Hiking and Biking in Metrowest Massachusetts
Here is a quick and simple guide to some great trail riding and hiking locations in the Metrowest area. All of the trails in these 3 parks are open to hikers, mountain bikers, pets and even horse back riding. In addition, there are also lakes and ponds for fishing, kayaking, canoeing and boating. There are numerous other parks in the area, but the following 3 are the most well known.Callahan State Park
Callahan State Park is hidden away in a suburban section of Framingham and Southborough.
- » There are a few main entrances and miles of trails for the avid hiker, biker and horse back rider. See below for the two main parking lots/entrances for the parks. Please note that the trail system is much larger than what is shown on the Google map and you can easily walk/ride into Marlborough. One ride I got completely lost and ended up in the Raytheon complex. It was worth the long haul back, since the downhill section on the way was incredible.
- » Parking is free
- » If you want to work on your riding skills, the north section of Callahan is full of steep ascents and descents and will challenge most riders.
- » The park is pet friendly and has a small pond for your dog to cool off and play. If your dog behaves well, it's a great place to let it off the lease, play fetch and let it go for a swim.
- »In the winter, many people come here snowshoe and cross country ski.
Ashland State Park
Ashland State Park is easy to find and the main entrance is off of Route 135. Route 135 can be accessed by Route 495. Mountain bike riding here is good with a decent selection of trails.
- » There are two main entrances with 4 parking lots in all. The northern side of the park has the most spaces and is easiest to access from main routes.
- » The park offers a wide variety of activities due to the large reservoir such as; hiking, biking, canoeing, fishing, boating, swimming and cross country skiing
- » Parking is not free and costs a few dollars
- » The main trail goes around the border of the lake
- » The park is pet friendly, but they do post that your dog should be on a leash.
- » About 1/3 of the park is made up of the Ashland Reservoir, which has a beach and is a great swimming spot.
- » Restrooms on site
Hopkinton State Park
Hopkinton State Park is the largest park out of these three and is probably the most popular due to all of the access points, location and activities that are allowed. It is located on the border of Hopkinton and Ashland with the northern section close to Southborough. Route 85 cuts through the middle of the park and makes for a great weekend drive.
- » Please view this detailed map to see all of the parking locations on the northern main entrance
- » Here is an overview map of the entire park and the trail system
- » The park offers a wide variety of activities similar to Ashland State Park. There are more trails than in Ashland, so it does allow for more biking terrain.
- » Hiking, biking, canoeing, fishing, boating, swimming and cross country skiing
- » The park is pet friendly, but you will want to have your pet on a leash
- » Parking will cost a few dollars
- » Non motorized boats are available for rent
- » Snowmobiling is allowed in the winter with at least 4” of snow cover
- » 300 first come first serve picnic sites
- » Two beaches are supervised during particular hours
- » Restrooms on site
- » A one acre picnic site is available for reservations. Please note, summer reservations book up at least 6 months in advance!
Labels: biking, hiking, massachusetts, metrowest
