Very interesting trek today to Art's & Nellie's Trails, in the very center of Cape Ann. Haven't been there in over a year -- and the last visit was in summer, which makes for a totally different experience. In summer, Art's gives a sense of being deep in the forest, surrounded by lush foliage and sea of ferns. Today, instead of forest, it was an expansive field of lichen colored boulders and downed trees -- stark but beautiful. Nellie's was much the same. Both required slow and careful stepping. Could never do this with snow or ice on the ground! Both trails were well marked -- Nellie's by CATS orange disks, and Art's by red dots. Without the red dots (which were plentiful), Art's would be hard to follow. Seems like it has veered from the original path in a few places, almost requiring a bit of bushwacking in spots. Would benefit from a good trail clearing. Starting from Cherry St. was a good choice -- quick on the way in, and easy going on the way out -- making up for the slow pace on Art's & Nellie's. 4.2 miles total (with an added loop through Briar Swamp boardwalk). Took 2 hrs. 13 mins.; finished by 12:30. Mild day -- low 40s, cloudy. 14 people in the group. Led by Monica, with assist from Jim and Peter.