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.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
This 1.8-mile loop is a great spot for birdwatchers and people looking for a quick hike. Dogs can join hikers here, though they must be kept on leash.
Wilson Mountain Reservation, 384 Common St, Dedham, MA 02026, USA
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
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.
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Best Hikes in Massachusetts
April 18, 2022
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.
