massachusetts. Franklin Park is the largest park in the Emerald Necklace at approximately 527 acres. It was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted in the 1890s. Franklin Park includes: trails, history, a public golf course, Schoolmaster Hill and the ruins, Scarboro Pond, and the Franklin Park Zoo.

We had an unexpected Adventure to Franklin Park. My initial plan was to visit the ruins at Schoolmaster Hill and then likely head to the Arnold Arboretum nearby. However, not knowing exactly where it was located we parked and began walking. I soon realized we were in Franklin Park, and decided to just explore, and hopefully locate the Schoolmaster Hill in the process. We immediately stumbled on Scarboro Pond, and decided to walk on the loop around this Pond. The Pond was simple, but lovely, filled with ducks and framed by two two bridges on the near and far ends. The people we passed were friendly, which is not something I would have expected in the city. Along this tiny loop we found a map to help us navigate our route.

After Scarboro Pond we headed on the main loop around the Park. The Park was centered by the golf course, and the clouds and sun were just right. We passed various things including a playground and cafe before arriving at the Schoolmaster Hill. I was so excited to head up the Hill to check out the ruins. We arrived at the ruins after a short walk up the Hill, trotting through the ruins several times, appreciating each moment of the experience. Wilma appeared extra curious, jumping up, putting her front paws up to look through, and peaking into each corner. I absolutely loved the ruins, they were beautiful. Definitely exceeded my expectations! (Please see below for a video as well as numerous photographs).

After spending time at Schoolmaster Hill we continued to explore the Park, including: The 99 Steps/Ellicott Arch, and Scarboro Hill with the “vista” lookout. We spent about two and a half hours walking on the paved trails, and trying to see what we could find. I absolutely loved watching the sun setting the clouds were framed by all colors, and sunlight creating a spectacular scene. I wish this beauty was easier to capture on camera. As you may expect the sunset and ruins were my favorite parts of today’s Adventure, while Wilma loved walking along the stone fences, jumping on the rocks, and the expected walking and sniffing. Although I had heard of Franklin Park I never thought of exploring it until our accidental find. So glad we could Adventure to Franklin Park today (Rating: 3.5)