Ask anyone that knows me and avid hiker is not how they would describe me. In fact, prior to a couple months ago I can count on one hand the number of times I actually went on a hike. However now that being outside in nature away from people is one of the safest ways to socially distance ourselves, we find that hiking is the easiest way for us to get out of the house with Sophia and explore different reservations that are all so close to the city. I put together a list of 6 hiking trails that are all relatively close to the city, but once you are in the woods you feel like you are a world away!
- Blue Hills Reservation || This was actually the first trail that I ever went on. The biggest draw for me are the beautiful views of the city at some of the points and now that things are starting to open back up – I believe the observatory and small little area with indoor and outdoor animals may be open.
- Breakheart Reservation || Our neighbors told us about Breakheart and I’m so glad that they did. There’s a great pavilion with a big playground and so many great spots to sit and enjoy the lake views.
- Middlesex Fells Reservation || Probably my favorite trail that we have gone on is in the Fells. To me this was for true hikers, but I imagine most of these trails are great for tough hikes. However with a toddler we did okay. You can rent boats, fish and even let your dog off the leash in certain areas. The other draw is that it’s really close to the Stone Zoo. We also saw a ton of mountain bikers on our treks.
- Neponset River Reservation || If we had the time to walk the entire length of the river from Milton to Boston Harbor, we totally would. There’s a fun playground with a splash pad and a really cute bridge for the natural inlets and ponds in the area. We didn’t get to fully explore the trails, but we will do a bit more exploring in weekends to come.
- Nashoba Brook || This is one of the trails that’s on my list to check out sometime this summer because I absolutely love Nashoba Valley. We have gone many times during the fall to the winery and for apple & pumpkin picking. I don’t know why we have never thought to go in the Summer to hike the trails. From the photos I’ve seen, the brook that runs through on the trails is so beautiful.
- Mass Audubon Ipswitch Wildlife Sanctuary || This is another trail that we have yet to test out but it’s close to Crane Beach which is one of my favorite beaches in Massachusetts. It offers 12 miles of trails that take you through wetlands and other meadows. We wouldn’t be able to do the full 12 miles but this would be a fun day trip with a stop at the beach happening as well!
Do you find yourself going outdoors more? Are you a fan of hiking?
Do you find yourself going outdoors more? Are you a fan of hiking?
We have been going hiking almost every weekend since the weather got warmer! It really is so good for the soul. I bet y'all have some beautiful places to hike up in New England, we never really got a chance when we were living there!
Rosy Outlook
What fun and a perfect thing to do for social distancing! We love to hike, I would call ourselves moderate hikers, LOL!
Look at you hiking all over! I have definitely spent a lot more time outdoors since quarantine started. Though, we haven't ventured much outside of our neighborhood. The hiking trails are a further drive from where I live.
I'm glad you're enjoying your surroundings. It sounds so peaceful to be out in nature.
Such a great way to get in to nature and take a small break from the city! MA is a beautiful state!
I have never been much of a hiker either! But I did a trail run last fall and loved it. That makes me want to start doing it more. I think I’d enjoy it too.
How fun! I will definitely have to check these out next time we are near Boston! Sophia is getting so big!
<3 Shannon
Upbeat Soles
So fun! Love that there are so many trails around!
I can't wait to visit Boston!!
This is such a great list! I used to hate hiking before kids, but now I absolutely love it. My kids are hit or miss, but usually they roll with it haha
Such a great post to bookmark. You guys are too cute!
~Samantha
goldcoastgirlblog.com
It's so nice that you are still able to get out and do something while this pandemic is going on! And y'all look so cute in your athletic attire! :o)
Oh. my. GOSH. I have spent far too much time away from reading blogs – Sophia is growing up so fast – wow! So nice to finally get the time to read up (we are still on lockdown). Your hikes look great – so many to choose from. You get the best of both worlds with city surrounded by nature! I can't wait til lockdown ends. Looking forward to catching up – Joanne (the British ex-blogger)