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Salem Willows Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 3,861 Google reviews · Running trail in Salem, Massachusetts · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Boardwalk
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Salem Willows Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Storied park since 1858 boasting a carousel, arcade & food vendors, plus a beach & outdoor concerts.
What runners say about Salem Willows Park
“The views early and late are beautiful from sunrise to sunset Salem Willows is a beautiful place to enjoy with family and friends.”
“This place is so fun, for all ages.”
There is no where else quite like the Salem Willows. So much to do and see here! + arcade games galore + small rides for little kids + beaches + paddleboard rentals + to-go restaurants with pizza, tacos, seafood, popcorn, saltwater taffy, many ice cream places + outdoor lawn space for a picnic, playing games,…
So much fun! The kids and ourselves as adults enjoyed the arcade and the fun boardwalk feel. A beautiful view of the water and open grass/picnic area. Kayak rentals available as well. Definitely looking forward to going back!
I loved coming here as a child! Loved the Flying Horses, Salt Water Taffee, popcorn, ice cream, kiddie rides, etc! My grandfather and I loved the Chop Suey Sandwiches and Tender Beef & Peppers sandwiches at Salem Lowe’s! Enjoyed the cool breezes under the shade of the willow trees! Always a special treat!
If you’re visiting Salem, this is one of those out of the way gorgeous scenic pit stops you should definitely check out. Quick drive and gorgeous views.
Trail conditions & character
“The views early and late are beautiful from sunrise to sunset Salem Willows is a beautiful place to enjoy with family and friends.”
“Parking is different but not impossible… just plan to walk a little ways or wait a little while for a spot to open up.”
“They do have a bathroom for boys and girls, but the bathrooms are very unsanitary and smell very bad.”
“The kids and ourselves as adults enjoyed the arcade and the fun boardwalk feel.”
Plan your run at Salem Willows Park
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfaceBoardwalk — flat and scenic, and slick when wet, so watch your footing
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- Websitewillowsarcade.com
- Phone(978) 745-0251
Hours
| Monday | 11 AM–9 PM |
| Tuesday | 11 AM–9 PM |
| Wednesday | 11 AM–9 PM |
| Thursday | 11 AM–9 PM |
| Friday | 11 AM–9 PM |
| Saturday | 11 AM–9 PM |
| Sunday | 11 AM–9 PM |
Running trails near Salem
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Beverly Common
4.5 ★★★★★ 77 reviews
Shaded hangout spot with a gazebo for summer music concerts and holiday events.
Axelrod Walkway Park
4.8 ★★★★★ 18 reviews
Steer Swamp Conservation Area
4.5 ★★★★★ 54 reviews
Forest featuring a network of trails alongside wetlands, a pond and open space for dogs.
