Find answers to frequently-asked questions about the Trustees Quest, including how the Quest works, how to participate, and more things to do with kids.
Trustees Quest FAQs
What is The Trustees?The Trustees is the nation’s first and Massachusetts’ largest preservation and conservation nonprofit, supported by members, friends, and donors. We enjoy and care for 123 special places—nearly 27,000 acres—all around Massachusetts. Each year, more than 2 million people visit our reservations, 250,000 people participate in our more than 5,000 programs and events, and volunteers contribute over 50,000 hours of assistance in all aspects of our work. Learn more here.
How do I participate in the Trustees Quest?To participate, sign up for the Quest and then download the free Trustees Quest guide, with trail maps and clues for all five sites, and be on your way to locating that first Quest location. When you arrive at one of the five Quest properties, solve the clues in your Trustees Quest guide for that property. The clues will lead you to a final, special location! Once there, you’ll see a small sign with a QR code, which will send you information about the spot.
We recommend printing the Trustees Quest guide in advance (or saving to your phone) and bringing the suggested common household items in the guide to take part in the activities. You’ll receive a link to the Quest guide in your first welcome email in mid-April when we launch.
Where are the locations of the Quest?There are five locations throughout Massachusetts:
Bartholomew’s Cobble, Sheffield (Berkshires)
Copicut Woods, Fall River (South of Boston)
Long Hill, Beverly (North of Boston)
Rock House Reservation, West Brookfield (Central MA)
Rocky Woods, Medfield (Metro West)
What do I need to participate in the Trustees Quest?No special gear is required! Bring your curiosity, adventurous spirit, and smartphone to capture memories and download the QR code for more information at the site. Read the Trustees Quest guide before you go, and bring along the common household items suggested in the guide, to participate in the activities. Before hitting the trails, check out these tips to getting started, including how to prepare for your day outdoors.
Does this cost anything?The Quest is free and self-guided. All of the five properties are free to visit for Members.
For non-members there are admission or parking fees at:
- Rocky Woods: $6 per car
- Bartholomew’s Cobble: $5 per person for non-members; $1 per non-member child (6-12)
- Long Hill: $10 adults, $5 children 3-12; children under 3 are free
Not yet a Member? You can learn more about Member benefits and join here!
What ages?All are welcome! The clues may be best for elementary school aged kids, but we think adults will have fun participating too.
How long does each adventure take?Though these times are approximate, we estimate each adventure length below:
- Bart’s Cobble: 60 min
- Rock House Reservation: 45 min
- Rocky Woods: 60 min
- Long Hill: 30 min
- Copicut Woods: 60 min
I can’t find the Quest site! There is a Quest hint page here.
Will there be cellular service at the site?Cellular service can vary widely, depending on your location and carrier. We recommend downloading the Trustees Quest guide, which includes trail maps and the clues, prior to setting out.
I’m done with the Quest! Will more sites be added?We hope to add additional locations to the Trustees Quest in time for summer. Stay tuned! If you have signed up for the Quest, you will receive a survey in May to get your feedback on what you liked about this pilot program, and what can be improved for next time!
How do I scan for my digital badge?At the end of each adventure, you will find a sign with a QR code to scan with your cell phone or tablet. Use your device camera to scan the code.
Here’s how to scan the QR code:
- On your smartphone or tablet, open the built-in camera app.
- Point the camera at the QR code.
- Move your camera so the QR code is in the frame.
- The QR code’s URL will appear over it.
- Click on that url.
How do I get more information about the Quest properties?For questions about parking, hours of operation, or other property-specific information, please visit the individual property pages:
Bartholomew’s Cobble, Sheffield
Copicut Woods, Fall River
Long Hill, Beverly
Rock House Reservation, West Brookfield
Rocky Woods, Medfield
Are there other things I can do with my kids?Yes! We provide thousands of events and programs for you to enjoy across the state at our inspired places. Check out a list of family friendly programming here, with everything from owl prowls to guided hikes, firepits, and full moon adventures! There’s something for everyone, and all experience levels. For some of our favorite kid-friendly hike suggestions, click here.
Sign up for the Quest
