Brookline, MA, offers a variety of scenic hiking trails that allow residents and visitors to enjoy the outdoors while remaining close to the city. Whether you are looking for a casual stroll or a more immersive nature experience, Brookline and its surrounding areas have plenty to offer. Below are some of the best hiking spots to explore.
Larz Anderson Park
Larz Anderson Park is one of Brookline’s largest green spaces, offering a mix of paved and unpaved trails. The park features open meadows, wooded areas, and scenic views of the Boston skyline. Hikers can explore the trails surrounding the park’s historic structures and ponds, making it a great destination for both exercise and relaxation. In addition to hiking, visitors can enjoy picnic areas, a skating rink in the winter, and an auto museum showcasing vintage cars.
Hall’s Pond Sanctuary
Hall’s Pond Sanctuary provides a short but rewarding hike for those seeking a peaceful nature walk. This urban sanctuary features a boardwalk that winds through wetlands, offering opportunities to observe local wildlife. It is a great spot for birdwatching and enjoying a quiet escape from the surrounding city. The sanctuary is one of the oldest wildlife preservation areas in the region and serves as a habitat for a variety of birds, turtles, and small mammals.
The Emerald Necklace
Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the Emerald Necklace is a network of parks and green spaces that extend through Brookline and beyond. This extensive trail system connects several parks, including the Riverway, Olmsted Park, and Jamaica Pond. Hikers can enjoy miles of trails with shaded paths, open fields, and waterfront views. The interconnected parks offer a mix of paved and natural trails, making it a great choice for both casual walkers and more experienced hikers.
Lost Pond Reservation
Located near Brookline’s border with Newton, Lost Pond Reservation features wooded trails that provide a more secluded hiking experience. The trails lead through dense forested areas and past the pond, creating an ideal setting for those looking to experience nature without traveling far from the city. The reservation also supports diverse wildlife, including amphibians, birds, and small mammals, making it a great spot for nature observation.
Brookline Reservoir Park
Brookline Reservoir Park offers a flat, looped trail that circles the reservoir, making it an excellent option for a relaxed walk or jog. The trail provides scenic views of the water and surrounding trees, making it a popular destination for both casual hikers and fitness enthusiasts. The reservoir was originally built as part of Boston’s water supply system and has since become a recreational space enjoyed by residents year-round.
Cutler Park Reservation
A short drive from Brookline, Cutler Park Reservation offers a variety of trails that wind through wetlands, woodlands, and along the Charles River. The park’s extensive trail system makes it a great choice for those looking to explore beyond Brookline while remaining close to the city. With over 700 acres of protected land, Cutler Park is home to diverse plant and animal life, offering visitors a chance to experience different ecosystems in one location.
Hemlock Gorge Reservation
Hemlock Gorge Reservation, located just outside Brookline, features scenic trails along the Charles River. Highlights of this hiking area include the Echo Bridge and a mix of wooded and riverside paths. The area is known for its historic features and peaceful natural setting. The trails provide a blend of natural beauty and historical significance, making it a unique destination for hikers interested in both scenery and local history.
Blue Hills Reservation
For those willing to venture a bit farther, Blue Hills Reservation offers some of the best hiking opportunities near Brookline. This large park features a variety of trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes with panoramic views from the summit of Great Blue Hill. The reservation spans over 7,000 acres, providing visitors with opportunities for hiking, biking, and even skiing in the winter months.
Arnold Arboretum
Part of the Emerald Necklace, Arnold Arboretum offers miles of scenic walking trails with diverse trees and plants. The rolling landscapes, wooded trails, and seasonal flower displays make it a great destination for nature enthusiasts and casual hikers alike. The arboretum is also a research and conservation site managed by Harvard University, offering educational programs and guided tours for visitors interested in botany.
Hammond Pond Reservation
Located just outside of Brookline, Hammond Pond Reservation offers forested trails and unique rock formations popular for hiking and bouldering. The reservation’s trails wind through wetlands and wooded areas, providing a quiet and scenic outdoor experience. The area is particularly popular among rock climbers, with its exposed rock formations serving as natural climbing walls for enthusiasts of all skill levels.
About Brenda van der Merwe
Brenda van der Merwe has spent nearly two decades as a real estate broker in the Boston area, building strong relationships with clients and gaining extensive experience in residential sales. She specializes in single-family homes, condominiums, luxury properties, and new construction. She has facilitated over $350,000,000 in real estate transactions and has successfully assisted buyers and sellers in various Boston-area communities.
If you're looking to buy or sell a home or have any questions about the Brookline, MA, real estate market, contact Brenda van der Merwe today.
