But, we do ask that you follow some basic guidelines of what you can do when you visit a Trustees property.
Please note: Regulations concerning the following activities are subject to change.
FishingA Massachusetts State Fishing License is required for fishing at all properties where fishing is permitted. Please observe catch-and-release policies and other fishing regulations as they apply.
HuntingHunting is permitted on some properties subject to state and town laws. In some cases, Trustees permits are required and specific management regulations apply. During hunting season, signs are posted at properties where hunting is permitted.
Ice SkatingAll visitors who choose to ice skate on ponds at Trustees locations do so at their own risk. Visitors should make sure that ponds are sufficiently frozen before ice skating.
SwimmingAll visitors who choose to swim in water bodies on or adjacent to reservations do so at their own risk. Lifeguards are not present at most properties. To preserve the delicate ecology of our sites, we ask you adhere to no swimming signs when posted.
Dog WalkingDog walking is permitted on most (but not all) of our properties; guidelines can be found here. Please observe each individual property’s signage regarding whether dog walking is allowed, and if so, whether dogs must be leashed or if off-leash walking is permitted on specific trails.
Mountain BikingMountain biking is permitted on some properties and not on others. Where and when mountain biking is permitted, follow posted regulations, and observe the following rules of etiquette:
- Tread Lightly: Respect the environment and help maintain sustainable trails by only riding on trails open to mountain biking. Use existing trails only and avoid those that are wet or muddy.
- Control Your Bicycle: Protect yourself and other visitors from risk by riding in control and within your limits. Slow down when sight lines are poor or when approaching trail intersections.
- Yield Appropriately: Yield to all other trail users. Strive to make each pass safe and courteous. Announce yourself well in advance when approaching others from the rear. When passing horses, use special care and follow directions from the horseback rider.
Horseback RidingHorseback riding is permitted at some locations and not on others. Where and when horseback riding is permitted, please carry a permit (where required), follow posted regulations, and observe the following rules of etiquette:
- Maintain complete control of your horse at all times.
- Most trail users are not familiar with encounters with horseback riders. Please slow down, say hello, and advise other trail users on how to best pass you and your horse.
- Ride only on bridle paths and parts of the reservation where horseback riding is permitted.
Photography, Film & VideoNon-commercial, personal, outdoor hobby photography, film and video of Trustees properties are welcome, though we ask that you do not photograph inside historic houses. Subsequent commercial use of such photographs and video/film footage requires prior written permission from The Trustees of Reservations; fees will likely apply.
Certain Trustees properties are available for portrait photography sessions—i.e., any posed or candid portraiture of individuals by professional or amateur photographers, including scheduled shoots for engagements, families, maternity, proms, graduations, Quinceañeras, and more.
Permits are requied for portrait photography sessions at certain properties, and others require direct permission.
Photographs may not be commercial in nature or resold for commercial purposes. Wedding photography is not permitted at all properties, and Mini Sessions are not permitted at any properties. Professional portrait photography is not permitted at our museum properties: deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum and Fruitlands Museum.
DronesDrone usage is not permitted on most Trustees properties and is only allowed at some properties on a very limited, monitored basis. Requests for drone photography should be submitted by email to PortraitPhotography@TheTrustees.org.
Photography of VisitorsThe Trustees of Reservations reserves the right—and may give permission to its designated photographers and videographers, or to outside media—to photograph or video visitors and program participants at all its facilities and properties. These photos and videos are for promotional purposes and may be used in future publications, marketing, and media communications. By utilizing Trustees properties or by participating in Trustees programs and events, you consent to the taking and publication of your photograph and video for these purposes. If we have used a photo or video of you that you would prefer not to have used, please contact us by email at Marketing@TheTrustees.org requesting that we remove the image, and we will be happy to take the photo or video down from our website or social media, and not use the photo in future print publications.
