Stretching across 2,575 acres, Middlesex Fells Reservation is one of Greater Boston’s largest green spaces, offering over 100 miles of mixed-use trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing. The reservation spans five towns—Malden, Medford, Melrose, Stoneham, and Winchester—making it one of the region’s most accessible nature retreats.

The park’s most prominent landmark is Spot Pond, a historic reservoir where visitors can rent kayaks and canoes for a peaceful paddle. Sheepfold Meadow, a 10-acre field, serves as an off-leash dog park, while Wright’s Tower provides stunning views of the Boston skyline. The Skyline Trail, a challenging 7-mile route, is a must for hikers looking for panoramic landscapes.

Rich in history, Middlesex Fells was originally explored by John Winthrop in 1632, later serving as a hub for mills, granite quarries, and ice harvesting. Today, remnants of this past—including the Spot Pond Archaeological District and historic roadways—add to its charm. The reservation also houses the Botume House Visitors Center, a historic structure offering insight into the park’s evolution.

Whether you’re hiking rugged trails, exploring abandoned mill sites, or paddling on Spot Pond, Middlesex Fells Reservation is Boston’s go-to nature retreat—just minutes from the city.