Hiking in Massachusetts is spectacular in any season, but it’s hard to deny there’s something special about hitting the trails in the fall. The spectacular foliage and the crisp fall air make for a truly awesome time to explore the wilds. Check out these short and sweet fall hikes that won’t take you all day but still offer some amazing views. They're some of the best hikes in Massachusetts!

1. Wachusett Mountain West Side Trail, Wachusett Mountain

First on the list of the best hikes in Massachusetts that are perfect for fall is Wachusett Mountain West Side Trail. Try this quick loop trail on Wachusett Mountain near Westminster for a fun and easy fall hike. The trail is only 2.7 miles round trip and will take you through groves full of copper-hued leaves and past scenic overlooks. It’s a great place to appreciate the beauty of the season.

2. Pond Trail, Tully Mountain, Royalston

Tully Mountain is a gorgeous peak in central Massachusetts. It’s also home to Tully Pond, a quiet and scenic little spot that offers surprisingly dramatic views of Doane’s Falls. The hike around the pond is level and quick, perfect for a day hike or family outing.

3. Caryl Trail at Noanet Woodlands, Dover

The Noanet Woodlands in Dover offers over 17 miles of trails for all experience levels, but the Caryl Trail is a short and sweet hike that’s perfect for casual hikers. It's also a great kid-friendly hike around Massachusetts. The trail extends for about a half-mile and will deliver you to a charming old mill site ringed by lovely fall color.

Learn more about Noanet Woodlands.

4. Skyline Trail at Middlesex Fells Reservation, Stoneham

The Middlesex Fells Reservation Skyline Trail will reward you with a gorgeous view of the Boston skyline (get it?), complete with stunning fall foliage.The trail is just under seven miles and perfect for an afternoon hike and picnic combo.

Check out more about Middlesex Fells Reservation.

5. Monument Mountain Trail, Monument Mountain, Great Barrington

This lovely 2.8-mile loop trail is offers gorgeous views of the Housatonic River Valley and the southern Berkshires. You’ll encounter a few steep bits, but for the most part the trail is an easygoing amble up and down the mountain.

Find out more about Monument Mountain.

6. Mass Audubon’s Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary, Topsfield

This 1,954-acre wildlife sanctuary offers 12 trails to choose from, so you’ll be spoilt for choice as you explore the gorgeous fall woods. If you’re feeling extra adventurous and are a Mass Audubon member, you can rent a canoe and paddle around the marshes of Ipswich River.

See more about Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary.

7. Mount Norwottuck and Horse Caves Trails, Mount Holyoke State Park

These trails may be short but they pack a lot of punch. The Mount Norwottuck trail is just 3.2 miles, but will take you to the summit of the mountain. The Horse Caves trail will bring you to a series of ledges that have amazing views of the foliage. We bet you'll agree that is one of the most scenic hikes in Massachusetts.

Read more about hiking at Mount Holyoke State Park.

8. Birch Pond, Saugus

This is the ultimate quick and easy hike. Birch Pond is part of the Lynn Woods Reservation and can be reached via a pleasant 4.4-mile loop trail OR via a quick walk from the road on the other side of the reservation. Either way, once you're there you'll want to walk around the pond and admire the reflection of the foliage in the clear water.

Check out more about Birch Pond.

9. The Gardens at Elm Bank, Wellesley

If you're looking for more of a walk than a hike, The Gardens at Elm Bank is the perfect spot to wander. With 35 acres of woodlands, meadows, fields and gardens to discover and plenty of winding paths to explore, you'll be sure to find a pretty fall scene around every corner.

Find out more about The Gardens at Elm Bank.

10. Silver Lake Loop Trail, Breakheart Reservation, Saugus

When waterfront views are involved, it's hard to go wrong.

Read more about Breakheart Reservation.

For more stunning hikes to try, check out our list of great hikes under 5 miles in Massachusetts that everyone should try.