Day Trips from Waltham
← All Waltham day tripsDay Trips from Waltham: Hiking Trails & Nature
Find the best hiking trails and nature destinations within driving distance of Waltham, 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 Waltham
Mass Audubon's Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary
Topsfield, MA 01983
Just 42 min from Waltham, 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.
Brook Walk (Waterfalls) – Castle In The Clouds Conservation Area
Moultonborough, NH 03254
Just 2 hrs 12 min from Waltham, 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.
Moore State Park
Paxton, MA 01612
Just 1 hr 5 min from Waltham, 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 47 min from Waltham, 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.
Rocky Woods
Medfield, MA 02052
Just 27 min from Waltham, 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 40 min from Waltham, 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 29 min from Waltham, 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 55 min from Waltham, 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.
Doane's Falls
Royalston, MA 01368
Just 1 hr 18 min from Waltham, 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 57 min from Waltham, 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.
Middlesex Fells Reservation
Stoneham, MA 02180
Just 27 min from Waltham, 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.
Mount Holyoke Range State Park
Amherst, MA 01002
Just 1 hr 32 min from Waltham, rated 4.7 stars by 719 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 Waltham
What are the best hiking trails near Waltham, MA?
The best hikes near Waltham 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 Waltham?
Yes. Many state parks and nature preserves near Waltham 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 Waltham?
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. Most trails near Waltham 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 Waltham?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best hiking weather and scenery near Waltham. 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