Ward Reservation

After passing an orchard, the loop reaches the summit of Holt Hill, where there are excellent views of Boston and the Blue Hills. This route is recommended for families.

The entrance for this hike is on Prospect Rd, 0.3 miles east of MA 125 in Andover. Hike east along Prospect Rd, then bear left and follow Rachel's Trail past the orchard.

At Jct 4, turn left onto the Bay Circuit Trail (BCT, more info at baycircuit.org) and make an easy ascent to the open meadow at the summit of Holt Hill and the Solstice Stones directional markers.

From the summit, follow the BCT along a paved utility road, then turn right at Jct 23 and continue downhill past stone walls. At Jct 22, turn right off the BCT and follow Ward Trail through the woods bordering Rubbish Meadow wetland. Turn right at Jcts 18 and 17, then right at Jct 16 and follow the Sanborn Trail along Cat Swamp and the base of Shrub and Holt Hills.

Complete the loop at the junction with the BCT near Holt Hill summit, then turn right on the paved road and follow it past Jct 23 to Prospect Rd and the trailhead.

This featured hike is courtesy of the Appalachian Mountain Club and the Bay Circuit Trail Map & Guide. For more information, visit their website.