MP's Red Dragon LbNA #36638 (ARCHIVED)

This letterbox is only accessible from Friday - Monday, 8:00am to Sunset. Dogs are allowed on most of the reservation but unfortunately not where the box is located. Bikes are not allowed.

Difficulty: 1
Terrain: 1
Time: Less than 1 hour
Distance: 1 to 1.5 miles round trip
Other Information: No ink. Bring your own ink.

Where it is: Coolidge Reservation.
Summer Street (Rte 127) Manchester-by-the-Sea, MA

For directions and more information about Coolidge Reservation: The Trustees of the Reservation

Trail maps are usually available at the information board at the entrance to the reservation, but don't count on it. I highly recommend you print the trail map and bring it with you just in case. Trail Map.

Background Information

This stamp was carved by Muddy Paws. We received it as part of a Letterbox Swap that was held at the Crazy Boxing Buddies Winter Social in February 2007. Based on this great carving, I guess you could call us the big winners of the Swap.

In any case, we wanted to find the perfect place for this great stamp. I believe we have finally done that. Coolidge Reservation is a gem. I listed the time as less than 1 hour because that is all it will take for you to get the box and leave again. Once you see this place, I challange you to get out in less than an hour and a half. Good Luck and don't forget the camera!

MP's Red Dragon

Recommended Route

This route is slightly longer and goes up to the top of Bungalow Hill, but it is a little quieter and the view from the top is nice.

Just past the Kiosk, and just before the Coolidge Reservation Regulations sign, the trail splits. Turn right and follow the smaller trail to the top of Bungalow Hill. Once you take in the view, turn and walk away from the water. Look to your right for the Hunter Green trail marker to continue. The trail winds down and you will cross a bridge. When you reach the bottom, you will see a small post and rail fence (only 2 sections). Bear left and continue. At the "T" intersection, turn right onto the main trail. Now follow the Common directions below.

Lazy, "just find the box" Route

Follow the main trail past the Kiosk and to the left of the Coolidge Reservation Regulations sign. Turn right at the "T" intersection onto the main trail.

Common Directions

As you head down the main trail you will soon pass Clarke Pond on your left. Just past the pond a trail will lead to Gray Beach. You don't need to go to the beach but you might want to take this short side trip now or on your way back out. In any case, to get to the box continue straight toward the Ocean Lawn. You will cross a street to continue. Follow the post and rail fence up and over the small hill and bear right. The Ocean Lawn will be in front of you.
Go to the Southwestern most point on the lawn and find this tree:



From the tree, take a reading of 130 degrees to a large rock, 20-25 feet away that is good for sitting. MP's Red Dragon is behind this rock under the middle of three smaller rocks.

Please be discreet and rehide carefully.

To return to your car

Return the way you came in. If you took the Bungalow Hill route you should take the quicker route back. After you pass the intersection where you met up with the main trail, look for a trail on the left. You will see it at about the same time you see a gate and a street up ahead. Take this left to get back to the parking area.