Parsons Reserve nears first weekend in full bloom

The Dartmouth Natural Resource Trust’s historical field of daffodils at Parsons Reserve has seen thousands of patrons throughout the years, yet still remains a “hidden gem.” 

Last year, Daffodil ranger Jack Dresser said he was surprised to see how many Dartmouth residents came for the first time and mentioned that they never knew it existed.

An approximately 10-minute walk up a steep incline, it’s tucked away off Horseneck Road and therefore, not known to everyone. This trail is not suitable for strollers, wagons or wheelchairs.

However, for some, Parsons Reserve has become a staple of their childhood — a fond memory with family or a peaceful, familiar place to revisit.

Whether it’s college students taking a break from exams, kids on school vacation or toddlers and babies taking in the sights and sounds of the world for the first time, the 80-year-old bulbs have provided a tranquil and colorful environment for them all. 

Residents and those interested from around the South Coast will have another opportunity to see this field in bloom. Though it is currently at 35% blossom, the Dartmouth Natural Resource Trust suspects the weekend of April 12 and 13 will be the unofficial opening for this classic spring activity. 

The daffodil field will close for a private function on Thursday, April 24 at 1 p.m. Normal dawn to dusk hours resume on Friday, April 25.

No professional photography sessions, no drones, no accessories (such as freestanding lights) and no props (such as chairs and balloons) are allowed.

At the daffodil field, the Trust will ask for a $5 donation per person for those who are not DNRT members. The daffodils should not be picked or stepped on. Dogs must remain leashed. 

For more information, such as on parking, visit the Dartmouth Natural Resource Trust’s website at dnrt.org/parsons/.