Long Pond Woods
Canonchet Road, Hopkinton
The very rocky, steep trails at Long Pond Woods are not for the very young or inexperienced hikers. You will, at times, have to use your hands to maintain your balance, and this hike will take longer than you expect. But huge rock outcroppings, majestic hemlock trees, and spectacular views more than make up for all of the huffing and puffing you’ll do along the way. The view of Long Pond is one of the most scenic in the state and was actually featured in the movie Moonrise Kingdom. Although no hunting is allowed on any Audubon refuge, don’t be surprised if you hear gunshots during the hunting season. Hunting is allowed in the state land that abuts the refuge, but the trails do not go near these areas..
Length: 2.2 miles (you can shorten this hike by turning around at any point)
Difficulty: very challenging for kids
Dogs: to protect the fragile ecology of the refuge, please leave your dogs at home
Click here for an extensive list of guidelines for hiking with kids.
Click here to visit the Long Pond Woods website.