Lynn Woods Reservation

Lynn, MA

The Lynn Woods Reservation is “… a 2,200-acre municipal forest park located in Lynn, Massachusetts,” according to the city’s website.

The Woods, as it is known to the locals, hosts 30 miles of trails that have been set aside for “hiking, running, horseback riding, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, and nature walks.” It is also the 2nd largest municipal park in the United States.

Distance

4.5 miles

Hike Time

2 Hours

It was cool but sunny for our 4.5-mile hike in the Lynn Woods today. This property is expansive with Just over 2,000 acres of woods and 30 miles of trails. We looked at the trail map before we left and decided to head straight for the Stone Tower from the main entrance on Pennybrook Road. The parking lot was busy because it’s shared with a youth recreation area across the street. Dogs are allowed and parking was free. Don’t forget to bring a map because there are lots of trails and some, ahem, are marked better than others. We had a few of those, “well, if we can’t find our way we can just turn around and come back.” One of those turn-arounds added an extra mile to the hike. The main trails are wide enough for a vehicle; side trails are narrower and more wooded.

The 50-foot former fire tower is at the top of the very long & steep hill – not for the faint of heart – but worth the view. The inside entrance was closed but you can climb the stairs to the top to get a view of the Boston skyline. There are a number of other interesting landmarks too depending on how much time you have for hiking including Dungeon Rock, the Rose Garden, Houghton Horticultural Garden, the Amphitheater, and 3 active reservoirs with beautiful scenic vistas easily reached via any of their nearby side trails. LWR is opened from sunrise to sunset. Before you go always check the weather, trail website for current updates & maps, and what you are wearing. (Also carry some water and a fully charged cell phone – I sounds like my mother!)