11 Low-Key Hikes In Massachusetts With Surprising Payoffs
If you are wondering, “Where are the best hikes near me?” Here are some answers. Massachusetts is an incredible place to explore the outdoors. We have sandy beaches, quiet lakes, and sprawling forests that are perfect for hiking. When you want to experience a bit of nature but don’t want to take all day about it, consider one of the best hikes in Massachusetts. These low-key Massachusetts hikes offer surprising payoffs.
1. Ashley Reservoir Trail in Holyoke offers a splendid view! The trail will take you 4.5 miles around a looping path beside the reservoir, which consists of Wright and Ashley ponds.
You'll be able to walk across a narrow spit of land that joins one side of the lake to the other, which is the perfect spot for a photograph or a mid-hike stretch. The trip takes about an hour-and-one-half to complete. This kid-friendly hike around Holyoke is also known for birding, mountain biking, and hiking.
Ashley Reservoir, Holyoke, MA 01040, USA
2. All Person's Trail, Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary in Natick, is one of the most scenic hikes with waterfalls in Massachusetts.
This quick little, kid-friendly hike is just 0.25 miles and won't take you very long to complete, and the views are truly wonderful. The All Persons Trail is universally accessible and will lead you through lush forests, across fields, and along the edges of ponds and streams. It includes a 430-foot boardwalk that's the perfect vantage point from which to watch turtles in the spring and summer.
Mass Audubon's Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary, 280 Eliot St, Natick, MA 01760, USA
3. Ravenswood Park Trail in Gloucester is another hiking trail in Massachusetts.
This lovely hike is just about 2.3 miles, one of the easy hikes in Massachusetts. It will take you through the trees of Ravenswood Park. You’ll likely have the trail to yourself, as this is a lightly trafficked area. Enjoy plenty of wildflowers in the spring, and lovely lake views all year round.
Ravenswood Park, 481 Western Ave, Gloucester, MA 01930, USA
4. Hulbert's Hill, Bartholomew's Cobble in Sheffield offers stunning views and a great, family-friendly walking path that takes you to the top of Hulbert's Hill. It is one of the most scenic hikes in the state.
The total trail length is 3.5 miles, but you can cut that down to a mile or less depending on which route you take. The terrain is very even, though you should expect some uphill walking.
Bartholomew's Cobble Reservation, 105 Weatogue Rd, Sheffield, MA 01257, USA
5. Tucker Hill Loop, Blue Hills Reservation in Milton, is a sprawling 6,000-acre preserve that covers parts of Milton, Quincy, Braintree, Canton, Dedham, and Randolph.
The loop is a manageable 0.8-mile hike that's only 10 miles south of Boston, so it's perfect for city-dwellers looking to escape for the afternoon. It is one of the best hikes in Massachusetts.
Blue Hills Reservation, 695 Hillside St, Milton, MA 02186, USA
6. Gates Pond in Berlin is totally undeveloped and is not in sight of any of the buildings. You'll feel as if you're a million miles away from civilization here.
This little pond hike is perfect for a winter, summer, spring, or fall outing. Hiking around the pond will let you cover around 2.5 miles of ground. If you're lucky enough to drop by during the dead of winter, you can cross-country ski and snowshoe around the water. Some people even ski across the frozen pond, though doing so can obviously be very risky.
Gates Pond, Berlin, MA 01503, USA
7. Bray Loop Trail in Holyoke is located at Mount Tom State Reservation. It is one of the best hikes in Massachusetts.
At just 2.2 miles, this awesome hike will take you up the side of Mt. Tom to gorgeous views of the Connecticut Valley to the north and south. You'll also spot the Berkshire mountains to the west and the Pelham hills to the east. Bring sturdy shoes as the trail can sometimes be a bit rocky.
Bray Loop Trail, Holyoke, MA 01040, USA
8. Battle Road Trail in Minute Man National Historical Park traces the British Redcoats' route on their march to and from Concord on April 19, 1775.
The trail extends for 5 miles, as a walking and biking path. It is considered an easy route, but you definitely don't have to walk the entire trail to enjoy its beauty. This winding path features beautiful wildflowers in the spring and can be used for mountain biking.
Battle Road Trail, Battle Rd Trail, Concord, MA, USA
9. Wilson Mountain Reservation Trail in Dedham, is a short and sweet trail, offering scenic views of the forest and surrounding landscapes.
Located in the Blue Hills Reservation, it is perfect for a brisk walk with the dog or family. Though the path can get a bit rocky at times, this trail is doable for beginners and will reward you with awesome views of the surrounding hills. You'll definitely feel lost in nature here.
Blue Hills Reservation, 695 Hillside St, Milton, MA 02186, USA
11. Mentzner Trail and Sparrow Trail Loop in Berlin is a 2.2-mile loop trail near Milton located in the Mount Pisgah Conservation area.
This moderately - challenging route offers visitors the chance to spot beautiful birds and other wildlife, as well as breathtaking views of the countryside. It is also a popular area for horseback riding and mountain biking.
Mount Pisgah, Mt Pisgah, Berlin, MA 01503, USA
After reading about these hiking trails in Massachusetts — did you choose a favorite? Share and let us know in the comments! For more of the best trails to explore, take a look at some more scenic hikes in Massachusetts.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
The OIYS Visitor Center
Best Hikes in Massachusetts
April 18, 2022
Carolyn Harmon
What's the most beautiful hike in Massachusetts?
One of the most beautiful hiking trails with waterfalls is All Persons Trail at Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary in Natick. This quick little, kid-friendly hike is just 0.25 miles and won't take you very long to complete, while admiring the breathtaking views of the waterfall.
What is one of the best hiking trails in Massachusetts?
Another great hiking trail in Massachusetts is:
the Blue Hills Skyline Loop near Quincy is a little longer, with a 5.4-mile trail. In addition to hikers, this one is a favorite of horseback riders and mountain bikers.
What are some of the best kid-friendly hikes around Massachusetts?
Two of the best kid-friendly hikes around Massachusetts are:
World's End Trail, a 3.8-mile loop trail that is considered an easy hike, near Hingham, Massachusetts. Here you will run into birders, and cross-country, skiers. Dogs on leashes are also welcome.
Walden Pond Path, an easy 1.9-mile loop trail near Concord, is a very popular area for birding.
Massachusetts In Your Inbox
Thank you! You will receive your first email soon.