Massachusetts really shines in warmer weather, but winter here has magic all its own. If you’re looking for a bit of solitude and a dose of clean, cool air, you should think about taking one of these calming winter hikes. They’re the perfect way to relax and reflect on the year ahead. Not to mention the wonderful bout of exercise you'll get. Here are seven of the best winter hikes in Massachusetts you can take. Grab your winter travel essentials and hit the trails!

1. Ponkapoag Pond Trail, Blue Hills Reservation, Milton

Perfect for cold weather hiking in Massachusetts, the Blue Hills Reservation is one of those hidden Boston-area gems that you shouldn’t miss out on. There are plenty of trails to choose from, but we recommend the Ponkapoag Pond Trail. It’s about 6.7 miles long and easy enough for casual hikers. Ponkapoag Pond Trail is perfect for winter hiking in Massachusetts.

2. Mahican-Mohawk Trail to Indian Trail Loop, Mohawk Trail State Forest, Rowe

The Mohawk Trail is one of Massachusetts’ most beautiful natural gems and it's located within the Mohawk Trail State Forest. Take this 4.7-mile loop trail to experience a bit of the wintery beauty of this park, which encompasses more than 6,000 acres of woodland. Visit Mass.gov to learn more about hiking in the Mohawk Trail State Forest.

3. Walden Pond Loop Trail, Concord

Famed author and transcendentalist, Henry David Thoreau found inspiration and serenity in the natural beauty of Walden Pond, and there’s plenty left over for the rest of us. Take the 1.9-mile loop trail around the pond to relax and unwind. It's perfect for those looking for winter hiking in Massachusetts. Visit Mass.gov to learn more about hiking around Walden Pond.

4. Arcadia Loop, Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary, Easthampton

For easy hikes in Massachusetts, this 1.7-mile trail is perfect for solo or family hikes. It’s an easy trek that will take you through snowy woods along relatively flat terrain. Keep your eyes peeled for deer and barred owls.

Visit the Mass Audubon website to learn more about hiking at Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary.

5. D.A.R. Long Trail, D.A.R. State Forest, Goshen

Are you looking for a longer hike that will allow you to really escape into nature? The Long Trail at D.A.R. State Forest is it. This 9.7-mile hike will take most hikers a few hours to complete and is the perfect way to really clear

Visit Mass.gov to learn more about hiking at the D.A.R. State Forest.

6. Hedge Drive and Mile Circle Loop, Maudslay State Park, Newburyport

Take this easy winter stroll through a well-maintained state park in Newburyport. The Hedge Drive and Mile Circle Loop is only 1.7 miles and offers plenty of flora to admire, especially since Maudslay State Park includes 19th-century gardens that are usually open to the public. Visit Mass.gov to learn more about hiking at Maudslay State Park. You'll find some of the best winter hiking in Massachusetts here.

7. Norwottuck Rail Trail, Northampton

The Norwottuck Rail Trail is a former railroad corridor that links the towns of Northampton, Hadley, and Amherst. The entire trail is about 10 miles long, but you can hop on and off at a number of trailheads along the way. The even terrain of the trail makes this hike ideal for families with small children. It's perfect for winter hiking in Massachusetts. Visit Mass.gov to learn more about hiking the Norwottuck Rail Trail.

What do you think of these best winter hikes in Massachusetts? What’s your favorite winter hike in the state? Do you know of any spots that are particularly lovely in the snow? Share your experiences with us in the comments!

You may also want to check out these winter day trips in Massachusetts if you're looking for some additional ideas.