Walden Pond

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Lake · Swimming · Wildlife

The trail passes by esteemed author Henry David Thoreau's 1845 cabin site, swimming beaches, and a boat launch. Recommended for families and naturalists.

This easy loop circles Walden Pond and its surrounding forests, passing several coves, a glacial esker, and swimming beaches.

The entrance is on the east side of MA 126, 0.25 mi south of the junction with MA 2 in Concord. From the parking lot, cross MA 126 and follow the path downhill to the pond. Turn right and continue northwest on the Pond Path.

At 0.5 mi, the trail meets the Bay Circuit Trail (BCT, more info at baycircuit.org) near Thoreau's cabin site. Follow the path along the pond's northwest shores. After paralleling some MBTA railroad tracks, turn left at the junction at Long Cove at 1.0 mi.

At 1.2 mi, leave the Pond Path and follow the BCT on the Esker Trail to the boat launch access road, then turn left and follow the road to the pond edge. Complete the loop by following the path along the main beach to the entrance.

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