Are you planning a trip to Boston, Massachusetts, this summer? If so, you may want to consider hitting some of the area’s hiking trails. Believe it or not, there are quite a few places in the region that offer excellent hiking opportunities. Here’s a brief look at a few of my favorite ones:
Hammond Pond Reservation
Hammond Pond Reservation is located in Middlesex County. It features miles of summer trails and is located close to the Webster Conservation Area. Sections of the park’s hiking trails are shaded by towering hemlock trees. Houghton Garden is definitely worth a visit. It is a great spot to bird watch and smell the flowers. Interesting rock formations, Gooch’s Cave, Cake Rock, a quaking bog and Hammond Pond also help to make the area a wonderful hiking destination.
Stony Brook Reservation
Stony Brook Reservation is located in Suffolk County. It features 12 miles of summer hiking trails. It is a great place for a leisurely hike. Hikers may want to consider taking Turtle Pond Path and the Bearberry Hill Path. Each one offers superlative opportunities to catch a glimpse of the area’s wildlife, including various species of birds. Other park highlights include Rooney Rock and the Overbrook Ledge.
Breakheart Reservation
Breakheart Reservation is located in Essex County. It features over 10 miles of summer hiking trails and paved roads. I’d suggest that hikers consider exploring a few of the park’s hills. The Ridge Trail winds past Rocky Hill, Crow Hill and Castle Rock. It can also be steep in spots, so hikers should plan accordingly. Park highlights include Pearce Lake, Silver Lake, Saugus River and stellar mountain views.
Middlesex Fells Reservation
Middlesex Fells Reservation is located in Middlesex County. It features over 100 miles of summer hiking trails. With so many superlative trails on offer, it is hard to pick just one. I’d suggest that hikers consider taking the 6.9 mile long Skyline Trail or the 3.7 mile long Rock Circuit Trail. Park highlights include Spot Pond, Wright’s Tower and opportunities to catch sight of wild swamp azaleas.
Blue Hills Reservation
Blue Hills Reservation is located in Norfolk. It features 125 miles of summer hiking trails. I would recommend that stalwart hikers contemplate exploring the Skyline Trail. It can be arduous in spots but offers amazing views from several summits. There are also ample opportunities to bird watch. Park highlights include the Great Blue Hill, the Blue Hill Observatory, Houghton’s Pond, Ponkapoag Pond, and the Blue Hills Trailside Museum.
Killeen Gonzalez enjoys summer sports and recreation with her family. She has also traveled extensively.
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