Summer Solstice Sunrise Walk at Poles Hill

For early-risers who would like to see the Summer Solstice sunrise from an ancient Solar Observatory built by Native Americans, join us for our annual Summer Solstice Sunrise walk at Poles Hill in Gloucester!

CATS Board member and Poles Hill Trail Steward Sandy Barry will lead a walk at Poles Hill to view the Solstice Sunrise from  the "Gnomon" (a boulder placed by Native Americans over 2000 years ago as part of a Solar Observatory that marks the location of the Solstice and Equinox sunrises and sunsets). 

For more information about this ancient Solar Observatory at Poles Hill (also called "Sunset Hill"), click HERE to view a short video explaining it. 

After the sunrise, Sandy will lead those who are interested on a walk through the rest of the Poles Hill Conservation Area, including a scenic overlook with expansive views to the ocean.  The terrain is moderate with boulders and and granite ledge, including a few short, steeper segments that require careful stepping (note that the walk to the Gnomon for sunrise viewing is short and easy).  Total distance of the walk will be less than 1 mile.  Trekking poles are recommended if you use them.

(Photo of the Summer Solstice Sunrise from the Gnomon at Poles Hill in 2023)

Meeting Spot:  Meet at 4:55 am at the entrance to Poles Hill off of Riverview Rd. in Gloucester.  The entrance is a small dirt road on the left (when coming in from Wheeler St.), just after the house at 6 Riverview Rd.  See map of the Poles Hill Entrance location HERE.

Sunrise on June 20 is at 5:07am (the Gnomon where we will view the sunrise is a short walk, approximately 0.14 miles from our meeting location).

You may park on the side of Riverview Rd., and there are also some parking spaces by Brown's Field at the intersection of Wheeler St. and Apple St.  Please be courteous to the neighbors!