The Department of Conservation and Recreation’s Les and Terry Campbell Quabbin Visitor Center is launching a new season of guided hikes across the Quabbin watershed beginning in May, offering participants a unique opportunity to experience the region’s natural beauty and rich history alongside DCR staff.
Advance registration is required for all hikes, with space limited, and dogs are not permitted on Quabbin lands. Participants should come prepared for outdoor conditions, including appropriate clothing, water, snacks and tick awareness. Full details and registration are available at www.friendsofquabbin.org/dcr-programs/.
Thursday, May 7, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Gate 37 Forest Walk to Wetlands: 1.5 miles –Easy
This Habitat Hike will be a short walk down a forest road to a wetland habitat. It is a little over one-mile round trip. Those who are feeling adventurous may opt to hike further, up the side of Soapstone Mountain to a spectacular view of the Quabbin, though be advised this portion is difficult and will not be a part of the official hike.
Saturday, May 16, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Exploring Quabbin Park via the Visitor Center Loop Trail: 1.7 miles – Moderate
A 1.7-mile looped hike in Quabbin Park. The Loop trail travels below the Winsor Dam, along the Swift River, and through the forest behind the visitor center. Hike begins at the visitor center parking area. This location can be accessed through the main entrance off Route 9 in Belchertown. Follow signs for the visitor center from there.
Saturday May 23, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Hidden History: Webster Road Trail: Relatively flat terrain, approximately 2.5 mile round-trip
Quabbin’s ghost towns are hiding in plain sight – if you know where to look. This two-hour guided interpretive walk will teach how to read the natural landscape as you uncover clues that reveal the hidden history of Webster Road. Explore old cellar holes and historic stone walls, get to know some native and invasive plants, and learn more about the families who lived in the town of Enfield 100 years ago.
Thursday, June 4, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Tower Trail Habitat Hike: Three miles – Moderate
It is a moderately difficult hike, approximately three miles round-trip up Quabbin Hill through woodland and mountain habitat and back. Due to safety issues, we will not be able to go up to the tower itself, as it is currently closed for renovations.
Sunday June 16, 11 a.m.- 2 p.m.
Exploring the Road to Dana Common: Moderate
The old foundations, stone walls, and shade trees of Dana Common will transport walkers to the past as they explore Quabbin’s unique history. This 3.6-mile round-trip hike will introduce some of the notable residents of Dana and show what life was like in the Swift River Valley over 100 years ago. Photos illustrating Quabbin’s past will bring Dana to life before the eyes.
Saturday, June 20, 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Exploring the north side of the Quabbin Watershed via gate 35: Five miles – intermediate
Join us for a five-mile out and back hike on Quabbin’s north side of the watershed, along the water on a dirt road through the forest. This hike will cover five miles in total, and the slope remains relatively flat the entire time.