TOP 30 Nature reserves access in Massachusetts

Monument Mountain Reservation is a park and tourist attraction located in Great Barrington, Massachusetts, United States. From the 1,642-foot summit of this popular peak, visitors can gaze across the splendor of the Housatonic River Valley. The mountain has been sacred to the Mohican people and their ancestors since ancient times, with stone offerings imbued with prayers left on the mountain creating the "monument" for which it is named. The original monument was destroyed by white residents after the Mohicans were dispossessed, but was later recreated near the Mohican Monument Trail. Monument Mountain has long inspired works of art and literature, with authors such as William Cullen Bryant, Nathaniel Hawthorne, and Herman Melville finding motivation for their works on the mountain. Today, more than 20,000 hikers ascend to its summit, Peeskawso Peak, each year. Three trails offer scenic ways to explore the mountain's pale quartzite geology and views out to Mount Greylock and the Catskill Mountains.

Monument Mountain Reservation Parking is a convenient parking area located at 546 Stockbridge Road in Great Barrington, Massachusetts. This parking facility serves visitors to Monument Mountain Reservation, a beautiful park known for its stunning views and hiking trails. Whether you're looking to explore the natural beauty of the Berkshires or simply need a place to park while enjoying the outdoors, Monument Mountain Reservation Parking provides easy access to this popular destination. With ample parking spaces and a convenient location, this institution is the perfect starting point for your outdoor adventure.

Located at 138 Butler Road in Monson, Massachusetts, the Peaked Mountain Reservation is a stunning park and tourist attraction that offers visitors the chance to explore a former working forest and trek to a summit with panoramic views. The hike to the summit is strenuous but well worth the effort, as the 1,227-foot peak offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, including Mount Wachusett and Vermont's Green Mountains. The reservation is home to a variety of wildlife, including songbirds, turkey vultures, and beavers, making it a great destination for nature lovers. Trails lead through quiet woods and past Lunden Pond, where visitors can catch a glimpse of the local wildlife. The reservation is also home to remains of a 19th-century charcoal operation, adding an interesting historical element to the area.

Field Farm Reservation is a park and tourist attraction located at 554 Sloan Road, Williamstown, Massachusetts, United States. It is known as Williamstown’s favorite authentic mid-century modern B&B and has been rated #1 Bed & Breakfast in Williamstown, MA by Tripadvisor. The institution offers a unique experience with two Modernist homes, including a bed & breakfast, and over 300 acres of open fields, woods, and wetlands with four miles of footpaths. Guests can enjoy a peaceful getaway vacation in the Berkshires or explore beautiful sculptures and architecture at Field Farm. The Guest House at Field Farm is an architectural gem offering authentic mid-century-modern accommodations with stunning views of Mt. Greylock. The property also features period artwork and thirteen sculptures in the surrounding gardens. Visitors can explore the property or stay in The Folly, a three-bedroom guest cottage designed by modernist architect Ulrich Franzen in 1965. Field Farm offers special winter discounts for guests staying between November 20, 2023, and March 11, 2024. The institution provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing on its 320-acre property. Guests can also enjoy hiking on more than four miles of trails with scenic views of Mount Greylock. The property is home to a variety of wildlife, including white-tail deer, coyotes, bobcats, beavers, turtles, and various bird species. The Guest House at Field Farm offers six spacious and finely appointed rooms with mountain views, although the facility is not wheelchair accessible. Visitors can use the electric car charger for overnight guests staying at the Field Farm Inn. The property also hosts private events and groups, and guests are encouraged to take a photo of the map or download a trail map before heading out. Field Farm is part of The Trustees, an organization dedicated to preserving and protecting Massachusetts’ special places. The institution offers a unique blend of history, architecture, design, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for a weekend trip or a cozy inn stay.

Located at 500 Walk Hill Street in Boston, Massachusetts, Mass Audubon's Boston Nature Center and Wildlife Sanctuary is a community nature center and wildlife sanctuary that offers visitors the chance to explore meadows, woods, and wetlands on its trails. With over 150 species of birds, 40 species of butterflies, and more than 350 species of plants, this sanctuary is a haven for nature lovers. The Boston Nature Center and Wildlife Sanctuary sits on land that was once occupied by the Boston State Hospital, offering a unique blend of history and natural beauty. The institution is dedicated to projects that focus on fighting climate change, providing healthy food, and ensuring equitable access to nature for all.

Blue Hills Reservation is a stunning 7,000-acre park located in Milton, Massachusetts. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a diverse range of activities including hiking, biking, picnicking, and birdwatching. With over 125 miles of trails, stunning vistas, and serene ponds, Blue Hills Reservation is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The park is easily accessible from Boston and provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, Blue Hills Reservation has something for everyone to enjoy.

Located in Plymouth, Massachusetts, the Lyman Reserve is a picturesque park and tourist attraction that offers visitors the opportunity to explore winding trails that lead from cranberry bogs and woods to a sandy beach at Buttermilk Bay. The reserve is home to the last remaining native sea-run brook trout fisheries in the eastern United States, with Red Brook flowing from White Island Pond to Buttermilk Bay. Visitors can enjoy catch-and-release fishing along the stream, as well as hiking trails that wind through freshwater wetlands, pine barrens, and a sandy beach. The one-and-a-half-mile loop trail provides a scenic journey through the reserve, with views of Buttermilk Bay and the Cape Cod Canal vertical lift railroad bridge.

Hapgood Natural Aquifer Public Spring is a hidden gem located at 624 Hapgood Street in Athol, Massachusetts. This park-like institution can be found at the end of a concrete headwall, with limited parking available. The spring has been a local favorite for over 100 years, known for its ice-cold water and consistent flows. Visitors are advised to use a Life Straw to ensure clean and safe drinking water. Surrounded by a quiet pine forest, this beautiful spring is a popular spot for locals to gather and enjoy the refreshing water. To find this hidden oasis, follow Route 122 North to Route 148, then turn left on Crocker Nye Road. Don't miss out on this peaceful and rejuvenating natural spring experience.

Doane's Falls Reservation is a stunning park and tourist attraction located on Doane Hill Road in Royalston, Massachusetts, United States. Descend a short stream-side trail and experience a raucous series of plunging falls as Lawrence Brook tumbles from under a picturesque stone bridge in a frothy frenzy to Tully Lake. The reservation is named after Amos Doane, who owned land in Royalston in the early 19th century and built a mill above the falls. The riverbank is a sensitive ecosystem, so please stay on marked trails to protect the plants and soil. Swimming, diving, and wading are prohibited due to safety concerns. A half-mile trail offers great views of Lawrence Brook as it drops and swirls over boulders and granite slabs. Coddings Meadow, a quiet clearing upstream, is a perfect launch site for canoeists and kayakers. The Trustees also manages the Tully Lake Campground nearby. Access the reservation from Route 2, Exit 77, and follow the signs to the parking area.

Chesterfield Gorge Reservation is a stunning park and tourist attraction located in Chesterfield, Massachusetts, United States. Visitors can gaze upon an imposing gorge carved by a National Wild and Scenic River, with great fishing, hiking, and biking options just downstream. The dramatic rock canyon, formed by the East Branch of the Westfield River, features seventy-foot walls and offers a popular spot for catch-and-release fly fishing. The half-mile trail along the cliff tops provides wonderful views of the gorge, river, and surrounding forest, which is home to bears, bobcats, and turkeys. Access to the river through the gorge is prohibited due to dangerous water conditions. The property also features the stone abutments of a historic bridge that spanned the river around 1762. The Trustees, who manage roughly 27,000 acres of protected land in Massachusetts, are devoted to seeking, protecting, and caring for ecologically significant environments. Visitors are encouraged to take part in The Trustees Hiking Challenge and explore all the waterfalls and streams the organization offers. Additional land for Chesterfield Gorge Reservation was acquired through donations and purchases in the 20th century. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, or simply enjoy the natural beauty, Chesterfield Gorge Reservation offers a unique outdoor experience for all.

Located at 34 Prospect Road in Andover, Massachusetts, the Charles W. Ward Reservation is a stunning park and tourist attraction that spans almost 15 miles of trails. Visitors can climb a hill for incredible views of the Merrimack Valley and the Boston skyline. The reservation boasts a wide variety of ecological habitats, including oak-pine woodlands, grasslands, orchards, oak barrens, a quaking bog, and beaver wetlands. The property is made up of more than 40 distinct parcels across three hills - Shrub, Boston, and Holt. Holt Hill, the highest point in Essex County, is home to the "Solstice Stones" which mark the sunset on the longest and shortest days of the year. Pine Hole Pond features a boardwalk trail through a quaking bog with unique plant species like orchids and pitcher plants.

DNRT Slocum's River Reserve is a scenic park located on Barneys Joy Road in Dartmouth, Massachusetts, United States. This beautiful reserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore nature and enjoy the peaceful surroundings along the Slocum's River. With walking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the river, DNRT Slocum's River Reserve is the perfect place to relax and unwind in the great outdoors. Whether you're looking to go for a hike, have a family picnic, or simply enjoy the beauty of nature, this park has something for everyone. Come visit DNRT Slocum's River Reserve and experience the serenity and natural beauty of this hidden gem in Dartmouth.

Swift River Reservation is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located on Barre Road in Petersham, Massachusetts, United States. This stunning landscape, once used for Colonial-era farming, has now returned to its natural state of forest, swamp, fields, and uplands, with nine miles of trails and old roads for visitors to explore. The East Branch of the Swift River, the largest tributary of the Quabbin Reservoir, flows through three unique tracts of land at Swift River Reservation. The diverse topography and flora support a wide variety of wildlife, including deer, beaver, raccoon, porcupine, bear, bobcat, and coyote, as well as numerous songbirds, owls, and birds of prey. The scenic Swift River, lined with majestic old pine and hemlock trees, is one of the most beautiful streams in Massachusetts.

West Island State Reservation is a stunning park located in Fairhaven, Massachusetts, United States. This coastal gem offers visitors a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its sandy beaches, scenic walking trails, and picturesque views of Buzzards Bay, West Island State Reservation is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach, go for a hike, or simply enjoy a peaceful picnic by the water, this park has something for everyone. Come and explore the beauty of West Island State Reservation today!

Nasketucket Bay State Reservation is a stunning park and tourist attraction located on Beach Road in Mattapoisett, Massachusetts, United States. This beautiful coastal sanctuary offers visitors a chance to explore sandy beaches, salt marshes, and scenic trails along the bay. With opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, picnicking, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area, Nasketucket Bay State Reservation is a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Come and experience the tranquility and charm of this hidden gem on the Massachusetts coast.

Holmes Reservation, located on Court Street in Plymouth, Massachusetts, is a picturesque park and tourist attraction offering a glimpse into the history of the area. This open, grassy field was once a famous “Muster Ground” where Plymouth farmers in the militia would gather to practice shooting muskets and marching in formation before the Revolutionary War. Today, Holmes Reservation is a treasured oasis of open space in the city center, with stunning views of Plymouth Harbor and Duxbury Beach. Visitors can explore the nearby woodland, Old Colony Rail Trail, and beach, making it a great spot for families and nature enthusiasts.

Crane Beach at Trustees of Reservations is a stunning tourist attraction located in Ipswich, Massachusetts, United States. This beach offers a breathtaking seaside experience, with trails and boardwalks winding through a landscape of sand dunes and salt marshes. Visited by over 350,000 people annually, Crane Beach is a national model for balancing conservation of natural habitats with public recreation. Home to diverse wildlife, including the threatened piping plover, Crane Beach is known for its successful shorebird protection program. Visitors are asked to respect nesting areas and avoid disturbing the birds. The institution offers discounts to members and a variety of amenities such as lifeguard coverage, bathhouse facilities, and a beach store.

The Trustees of Reservations is a park located at 330 Long Point Road in West Tisbury, Massachusetts, United States. This institution is dedicated to protecting and sharing the scenic, historic, and ecological treasures of Massachusetts for the benefit of the community. With a focus on nature and culture, the Trustees offer a variety of activities and programs for visitors to enjoy, from trails and gardens to beaches and historic sites. Visitors can explore the beautiful landscapes of West Tisbury, Martha's Vineyard, and Cape Cod & The Islands, with opportunities to hike, camp, and learn about the region's history. The institution also offers events such as the Daffodil and Tulip Festival, as well as summer camps for children.

Lowell Holly Reservation is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located on South Sandwich Road in Mashpee, Massachusetts, United States. This 135-acre reservation is a stunning peninsula adorned with groves of American holly trees, a rare sight along the New England coast. Named after its donor, Abbott Lawrence Lowell, the reservation also features plantings of rosebay and catawba rhododendrons, reflecting Lowell's horticultural tastes. Wilfred Wheeler, Sr., a former Massachusetts Secretary of Agriculture, further enhanced the landscape by planting 50 varieties of American holly. Visitors can wander along carriage roads and foot trails that meander through the reservation's old-growth forest, passing by Mashpee and Wakeby Ponds which offer fishing opportunities. The reservation also boasts a swimming beach, although there is no lifeguard on duty. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, limited seasonal beach parking is available Wednesday through Sunday. Year-round access is also available with a smaller parking area for six cars.

Noon Hill Reservation in Medfield, Massachusetts, is a picturesque park and tourist attraction offering visitors the chance to ascend the hill for stunning treetop vistas, explore around Holt Pond, and follow trails that lead through adjacent Trustees reservations to the Charles River. The 370-foot hill is gently elevated above the landscape, with forested slopes and ridges filled with pine, beech, birch, and hemlock trees. In spring, the forest floor is covered with wildflowers, creating a beautiful sight. Holt Pond, created in 1764, offers a serene setting surrounded by stonewall-enclosed pastures that have been reclaimed by the woods over the years. The reservation features four and a half miles of moderate to strenuous trails, part of the Bay Circuit Trail, leading to sweeping views of the rolling hills of Walpole and Norfolk, including Gillette Stadium. The property is managed in conjunction with adjacent conservation land owned by the Town of Medfield. Visitors can access Noon Hill Reservation from Noon Hill Road in Medfield, with parking available for 15 cars. The Shattuck Reservation is located across Causeway Street from Noon Hill.

The Beach Access Point at 62 Reservation Terrace in Newburyport, Massachusetts, is a picturesque park located along the coast of the United States. This institution provides a convenient and easy access point to the beautiful sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can enjoy a day of sunbathing, swimming, picnicking, and beachcombing at this tranquil and scenic location. Whether you are looking to relax and unwind or engage in water sports and outdoor activities, the Beach Access Point offers something for everyone to enjoy. Come and experience the natural beauty and serenity of this coastal gem in Newburyport.

Lynn Shore Reservation is a scenic park located in Lynn, Massachusetts, United States. This beautiful waterfront park offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Nahant Bay, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy walking, jogging, picnicking, and birdwatching along the park's well-maintained trails and grassy areas. With its sandy beaches and peaceful atmosphere, Lynn Shore Reservation is the perfect place to relax and unwind while taking in the natural beauty of the Massachusetts coast.

Masquetuck Reservation Parking is a convenient parking facility located on Quaise Pasture Road in Nantucket, Massachusetts. This parking lot provides easy access for visitors to explore the beautiful Masquetuck Reservation, a tranquil natural area with scenic views and hiking trails. Whether you're looking to enjoy a peaceful walk in nature or simply need a place to park your vehicle while exploring the area, Masquetuck Reservation Parking is the perfect spot. With its convenient location and ample parking spaces, this institution is a great starting point for your outdoor adventures in Nantucket.

Welcome to the Appalachian Trail Access Point Trailhead Parking at Sheffield-Egremont Rd, located in the picturesque New Marlboro, Massachusetts. As a key access point to the renowned Appalachian National Scenic Trail, this park serves as a gateway to one of the most cherished hiking experiences in the United States. Since 1925, our mission has been to oversee the management and conservation of this iconic trail, ensuring its beauty and accessibility for generations to come. Our efforts have led to the protection of breathtaking viewsheds, including the popular McAfee Knob. By becoming a member, you can enjoy exclusive benefits such as an oversized Appalachian Trail strip map, a subscription to our membership magazine, A.T. Journeys, and discounts at the Ultimate A.T. Store®. Members also receive invitations to exclusive events and special volunteer opportunities.

Monument Mountain Reservation/Flag Rock Trailhead Location: Great Barrington, Massachusetts 01230, United States Type: Park

Welcome to The Trustees of Reservations, a haven for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike, located at 1 Sergeant Street, Stockbridge, Massachusetts. As a distinguished museum and tourist attraction, we are dedicated to preserving the exceptional scenic, historic, and ecological treasures of Massachusetts. Our mission is to protect the places you love for their trails, history, gardens, and beaches, recognizing that nature and culture enrich our lives and soothe the soul. Explore the beauty of Massachusetts through our diverse offerings, from historic estates to breathtaking natural landscapes. Immerse yourself in our scenic trails, picturesque gardens, and serene beaches that promise a rejuvenating experience. For those interested in history, delve into the rich past of the region with guided tours and educational programs.

Welcome to the Mt. Hunger Trailhead at Konkapot Ridge Reserve, a hidden gem nestled in the scenic beauty of Monterey, Massachusetts. Located at the heart of the Berkshires, this serene park offers a perfect escape into nature for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Whether you're an avid hiker or simply looking to enjoy a peaceful stroll, our well-maintained trails provide an ideal setting for all skill levels. As you traverse the paths, immerse yourself in the breathtaking vistas and diverse wildlife that define the Konkapot Ridge Reserve. Open year-round, the park invites visitors to experience the changing seasons, each offering its unique charm. With ample parking and easy access, Mt. Hunger Trailhead is your gateway to adventure and tranquility. Come and explore the natural beauty of Monterey, Massachusetts, at the Mt. Hunger Trailhead.

Welcome to Jug End State Reservation and Wildlife Management Area Parking, your convenient gateway to exploring the natural beauty of New Marlboro, Massachusetts. Nestled in the serene landscapes of the Berkshires, our parking facility offers easy access to the pristine trails and breathtaking vistas of Jug End State Reservation. Whether you're here for a day of hiking, bird watching, or simply to immerse yourself in nature, our well-maintained parking area provides a hassle-free start to your adventure. Located at the heart of the reservation, our parking space ensures you spend more time enjoying the great outdoors and less time worrying about logistics. Visit us at New Marlboro, MA 01230, and embark on your next outdoor journey with ease.

Welcome to Elm Bank Reservation Trails Parking, your convenient and accessible parking solution located in the picturesque town of Dover, Massachusetts. Nestled at the heart of the stunning Elm Bank Reservation, our facility offers ample parking spaces for visitors eager to explore the natural beauty and recreational opportunities of this beloved area. Whether you're planning a leisurely hike, a peaceful picnic, or a day of adventure on the trails, Elm Bank Reservation Trails Parking provides a safe and secure location to leave your vehicle. Our parking area is designed to accommodate vehicles of all sizes and is just a short walk from the reservation's main attractions, ensuring you're never far from the action.

Welcome to Beaver Brook Reservation Picnic Area Parking, conveniently located at 531 Waverley Oaks Road, Waltham, Massachusetts. Nestled in the heart of the scenic Beaver Brook Reservation, our parking facility offers easy access to one of the area's most cherished natural retreats. Whether you're planning a leisurely picnic, a serene hike, or a day of outdoor fun with family and friends, our parking area provides the perfect starting point for your adventure. Our spacious and well-maintained lot ensures a hassle-free experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying the beautiful surroundings. Visit us for a seamless parking experience as you explore the lush landscapes and tranquil beauty of Beaver Brook Reservation.