12 Healthy Places To Walk And Hike In MA: See The List

Patch has put together a list of 12 of the best routes to explore across the Bay State.

By Jessie Castellano, Patch Staff

Aug 13, 2026 12:30 PM EDT

Patch has put together a list of 12 of the best routes to explore across Massachusetts, including paved paths, accessible trails and moderate hikes. (Renee Schiavone/Patch)

MASSACHUSETTS, MA — Across the state, there are plenty of ways to stay healthy and active through walking and hiking, from easy pondside loops to longer woodland routes.

Patch has put together a list of 12 of the best routes to explore across Massachusetts, including paved paths, accessible trails and moderate hikes.

Cutler Park, Needham and Dedham: The easy Kendrick Pond Loop covers 1.25 miles.
Neponset River Greenway, Boston and Milton: This easy 2-mile route offers an urban alternative to a woodland hike.
Quinsigamond State Park, Worcester: The Lake Park Walking Trail is an easy 1-mile route.
Hopkinton State Park, Hopkinton: The 1.5-mile self-guided trail is rated moderate.
Blackstone River and Canal Heritage State Park, Uxbridge: The Blackstone Canal Towpath Trail is an easy 1-mile walk.
Mount Tom State Reservation, Holyoke: The easy Bray Loop Trail covers 1.6 miles.
Mount Greylock State Reservation, Lanesborough: The Bradley Farm Loop Trail is an easy 1.8-mile hike beginning near the visitor center.
Ashuwillticook Rail Trail, Lanesborough, Cheshire and Adams: The paved, accessible trail runs 11 miles, allowing walkers to choose their own turnaround point.
Harold Parker State Forest, North Andover: The accessible trail at Berry Pond is an easy 1-mile route.
Borderland State Park, North Easton: The Pond Walk is an easy 1.5-mile route. Longer walks are also available within the park.
Horseneck Beach State Reservation, Westport: Beach Road provides an easy, paved and accessible 2-mile walk.
Nickerson State Park, Brewster: The 1.5-mile Ober Trail is rated moderate.

The Department of Conservation and Recreation maintains more than 70 Healthy Heart Trails in state parks from the Berkshires to Cape Cod. The marked routes range from easy to moderate, with many measuring between 1 and 2 miles.

"Trails connect people – to nature, to their communities and to opportunities for recreation, wellness, and exploration across Massachusetts," said DCR Commissioner Nicole LaChapelle in a statement earlier this year. "From coastal paths and historic corridors to rail trails, riverfront greenways and conservation landscapes, these spaces highlight some of our state's most remarkable natural and cultural assets and support both everyday recreation and long-term community well-being."

Summer walkers should bring water and consider scheduling outings during the morning or evening. State health officials recommend limiting outdoor activity during the hottest hours, generally 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

DCR also reported high tick activity across Massachusetts in 2026. The agency recommends using approved repellent, wearing protective clothing and checking people and pets for ticks after spending time outdoors.