Day Trips from New Bedford
← All New Bedford day tripsDay Trips from New Bedford: Hiking Trails & Nature
Find the best hiking trails and nature destinations within driving distance of New Bedford, 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 New Bedford
Mass Audubon's Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary
Topsfield, MA 01983
Just 1 hr 35 min from New Bedford, 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 1 hr 3 min from New Bedford, 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.
Borderland State Park
North Easton, MA 02356
Just 50 min from New Bedford, 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.
Mowry Conservation Area
Smithfield, RI 02917
Just 54 min from New Bedford, 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.
Moore State Park
Paxton, MA 01612
Just 1 hr 35 min from New Bedford, 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.
Purgatory Chasm State Reservation
Sutton, MA 01590
Just 1 hr 2 min from New Bedford, 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.
John H. Chafee Rome Point Preserve
North Kingstown, RI 02852
Just 53 min from New Bedford, rated 4.7 stars by 417 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.
DNRT Frank Knowles/Little River Reserve
Dartmouth, MA 02748
Just 20 min from New Bedford, rated 4.7 stars by 215 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 1 hr 24 min from New Bedford, 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.
World's End
Hingham, MA 02043
Just 1 hr 13 min from New Bedford, rated 4.7 stars by 1,583 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.
Middlesex Fells Reservation
Stoneham, MA 02180
Just 1 hr 14 min from New Bedford, rated 4.7 stars by 5,468 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 1 hr 11 min from New Bedford, 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Trails Day Trips from New Bedford
What are the best hiking trails near New Bedford, MA?
The best hikes near New Bedford 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 New Bedford?
Yes. Many state parks and nature preserves near New Bedford 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 New Bedford?
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. Most trails near New Bedford 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 New Bedford?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best hiking weather and scenery near New Bedford. 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?
Tell us your interests, budget, and how far you want to drive. We'll find the perfect trip for you.
Surprise me