Trails Program: Interactive Map
Touch anywhere on the map to zoom in on a portion of the map. Areas that contain trail information are highlighted in light red. When zoomed in, click and drag the map around within the frame to view other areas. Press the magnifying glass on the left to zoom out.
| W | here will the Blue Hills take you? |
|---|---|
| Explore the Blue Hills' 125 miles of trails and find what you're looking for! wander through shady woods on Little Blue Hills, climb rocky ledges to stunning views at Quincy Quarries or bring your family on a short stroll and enjoy a swim at Houghton's Pond.
We invite you to explore these pages - and then explore a new path, get a new perspective and have fun! Please share your own journey through the Blue Hills by writing about your hike, uploading a photo or leaving a comment. Let us know how this webpage can be more useful to you - and help introduce others to the Blue Hills by leaving your tips, photos and descriptions! For a full list of recommended trails, see below. |
How to Prepare
Reservation rangers recommend that you carry water (for longer hikes) and a trail map (always). Note that many trail intersections are numbered in the field with 4 digit marking system (four black numbers on a small white wooden marker. Example: [1141). These numbers are shown on the DCR trail map. Maps can be purchased for $2.00 on the front porch at Reservation Headquarters, 695 Hillside Street, Milton, next to the State Police Station, 1/4 mile north of Houghton's Pond. If directions are not listed, call the DCR Headquarters for clarification: 617-698-1802.
Disclaimer
Hike suggestions have come from many sources, including the Department of Conservation and Recreation, our members - and hopefully soon... you! While we have done our best to make sure the information is accurate, we cannot guarantee all information is accurate and up-to-date. Trails and markers change and our designations make assumptions that might not be right for you or your family. Please let us know any corrections - and please add your own thoughts on how our trails should be described. We hope you take these suggestions as a first step to exploring all the Blue Hills Reservation has to offer.
Full List of Trails
| Quincy Quarries | The whole family will enjoy picnicking on the grass, surrounded by colorful graffiti-covered cliffs. |
| Houghton's Pond Loop Yellow Dot | A short scenic hike around popular Houghton's Pond. |
| Little Blue Hill | Little Blue Hill offers a much shorter climb than Great Blue. |
| Rattlesnake Hill | For a short, eventful hike, follow the Green and Blue dots from Shea Rink. |
| Fowl Meadow | Easy flat stroll, great for kids of all ages. |
| Skyline Loop Blue Blazes | This popular loop trail crosses several summits offering panoramic views. |
| Hancock Hill | A wonderful summit view for those with limited time. |
| Wolcott Path/Border Path | A relatively level hike through beautiful woodlands. |
| Dark Hollow Loop Green Dot | This mostly level forested loop trail takes you through oak-pine woodlands. |
| Buck Hill Orange to Blue Blaze | The rocky summit of Buck Hill offers a stellar 360 degree view of the surrounding region and is an invigorating climb. |
| Buck Hill via Skyline | Those folks looking for a short family hike that is kid friendly, from preschoolers to seniors, would love this hour adventure. |
| Wolcott Path Green Dot Loop | This relatively level trail through large hardwood forests begins in the parking area,500 feet north of Trailside Museum. |
| Great Blue Hill | Thousands of hikers ascend Great Blue Hill each year to enjoy the fantastic view. |
| Chestnut Run | This seldom-used trail has a tremendous view over Unquity Road. |
| The Old 128 | “Most intriguing” trail is how an FBH member categorizes The Old 128. |
| Slide Notch Path | In spring or early summer, look for the waterfall on Slide Notch Path. |