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Blue HillsReservation

Blue Hills Reservation695 Hillside StreetMilton, MA 02186(617) 698-1802

2020 TRAIL MAP

Welcome to DCR’s Blue Hills Reservation

Stretching from Dedham to Quincy, and Milton to Randolph, the Blue Hills Reservation encompasses over 7,000 acres, providing the largest open space within 35 miles of Boston. More than 120 miles of trails weave through the natural fabric of forest and ponds, hilltops and wetlands. Hikers can count 22 hills in the Blue Hills chain with Great Blue Hill noted as the highest summit at 635 feet above sea level. Visitors may enjoy numerous outdoor activities including hiking, biking, swimming, skiing, and savoring nature in this four-season park.

About DCRThe Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ Department of

Conservation and Recreation (DCR) is steward to over 450,000 acres of forests, parks, greenways, trails, historic sites and landscapes, seashores, beaches, ponds, reservoirs, and watersheds. The DCR serves to protect, promote, and enhance our common wealth of natural, cultural, and recreational resources for the well-being of all; and to cooperate and partner with those who share this common purpose. To learn about DCR and discover more about the parks, programs, and recreational opportunities within Massachusetts state parks, please visit www.mass.gov/dcr or contact us at mass.parks@mass.gov .

MAP PR I NTED COU R T ES Y O F MA SS AUD UBON’S BLUE H ILLS TRA I LS I DE MU SEU M. A L L PR OC EED S FUND TH E

PR INT I NG O F ADDI T IO NAL BLUE H IL L S MA PS .

Roosevelt’s Tree ArmyIn 1933, in the midst of the Great Depression, President

Franklin D. Roosevelt announced the creation of an emer-gency conservation work program, which became known as the Civilian Conservation Corps or CCC. This program was designed to provide employment for many young men who were out of work, and to improve the country’s forest and recreational resources.

Here in the Blue Hills, the Civilian Conservation Corps lived and labored from 1933 to 1937, adding two stone obser-vation towers, ski runs at Great Blue Hill, miles of trails, and numerous other features to the reservation. Nature is rapidly overtaking the concrete foundations and remains of the CCC camp located east of Randolph Avenue, but the good works live on, a testament to sweat and stone.

quarried in the Blue Hills have been found at sites through-out Massachusetts. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts is named in honor of these first people of the hills.

Charles Eliot & the Parks SystemVisionary landscape architect Charles Eliot was a major

force behind the creation of the Blue Hills Reservation, one of the first acquisitions of the new Metropolitan Parks System in 1893. Eliot’s idea was to set aside beachfront by the bay, land along the Charles, Mystic, and Neponset Rivers, and high ground throughout the Boston metropolitan area. Today, this regional park system has grown statewide to include more than 450,000 acres of open space across Massachusetts, a legacy we must protect and preserve. Enjoy a panoramic view of the Boston skyline from the Eliot Memorial Observation Tower atop Great Blue Hill and offer thanks to one of the founding fathers of the Metropolitan Parks System, who “sought out hill, forest, shore for all to enjoy.”

The Faces and PlacesWith high vantage points, proximity to the Neponset

River, easy access to the coastline and harbor islands, and an abundance of year-round resources, the Blue Hills have been attracting people throughout the ages. Today, DCR’s Blue Hills Reservation is rich in both archaeological and historic resources. Interesting structures and other traces of our past include artifacts of the First People, cellar holes and fruit trees of early settlers, legacies of the granite industry at the Quincy quarries, and observation towers and trails built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Enriching the park are more than 50 prehistoric sites, 15 historic structures listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and a National Historic Landmark—the Blue Hills Meteorological Observatory.

The People of the Great HillsThe First People in this region called themselves the

Massachuseuk, which translates to “people living near the great hills.” The Massachuseuk people followed a way of life closely tied to the natural rhythms of the seasons. Small fam-ily groups moved within the Blue Hills and Neponset River area harvesting nuts and berries, cultivating corn, beans, and squash, and fishing and hunting among the bays, rivers, and uplands.

The Massachuseuk lived in balance with nature. Their seasonal movements meant that no single resource was overexploited. Their survival depended upon a keen knowl-edge of local flora and fauna and the changing environ-ment. Hornfels, a brown volcanic rock found in the Blue Hills, was crafted into tools. Artifacts made from materials

Wet and Wild Ponkapoag BogPonkapoag Bog, in the southwest section of the park, is a

unique and mysterious world. Neither solid land nor water, the bog is a realm in between. A quaking mat of leatherleaf, sheep laurel, and sphagnum mosses floats on the surface of the ancient peat. A wooden floating boardwalk at the north-west corner of Ponkapoag Pond allows safe access among the hummocks and hollows of this Atlantic white cedar bog.

Thousands of years ago, a glacier scooped out the pond and bog, which then filled with melted ice. Poor drainage and the growth of mosses, ericaceous plants, grasses, and sedges con-tribute to the acidic conditions. Look along the boardwalk for carnivorous pitcher plants and sundews, which have adapted to capture insects to supplement their diet in this sterile en-vironment. Please use care in this protected, sensitive bog by staying on the boardwalk.

Rocky HilltopsThe hilltops of the Blue Hills range offer sweeping views of

the Boston basin, the harbor, and beyond. These summits are the remains of ancient volcanoes, which erupted 440 million years ago and then collapsed. Hikers climbing Great Blue Hill on the red dot trail will trace ancient lava flows that poured out of the volcano and quickly cooled into small crystalline rock on the surface. Millions of years later, during the last ice age, a glacier scraped and polished the hilltops leaving only a thin layer of soil.

Scrub oak, pitch pine, and blueberry shrubs can tolerate the dry, acidic soils on the hilltops. In early spring and fall, watch for hawks, turkey vultures, and other birds riding the air currents, winging gracefully over the hilltops on their seasonal migration. Over 160 bird species may be seen in the Blue Hills during the year, including the eastern towhee and prairie warbler, which favor the brushy hilltops.

Our Changing ForestThe Blue Hills Reservation is endowed with a wide variety

of tree species, providing a unique green oasis within sight of the Boston skyline. Mature oaks, hickories, and eastern white pine abound throughout the Blue Hills, many over 100 years old. Fire-adapted pitch pine and scrub oak provide import-ant habitat for wildlife on our rocky summits. Today, trees face a number of threats including invasive species such as gypsy moths, which when combined with periodic drought conditions have caused some tree mortality. The strength of the Blue Hills forest includes its overall diversity, which can provide resilience from environmental pressures and help to support a green future for the next generation.

A World of NatureThe scenery before you is the product of a variety of forces.

Geology, climate, soil, fires, logging, and farming have all shaped the delicate harmony of land and life you see today. Trails traverse many habitats: rocky summits, upland and bottomland forests, meadows, swamp and pond edges, vernal pools, and bogs.

The reservation supports a rich variety of native plants and animals, including 13 species listed as endan-gered or threatened in Massachusetts. Among these are small and declining populations of timber rattlesnakes and northern copperheads, which are native to the Blue Hills and are bene-ficial for the ecosystem. These shy animals avoid people and do not bite

unless provoked. Conservation of these endangered animals is a high priority for both DCR and MassWildlife. They are protected from any harm or harassment under state law. Stay on trails, respect trail closures, keep pets leashed, and avoid any wildlife—including snakes—you may encounter.

A diversity of wildlife finds suitable habitat—food, water, shelter, and space—among the mix of trees, shrubs, and flowers of the reservation. The habitat and the season of the year play a large role in determining what you will observe as you walk the trails. Nature has its patterns. Note how plant and animal life change as you travel from the moist lowlands to the drier, wind-blown summits.

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Charles Eliot, c. 1892 (1859–1897)

“…crowded populations, if they would live in health and happiness, must have space for air, for light, for exercise, for rest, and for the enjoyment of that peaceful beauty of nature which…is so wonderfully refreshing to the tired souls of townspeople.”

—CH ARLES EL I OT

Report of the Board of Metropolitan Park Commissioners, January 1893

Ski (Cross-country) or snowshoe on trails throughout the reservation when there is sufficient snow cover. A free Cross-Country Ski Routes brochure is available at the Reservation Headquarters.

Ski (Downhill) or snowboard at the William F. Rogers Ski Area on Great Blue Hill on Route 138 in Canton. Equipment rentals and instructional classes are available. Visit www.bluehillsboston.com or call (781) 828-5070.

Swim at Houghton’s Pond beach with DCR lifeguard supervision during the summer season. The pond and picnic areas are very popular, especially on weekends. Parking is limited; ride sharing is encouraged. Seasonal restrooms, outdoor showers, and changing stalls are provided.

TrailWatch is an all-volunteer organization of concerned recreational trail users whose goal is to promote safe and cooperative trail use by acting as an educational liaison between reservation managers and the public. For information, call (617) 698-1802.

YMCA Camp at Ponkapoag Outdoor Center hosts a children’s summer camp located near Ponkapoag Bog. Camp facilities include a lodge, outdoor swimming pool, pavilions, and activity fields. Visit www.ymcaboston.org or call (781) 575-9905.

Norman Smith Environmental Education Center is managed by Mass Audubon’s Blue Hills Trailside Museum. The Environmental Education Center hosts programs year-round including Blue Hills Summer Camp. The facility is also available for rentals and overnights by businesses and groups, featuring an industrial kitchen, dormitories, a large meeting space, beautiful views atop scenic Chickatawbut Hill, and access to numerous trails. Visit www.massaudubon.org/bluehills or call (617) 333-0690.

Picnic tables and charcoal grills are available at Houghton’s Pond and Chickatawbut Overlook. Picnic sites at Houghton’s Pond are in great demand during the summer—plan accordingly. Permits are required for groups of 25 or more persons. For group picnic site reservations at Houghton’s Pond Recreation Area, visit ReserveAmerica at www.reserveamerica.com or call (877) 422-6762.

Rock Climb at the Quincy Quarries Historic Site on Ricciuti Drive in Quincy. Proper safety equipment is required.

Scenic Viewing from the Eliot Memorial Observation Tower atop Great Blue Hill is outstanding. The tower boasts a panoramic view of Boston and the surrounding area, accessible via the hiking and biking trails. Chickatawbut Overlook on Chickatawbut Road features a striking view of the Boston skyline; the area is accessible by car, with a parking area and picnic tables.

Hike on 120 miles of scenic trails. Purchase a color trail map at the Reservation Headquarters or the Blue Hills Trailside Museum. Trails are well-marked and suitable for a range of abilities, from novice to experienced hikers. Please dress appropriately and bring water on all hikes.

Horseback Riding is popular among equestrians from privately-owned stables. Many of the wider trails throughout the park are former carriage roads and are suitable for trail riding.

Houghton’s Pond Recreation Area, located at 840 Hillside Street in Milton, offers a number of park amenities. A small, free visitor center features park information and exhibits highlighting the human history of the Blue Hills. Accessible restroom facilities are provided year-round. The recreation area also includes a playground, park benches, and a seasonal food concession. The visitor center overlooks Marigold Marsh, accessible from a boardwalk and viewing platforms with interpretive signage. The supervised swimming beach, picnic areas, and trails are very popular features, especially in summer.

Ice Skate at a DCR skating rink in the Blue Hills. For the William T. Shea Rink in Quincy, call (617) 512-8402. For the Max Ulin Rink in Milton, call (617) 696-9869.

Mountain Bike in designated areas of the reservation. Please respect “No Mountain Bicycling” signs in restricted areas and the seasonal closure of bike trails during the month of March to limit trail impacts during mud season. Stop by Reservation Headquarters to pick up a mountain bike map or visit www.mass.gov/dcr for information.

Brookwood Community Farm, through a community-supported agriculture model, grows produce using organic methods and provides on-farm educational and community-building opportunities. The farm also actively supports local food access projects. Visit brookwoodcommunityfarm.org for more information.

Camp year-round only at the Appalachian Mountain Club cabins on Ponkapoag Pond. Advance reservations are required. Visit www.outdoors.org or call (781) 961-7007 for reservations and information.

Educational & Recreational Programs are offered by DCR park rangers year-round. Look for program schedules posted on park bulletin boards, visit www.mass.gov/dcr/programs or call (617) 698-1802 for details on these free programs.

Fish in the reservation’s ponds including Houghton’s Pond, Ponkapoag Pond, St. Moritz Ponds, Hillside Pond, the Blue Hill Reservoir, and Pine Tree Brook. Houghton’s Pond and Pine Tree Brook are stocked seasonally with trout. A state fishing license is required.

Visit www.mass.gov/dfw/fishing for more information.

Friends of the Blue Hills is a non-profit volunteer organization founded in the 1970s to protect and preserve the Blue Hills Reservation. For information about free family events and trail maintenance opportunities, visit www.friendsofthebluehills.org or call (781) 828-1805.

Golf at Ponkapoag Golf Course, which features two 18-hole courses on Route 138 in Canton, 3/4 mile south of Route 93. In addition, there is a driving range, putting green, golf carts, snack bar, and pro shop. Lessons, season passes, and gift certificates are available. Call (781) 828-4242.

Enjoying the ReservationBlue Hills Reservation Headquarters is located at 695 Hillside Street in Milton, 1/4 mile north of Houghton’s Pond, beside the State Police Station. A self-service information station provides trail maps for sale, park brochures and information, and a unisex restroom, open year-round. Visitor parking is available, limited to 10 minutes only. Please stop by or call (617) 698-1802 for park information.

Athletic Fields are located on the southeast side of Houghton’s Pond. Three fields are available. For reservations, visit www.mass.gov/how-to/athletic-field-scheduling or call (617) 626-4913.

Blue Hill Observatory and Science Center is perched atop the summit of Great Blue Hill and has maintained a continuous weather record since 1885. Educational programs and tours are offered for a fee. This National Historic Landmark also features a gift shop with weather-related items and souvenirs as well as beverages and trail snacks for sale. Visit www.bluehill.org or call (617) 696-0562.

Blue Hills Trailside Museum serves as the interpretive center for the Blue Hills Reservation and is operated by Mass Audubon. Interior and exterior exhibits highlight the habitats and wildlife of the park. A variety of rescued native wildlife call Trailside home and now serve important roles as environmental ambassadors. Before hiking up the red dot trail to the Eliot Tower, head inside the museum to visit the animals, learn more about the park and upcoming programs, and purchase a trail map and snacks in the gift shop. A small admission fee is charged for the museum exhibits; entry is free for members of Mass Audubon. A wide variety of programs for all ages and abilities are offered. Please, no pets or smoking on museum grounds. Visit www.massaudubon.org/bluehills or call (617) 333-0690.

Boat on Ponkapoag Pond, launching at Fisherman’s Beach on Randolph Street in Canton. Non-motorized car-top boats only. For boating on the Neponset River, visit www.neponset.org for their Neponset River Paddler’s Guide listing launch sites.

A Precious Resource…We ask that you extend special respect to the parkland:

• Keep pets leashed at all times and remove all pet waste.• Stay on marked trails for your own safety, and to avoid

disturbing sensitive habitats and wildlife.• Leave no trace. Carry out all that you carry in.• Leave plants and animals undisturbed.• Note that all rare species are protected under state law

from any harm, removal, or harassment.

Go Green to the Blue Hills!Public transportation and ride sharing are strongly

encouraged. Public parking is limited—expect heavy use, especially on weekends, and plan accordingly.

The Blue Hills Reservation is serviced by three main MBTA bus lines. Schedules vary. For more information, visit www.mbta.com or call the MBTA at (800) 392-6100.

• West Area (Trailside Museum, Blue Hills Ski Area, Great Blue Hill, and Houghton’s Pond): Take the Mattapan Station–Cobbs Corner (Canton) bus, Route 716 (this route has an unusual schedule—see website)

• Central Area (Chickatawbut Overlook): Take the Ashmont Station–Avon Square bus, Route 240

• East Area (St. Moritz Ponds and Shea Rink): Take the Quincy Center–Holbrook/Randolph bus, Route 238

Important Contacts:DCR Blue Hills Reservation · 695 Hillside Street, Milton, MA 02186 · (617) 698-1802

DCR 24-hour Radio Dispatch: (508) 820-1428

Blue Hills Trailside Museum: (617) 333-0690

Comments and concerns: please contact DCR Community Relations at mass.parks@mass.gov or call (617) 626-4973

For accessibility details, call DCR at (617) 698-1802

Check DCR website for updates: www.mass.gov/dcr

In case of emergency, call 911 or contact the State Police Milton Barracks at (617) 698-5840

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Balster Brook

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Pine Tree Brook

Mother Brook

Pecunit Brook

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Ponkapoag Brook

Trout Brook

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Course 1

Course 2

LittleBlue Hill

331 ft

WampatuckHill 353 ft

RattlesnakeHill 312 ft

Little Dome202 ft

Great Dome251 ft

Fox Hill322 ft

NahantonHill 477 ft

KitchamakinHill 463 ft

Hawk Hill432 ft

FennoHill

494 ft

ChickatawbutHill 512 ft

Tucker Hill441 ft

South BoyceHill 396 ft

N. BoyceHill 397 ft

Burnt Hill344 ft

Buck Hill493 ft

Breeze Hill290 ft

WolcottHill 465 ft

HoughtonHill 427 ft

HemenwayHill 473 ft

HancockHill506 ft

GreatBlue Hill

635 ft

Wren Terrace

Woo

d Road

Washington St.

Turner Road

Sunset DriveSilver Brook Road

Sherman Lane

Sassamon Avenue

Salem St.

Royall Street

Ridley Road

Ridgewood Road

Ricciuti Drive

Purg

atory Road

O’Connell

Ave.

Oak Street

Nahanton Avenue

MullinAvenue

Milton Street

Mea

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Lorayne Drive

Larry Pl.

KC Farm Road

Homans Lane

Hillside Stre

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Hemlock Drive

Hele

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Harrison Road

Harland Street

Harland Street

Grove St.

Green Lodge Street

Green Lane

Forest Street

Forest Avenue

Fawn Circle

Farrington Lane

Farm Street

DouglasSt.

Dollar Lane

Cynthia Road

Connolly Street

Carisbrooke

Rd.

Carberry Lane

CantonStreet

Bunker Hill

Lane

Brush Hill Road

Brush Hill

Road

Bridle Path

Blue Hill Drive

BatesAve.

Adel

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Glenwood Ave.Faraday St.

Wake�eld

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West St.

Pres

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Ames Street

Highland Street

Roya

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Beacon Lane

Park Street Malden St.

Beverly St.

Governor Stoughton Lane

Willard

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Will

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West Street

West MiltonStreet

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Was

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Turnpike Street

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Scanlon Drive

River St.

Reed Street

Randolph Street

Randolph Avenue

Aven

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North StreetN. M

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Milton Street

Milt

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Hig

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Granite St.

Dedham Street

Canton Street

Canton Avenue

Blue

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Chestn

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Pond

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Copeland St.

Canto

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EXIT 4

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Unquity Road

Truman Parkw

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Neponset

Neponset Valley Parkway

Hillsid

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Furnace Brook

Furnace Brook

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Chickatawbut Road

Chick

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Blue Hill River Road

Park

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Blue

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Nepo

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Gre

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Sw

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Skyline

Pipe L

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Moulton Path

K Path

Green

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Fowl Meadow Path

Field Path

Cosmos Path

Burm

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Burm

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Thre

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Smith Trail

Redman Farm Path

Redm

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Far

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Ponk

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Ponkapoag Trail

Ponkapoag Path

Pipe

Lin

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Pastu

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No Name Path

Middle Road

Middle Street

Meadow Road

Maple Avenue

Madden Road

Hem

lockRoad

Boardwalk

Acton Path

Acton Pat

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Acton Path

SkylineSkyli

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Shor

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Sawcut Notch

Path

Sawcut Notch

Path

Ridge Path

Quarries Foot

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Pipe

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Pipe Line

Pipe

Lin

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Pine Tree B rook PathPasture Run

Old Furnace Brook Path

Mur

phy

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Indian Camp Path

Headquart

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Path

Fox Hill Path

Crags Foot Path

Crags Foot Path

Cedar Rock Path

Wood Path

Wam

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Streamsid

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Squa maug Notch Path

Squamaug Notch Path

Slide Notch

Path

Skyline

Skyline

Savoy P

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Sassaman Notch PathSassaman Notch Path

Pipe Line

Lee P

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Laurel Path

Hemlock Path

Hawk H

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Path

Glover Path

Curv

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Branch Path

Braintree Pass Path

Braintree Pass Path

Bouncing

Brook

P

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Barberry Bush Spring Trail

Path

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Skyline

Skyline

Pipe

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Pig Rock Path

Old Route 128

Oblique Path

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Headquarters

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Forest Path

Fells Path

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Burnt H

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Bugbee Path

Bugbee P ath

Buck Hill Sum

mit Trail

Buck Hill Path

Beech Hollow Path

Athol Path

Angle Path

(Closed in winter)

Wolcott Path

Wolcott Path

Wildcat Notch Path

Wild

cat

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Valle

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mit Road

Skyline (south branch)

Skyline

(north

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Houghton Path

Hemenway Hill P

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Hancock

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Half

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Five

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Raccoon Hollow Path

Racc

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Chestnut Run Path

Carberry Path

Brookwood Trail

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Ledge

Path

Border PathBorder Path

Base Path

Bartol Path

Accord Path

win

ter

Clos

ed in

716

ToMattapan

Station(see bus

schedule)

716

To CobbsCorner (seebus schedule)

240

ToAshmontStation

240

ToAvon

Square

238

To QuincyCenter

Station

238

ToHolbrook/Randolph

Commuter Rail Station

See busschedule

See busschedule

1904 Canton Ave.@ Trailside Museum

(see bus schedule)

See busschedule

Randolph Ave.@ Highland St.

Randolph Ave.@ Chickatawbut Rd.

N. Main St.@ Russ St./

Scanlon Dr.

Willard St.@ Ames St.

Willard St.@ Copeland St.

Hyde Park Ave.@ Wolcott Square

Truman Hwy.@ Wake�eld Ave.

ROUTE 128

READVILLE

CAMP SAYREBOY SCOUTSOF AMERICA

DCR MARTINI SHELLPARK & MOYNIHANRECREATION AREA

DCR STONY BROOKRESERVATION

DCR MOTHER BROOKRESERVATION

DCRCAMPMEIGS

DCR COLELLAPLAYGROUND

FARNHAM-CONNOLLYSTATE PARK (DCRNEPONSET RIVER

RESERVATION)

DCR NEPONSETRIVER RESERVATION

PAUL’SBRIDGE

FOWL MEADOW(DCR NEPONSET RIVER

RESERVATION)

GOLFCLUBHOUSE

PONKAPOAGGOLF COURSE

YMCACAMP

PONKAPOAG

AMC CAMPENTRANCE

AMCPONKAPOAG

CAMP

FISHERMAN’SBEACH

CCCCAMP

CHICKATAWBUT OVERLOOK

SHEARINK

QUINCYQUARRIES

HISTORIC SITE

NORMAN SMITHENVIRONMENTAL

EDUCATION CENTER

CHICKATAWBUTTOWER

VISITORCENTER

ATHLETICFIELDS

BATHHOUSE

TRAILSIDEMUSEUM

ELIOTTOWER

WEATHEROBSERVATORY

WILLIAMF. ROGERSSKI AREA

BROOKWOOD

FARM

ULINRINK

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ALTERNATEROUTE TOHOSPITAL

TO HOSPITALBETH ISRAEL DEACONESS MILTON

199 REEDSDALE ROAD · (617) 696-4600

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IL 2

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R U L E S A N D R E G U L A T I O N S

Park open dawn to dusk.

For the protection and enjoyment of the Blue Hills, the following are prohibited: • Littering • Open �res • Metal detectors • Alcoholic beverages • Pets, except on a leash • Hunting or trapping • Posting or distributing lea�ets • Camping, except at AMC Camp with permit • Motorized vehicles, except on public roads • Disruptive conduct, including public nudity • Group use of 25 or more, except with a DCR permit • Destruction or removal of vegetation, animals,

structures, artifacts, or other State property

In addition, the following activities are allowed in designated areas only: • Parking • Sporting activities • Mountain bicycling • Charcoal grills or fuel stoves • Non-motorized boating at Ponkapoag Pond • Swimming at Houghton’s Pond with lifeguard

supervision

All visitors must follow directions of park personnel or police. Any violations of these regulations may result in arrest and/or �ne per order of 302 Commonwealth of Massachusetts Regulations 12.00.

N O T E : M A P I N K C O L O R S M A Y F A D E W H E N E X P O S E D T O S U N L I G H T . P R I N T E D W I T H S O Y I N K O N R E C Y C L E D P A P E R .

Yellow triangles mark this hilly loop in the Great Blue Hill section. It provides a rocky, rugged experience for the advanced mountain biker or avid hiker.

4.5 miles · challengingBreakneck Ledge Loop

White triangles mark this rambling loop in the Houghton’s Pond section. It o�ers a long woodland hike or novice-to-intermediate mountain bike ride.

6 miles · moderateForest Path Loop

Directional loop trails are marked with triangles, and both loops begin and end at the Houghton’s Pond main parking lot. �ese are designed as rolling routes for a fun mountain bike ride or long woodland hike. �e trails are marked in one direction only and are to be followed counterclockwise.

D I R E C T I O N A L L O O P S

Red dots mark rugged, rocky loops over hilly terrain providing a more challenging hike.

1.3–3.8 miles · 1–2.25 hours · challengingRed Dot Loops

Green dots mark several woodland loops which allow you to enjoy the natural beauty of the reservation.

2.7–4.25 miles · 2–2.25 hours · moderateGreen Dot Loops

Yellow dots mark short loops which enable you to enjoy parts of the reservation in a small amount of time.

0.6–1 mile · 1 hour · easyYellow Dot Loops

Loop trails are marked with dots. �ey begin and end at the same point, at designated parking areas as marked on the map.

L O O P T R A I L S

Skyline Loop Trail is a popular sampling of the Skyline Trail. It links the north and south branches of the Skyline Trail between the Reservation Headquarters and Eliot Observation Tower atop Great Blue Hill. �is challenging route summits �ve hilltops over steep, rocky terrain. Follow the blue blazes from the headquarters, heading west toward Great Blue Hill. 2.6 miles · 2 to 2.5 hours · di�cult

Skyline Traverse travels an east-west route across the Blue Hills range. �is is the longest and most challenging hike in the park, with steep and rocky terrain. �is is not a loop trail so plan your transportation back to your starting point. 7.5 miles · 4 to 7 hours · di�cult

�e Skyline Trail crosses the length of the reservation and is marked with blue rectangular blazes. �e trail climbs many of the peaks of the Blue Hills range, o�ering spectacular views over steep and rugged terrain.

�ere are two ways to explore the Skyline Trail:

S K Y L I N E

S TAY O N D C R - D E S I G N AT E D T R A I L S F O R S A F E T Y A N D R E S O U R C E P R OT E C T I O N .

�e four-digit numbers seen on the map indicate trail intersections. Look for the small white signs with black numbers on trees or posts along trails. Find the corresponding number on the map to determine your location.

1186

I N T E R S E C T I O N N U M B E R S

Bridge

Boardwalk

Bicycle Path

Paved Path

Paved Road

Unpaved Road

Wide Trail

Narrow TrailR E S E R V A T I O N R O A D S A N D T R A I L S

Other State Parkland

Blue Hills Reservation

Town Boundary

Hilltop (with elevation)427 ft

Elevation Contours(20 foot interval)

WetlandWetland

Pond

Intermittent Stream

Stream

240MBTA Bus Stop

Train Station

State Police

Building Footprint(within reservation)

Athletic Field/Court

Skating Rink

Canoe Launch

Snack Bar, Picnic Area

Playground

Swimming (seasonal)

Parking Area (large, small)

Restroom (year-round, seasonal)

Tennis, Basketball

Reservation Headquarters D A T A S O U R C E S : M A S S G I S ; D C R G I S ; D C R F O R E S T R Y ;

M A S S P A R K S ; D C R B U R E A U O F P L A N N I N G , D E S I G N & R E S O U R C E P R O T E C T I O N ;

M A S S A U D U B O N ’ S B L U E H I L L S T R A I L S I D E M U S E U M ;

F R I E N D S O F T H E B L U E H I L L S ; E S R I ; F E M A ; U S G S

Blue Hills Reservation has over 120 miles of trails, including 40+ miles of recommended color-coded routes for easier navigation. �ese trails are blazed with painted markings that correspond to the map symbols listed to the right.

L E G E N D

Magnetic

14.58° (2018)

MA State Plane NAD83

P R O J E C T I O N : M A S S A C H U S E T T S S T A T E P L A N E N A D 8 3 M E T E R S

1 I N C H = 1 ,400 F E E T

1 : 16 ,800S C A L E

F E E T

1 ,000 2,000

M I L E S

¼ ½

blue hillsreservation