World’s End

Not exactly an island, this 251-acre peninsula was originally designed by Frederick Law Olmsted for residential development in 1889. Carriage paths were laid out and trees were planted, but the houses were never built. Instead, wide grassy meadows attract butterflies and grass-nesting birds. Over the years the area escaped proposals for development as a UN headquarters and a nuclear power plant, and today it is managed by the Trustees of Reservations, which guarantees continued serenity and beauty. The 4-plus miles of tree-lined carriage paths are perfect for walking, mountain biking or cross-country skiing – download a map from the Trustees website. It is accessible by car from Hingham.