Wachusett Mountain State Reservation

345 Mountain Rd, Princeton, MA 01541, USA

Address:	345 Mountain Rd, Princeton, MA 01541, USA
Phone:	+1 978-464-2987
Site:	mass.gov
Rating:	4.6

Location

Photos 100

Reviews 19

Ron Wisenski

Just a great little mountain. Trails are well marked, picnic areas are clean, dogs are leashed or well behaved, LOTS of trails, other hikers are friendly and will help guide you if lost. Its a mountain so no real flat walking or hiking, but there are trails and roads for all levels. Theres a tower at the summit you can go up partially. Great views from the top, on a clear day you can see Mt Monadnock NH, Boston and more... few restrooms or Porta potties.... not always on the best condition but... well you are outdoors on a mountain so just be discreet if you cant handle the facilities. Wife and I have hiked this mountain a couple times a week since 2004, unless ski area is open (many hiking trails close in winter).

A Private User

Wachusett isnt just for skiing. There are extensive hiking trails around the mountain that pass through the largest expanse of old growth forest in Massachusetts east of the Connecticutt River (and maybe east of the Berkshires). The trails are well maintained and range from long, winding ones that climb fairly slowly to the Pine Hill Trail, the shortest and steepest trail on the mountain. Most people can do the Pine Hill in under 30 minutes, and experienced hikers can do it in 20 or less. This is the highest mountain in Massachusetts east of the Berkshires and has a commanding view of the surrounding countryside. Mt. Monadnock stands on the horizon about 30 miles to the north, Boston is obvious to the east on a clear day.

Allen Parsons

Scenic and woodsy retreat, with a network of well-maintained trails leading up to the summit, all of them requiring at least moderate exertion. You can also drive (or walk) up a paved road to the top, with numerous scenic vistas along the way. Remarkably little to do at the summit, once the site of a splendid hotel (of which no trace remains). An unimpressive observation deck that shares space with an erector-set tower is about it. Its always awe-inspiring, though, to gaze across miles and miles of Central Mass woodlands. On a clear day, you can see the Boston skyline, 45 miles away.

Todd Maynard

One of the greatest vies in New England. On a clear day, you can see the see the gold dome of the Statehouse in Boston to the east, and Mt. Monadnock and the White Mountains to the North. Many trail options for hiking the mountain, or drive up the Mountain Rd. At the peak there is an elevated 360 degree platform offering seemingly endless views in every direction. It was great fun observing a group of birdwatchers track the seasonal hawk and falcon migrations.

Remy Tankel

If youre looking for some exercise, take a joke (pun intended) up one of Wachusett Mountains many trails. No matter your age or athletic ability, there is a trail for you. The climb is worth the effort. The view from top is beautiful, especially from the observation tower. Differently abled or just dont feel a climb? You can drive to the top instead. The observation tower is also handicapped accessible. Bring some food and have a picnic!

Greg Dumas

This is one of my favorite state parks in the region. There are many trails of various hiking difficultly, and even a paved path up the mountain, so those with mobility difficulties can still enjoy the views from the top. The trails are clean of trash and other debris, and well labeled with signs. I have been going here since I was a child, and plan to keep coming so long as I am able.

Katya Maiser

I lived in the white mountains for a while and am an avid hiker. To call this a mountain is a bit of a stretch but .... its a nice local bump where you can tie together a few miles on a variety of trails or take a quick 30 minutes to summit the "peak". Trails are well traveled and nicely maintained, and there is a pretty good variety of terrain that you can cover in a day.

BEAU LEBOUEF

This is a great place to go hiking. I have tried several moderate to difficult trails. The trails are very well marked and very well-kept. There are pretty nice views from the summit but youre not really above the Treeline. I usually hike balancing Rock Trail to Old Indian Trail from the ski area parking. Its about two miles up and two miles back.

Rob Cote

Its a great place to hike when its not ski season. It can be rather busy on the top on some days, but certain trails can be very quite. Just look out for stupid people with off-leash dogs, even though its clearly marked a lot of people still do it, and think yelling "Its okay, my dogs friendly" as its charging at you barking.

Tollan Renner

A short climb through the woods will bring you to the open summit with its 360-degree observation deck and view of distant Boston. Driving up is also an option. While its close to New Englands largest city, much bigger and better hikes exist to the north in New Hampshires White Mountains or in other parts of the Appalachians.

Adam Mickey

Nice place for a decent medium hike. Did 2.5 mile or so loop in about 2 hours with some inexperienced hikers with us. Decent revelation changes make for challenging portions but easy to take it slow and not get to burnt out if you dont hike much. Pay attention to revelation changes on the trail map before choosing a trail.

Thai Truong

June, its hot and dry here on a sunny day. There are various trails here great for hiking and trail running. Parking is plentiful during the summer time and can be quite dusty as vehicles drive in. The North Face hold trail running races here as part of their Endurance Challenge Series.

John Maconi

Very good hiking trails for every level. If you find them too easy.....you can increase the difficulty level by summitting multiple times, increasing your pace, or carrying extra weight (ex. a 25-50 lb. Wreck Bag). You can see Boston and Mt. Monadnock from the top, too.

Joseph Saul

Place is beautiful but lack of signage for parking and where you Must pay is ridiculous I went into the visitor center for 3 min to use the rest room and got a ticket. ... no parking designation signs no one to tell you you need to pay just a ticket

Collin Edington

The closest real mountain to Boston, but the trails are pretty limited and wont provide much of a challenge to seasoned skiers. Overpriced for what you get and the terrain park costs an extra $5, so you feel like theyre trying to squeeze you for money.

Eric S. Johansson

Theres a lovely network of hiking trails all over the mountain. Some of the woods are pretty isolated. Not so heavily trafficked that you cant feel alone or be alone but theres always someone nearby unless youre hiking after Dark

Abby Ericson

Great park with lots of hiking trails! There are trails for all levels here! Some trailheads start in lots that are pay to park. Beautiful views from the top and a tower that you can climb up to the base of and sit and look out.

Jinsong Huang

I have been here skiing a couple of times and this was the first time for me to hike. Parking was easy enough. I enjoyed the hike up to the summit. The trails were easy and scenery was excellent. Ill definitely go back again.

Jenelle Pope

Excellent small mountain for a quick hike or tune up for a larger hike. Views of Boston and the White Mountains and Monadnock on a clear day. Dogs do need to be leashed. Trails are good for snowshoeing and using spikes