Day Trips from Lowell
← All Lowell day tripsDay Trips from Lowell: Hiking Trails & Nature
Find the best hiking trails and nature destinations within driving distance of Lowell, 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 Lowell
Mass Audubon's Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary
Topsfield, MA 01983
Just 46 min from Lowell, 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 45 min from Lowell, 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.
Monument Mountain
Great Barrington, MA 01230
Just 2 hrs 14 min from Lowell, rated 4.8 stars by 368 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 23 min from Lowell, 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 40 min from Lowell, 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 41 min from Lowell, 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 45 min from Lowell, 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.
Doane's Falls
Royalston, MA 01368
Just 1 hr 7 min from Lowell, rated 4.8 stars by 428 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.
Mowry Conservation Area
Smithfield, RI 02917
Just 1 hr 15 min from Lowell, rated 4.8 stars by 251 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 1 hr 55 min from Lowell, 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 56 min from Lowell, 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.
Franconia Notch State Park
Daniel Webster Hwy, Lincoln
Just 1 hr 49 min from Lowell, rated 4.8 stars by 7,748 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 Lowell
What are the best hiking trails near Lowell, MA?
The best hikes near Lowell 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 Lowell?
Yes. Many state parks and nature preserves near Lowell 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 Lowell?
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. Most trails near Lowell 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 Lowell?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best hiking weather and scenery near Lowell. 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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