Even while city life has some of the greatest restaurants, entertainment options, and theaters, there are times when you simply want to get outside, get some fresh air, and explore some quiet open paths. You don’t actually need to go to the White Mountains or the Appalachian Trail to satisfy your yearning for nature. Boston is undoubtedly one of the nicest and most attractive cities in the nation, but in addition, our beloved Beantown is bordered by some really breathtaking nature.
Discover the natural outdoors at these 7 stunning mountain hiking locations near Boston, suitable for walkers of all abilities, from the more urban Emerald Necklace to the mountainous routes of World’s End.Â
#1. Blue Hills Reservation
Although Boston is not Denver, there are still some mountains (more accurately, glorified hills) to climb. 125 miles of immaculate hiking paths are located on a 7,000-acre area within a short distance from the city center. Near Boston, ascend Great Blue Hill mountain for an unrivaled perspective of the Hub’s hiking and skyline but be prepared to share the vista with throngs in the summer. Ski enthusiasts can come back in the winter for a little light slalom action.
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#2. Mount Misery
Although this region is the biggest conservation area in the green city of Lincoln, the mountain that bears its name is more of a manageable hill. You will undoubtedly see cute animals while you walk these pathways, including chipmunks, squirrels, birds, and deer. Views of the Fairhaven Bay and Sudbury River can be seen from Mount Misery’s summit. Make a day of it and visit both natural wonders while you’re out there, especially because Walden Pond in Concord, which served as the basis for Thoreau’s book Walden, is close.
#3. Wachusett Mountain State Reservation
Thanks to those memorable advertisements, we are all aware that Wachusett Mountain is a well-liked ski resort in the winter, but the biggest mountain close to Boston also provides trekking during the rest of the year. The neighboring property has 17 miles of trails, a raised bog, ponds, and streams, as well as the biggest tract of old-growth woodland in Massachusetts. Additionally, on a clear day, you can view the Boston skyline and Mt. Monadnock in New Hampshire from the mountain’s top, which is reached by the 2.6-mile Harrington Trail, which is a well-liked climb.
#4. Mount Katahdin
Katahdin, the highest mountain hiking near Boston in Maine, is a fabled location with blazing Appalachian routes where hikers start or complete their trips. According to The Broke Backpacker, it was recently recognized as the fourth finest hiking destination in the USA. Knife’s Edge Trail is only suitable for experienced hikers due to its extremely steep fall, but you can take baby steps by trying out one of the easier walks mentioned above first.
Furthermore, the Baxter State Park rangers, who look after this area’s ecology, tightly enforce a limit on the number of cars that can park on the reserve. If you don’t book a parking space in advance, Mount Katahdin can be desolate when you arrive.
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#5. Pitcher Mountain
Pitcher Mountain is for hiking near Boston and it’s one of the less difficult summit excursions in New England, with a 0.2-mile straight trail to the top. It is suitable for everyone if they have a decent pair of boots, a daypack, and minimal photographic equipment. Hikers often stop at the peak to watch the sunset since it has a 360-degree view. Since it is also dog-friendly and offers easy parking, there is no reason not to go.
#6. Heartbreak Reservation
Ten hiking routes in the 640-acre Heartbreak Reservation have lengths ranging from 0.1 to 1.7 kilometers. The location is fantastic for cross-country skiing, mountain biking, and hiking. Also, the seven rocky hills on the property, all of which are over 200 feet high, are climbable by visitors who want to see a breathtaking perspective over Boston, Southern New Hampshire, and Central Massachusetts.
Although the trek is short and simple, it is rough, so you can anticipate feeling a bit worn out afterward. Two freshwater lakes in the region provide supervised swimming during the summer, so bring your swimwear if you want to take a cool plunge after your climb. Breakheart Reservation offers free on-site parking and is open from dawn to dusk. In addition, it accepts dogs, which is a major plus.
#7. Mount Monadnock
If you’re coming from Boston, Mount Monadnock is a little out of the way, much like Pitcher Mountain. If driving by automobile, it will take hikers just under 2 hours to get there. Even if it is a little further away, the journey is definitely worthwhile. One of the top hiking spots in Southern New Hampshire is Mount Monadnock. The route to the top of this trek can be steep and rocky at points, making it a bit more difficult than some of the other hikes featured on the list, but the breathtaking view from the peak makes it all worthwhile.
The White Dot Trail, which is 1.9 miles long and requires a 3- to 4-hour round journey, is the quickest but steepest of the routes that go to the peak. The Pumpelly Trail is the longest direct route to the peak, with a 7-hour round-trip. You can find a path to meet your needs and ability level no matter what sort of hiker you are.
What Is Boston Known for?
Boston is best known for its renowned baked beans, Fenway Park, the Boston Marathon, and, of course, the bar from Cheers. However, if you look a little closer, you’ll discover a surprising amount of other things that make Boston one of the finest cities in America—and the whole world.
What Mountain to Climb Near Boston?
Wachusett Mountain State Reservation Because of those memorable advertisements, everyone is aware that Wachusett Mountain is a well-liked winter ski resort. However, the tallest mountain close to Boston also provides trekking opportunities during the rest of the year.
What is the Famous Trail in Boston?
The Freedom Trail is a special collection of historical markers, churches, burying grounds, meeting houses, parks, a ship, and museums that recount the tale of the American Revolution and other historical events.
What is the Easiest Mountain to Climb in Massachusetts?
The best beginner hike in Massachusetts can be found in Sugarloaf Mountain Park, which can be reached via Sugarloaf Road or Sunderland Street (Route 116). The fairly short climb grows steeper as you get closer to the peak. When you reach the top, you can climb the lookout tower for a commanding view of the Pioneer Valley and Connecticut River.