Day Trips from Boston
← All Boston day tripsDay Trips from Boston: Hiking Trails & Nature
Find the best hiking trails and nature destinations within driving distance of Boston, MA. From easy lakeside walks to challenging ridge hikes, these day trip trails deliver real scenery without the plane ticket. Drive times, ratings, and trail info included.
12 hiking trails near Boston
Mass Audubon's Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary
Topsfield, MA 01983
Just 38 min from Boston, rated 4.9 stars by 1,156 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Rocky Woods
Medfield, MA 02052
Just 35 min from Boston, rated 4.8 stars by 327 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Crawford Notch State Park
Hart's Location, NH 03812
Just 2 hrs 36 min from Boston, rated 4.8 stars by 1,954 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Campbell Falls State Park
Spaulding Rd, Norfolk
Just 2 hrs 35 min from Boston, rated 4.8 stars by 293 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Presumpscot River Preserve
Portland, ME 04103
Just 1 hr 50 min from Boston, rated 4.8 stars by 228 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Rocky Woods
MA 02052, USA
Just 35 min from Boston, rated 4.8 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Borderland State Park
North Easton, MA 02356
Just 40 min from Boston, rated 4.8 stars by 1,230 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Brook Walk (Waterfalls) – Castle In The Clouds Conservation Area
Moultonborough, NH 03254
Just 2 hrs 8 min from Boston, rated 4.8 stars by 141 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Purgatory Chasm State Reservation
Sutton, MA 01590
Just 53 min from Boston, rated 4.8 stars by 2,874 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Moore State Park
Paxton, MA 01612
Just 1 hr 11 min from Boston, rated 4.8 stars by 919 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Rocky Narrows
Sherborn, MA 01770
Just 40 min from Boston, rated 4.7 stars by 123 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge
Sudbury, MA 01776
Just 40 min from Boston, rated 4.7 stars by 679 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Trails Day Trips from Boston
What are the best hiking trails near Boston, MA?
The best hikes near Boston range from easy nature preserve loops to challenging state park trails with waterfalls, overlooks, and canyon scenery. Check the cards above for top-rated options with real drive times.
Are there easy hikes near Boston?
Yes. Many state parks and nature preserves near Boston offer well-maintained, beginner-friendly trails under 3 miles. Look for "Nature" tagged destinations above for the most accessible options.
What should I bring on a day hike from Boston?
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. Most trails near Boston are well-marked but cell service can be spotty in state parks. Download trail maps before you leave and wear sturdy shoes.
When is the best time to hike near Boston?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best hiking weather and scenery near Boston. Fall foliage is spectacular at most destinations. Summer works but can be hot and buggy. Winter hiking is possible at many parks with proper gear.
Don't know where to go?
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