Charles W. Ward Reservation
Charles W. Ward Reservation things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
Learn more insights from Wanderboat AIDescription
outdoor
adventure
family friendly
pet friendly
The Charles W. Ward Reservation is a 704-acre open space reserve located in Andover and North Andover, Massachusetts, 20 miles north of Boston.
attractions: Holt Hill, restaurants:
Ratings
Description
The Charles W. Ward Reservation is a 704-acre open space reserve located in Andover and North Andover, Massachusetts, 20 miles north of Boston.
Posts
Trails Around Boston
MildredMildred
490
Beautiful area to walk especially when the leave colors are changing! There are three main hikes with a map sign posted after the bridge off the parking lot. The highlights here are the Solstice Stones at the top of Ward Hill and a view of Boston and all the trees in between. If you follow the yellow markers, it is about 15 minutes from the parking lot to the top. Another hike starts from the Ward Hill peak along the Graham Trail to Boston Hill which was an old downhill ski area. Follow the blue markers as you hike this trail. Parking is $5 but free if you are a member of the Trustee's. You just need to make a donation to become a member. The money goes to preserving the nice outdoor areas for all of us to enjoy. Getting there: Take Route 125 to Prospect Road in Andover. Drive in about one half mile to the parking lot on the right.
Andrew GrahamAndrew Graham
10
This reservation does not disappoint! There's an incredible variety of habitats to check out: white pine forest, swamp, red pine plantation, bog, hardwood forest, hilltop meadow. Holt Hill is the main attraction with great views of the Boston skyline in the distance and a large grassy area to frolic in. But there is so much more to see, including Boston Hill where you can see a more expansive skyline, the old lift machinery from Ski Ward and a managed habitat intended to encourage species like the frosted elfin. There's enough to explore that you'll want to come back another time. Lots of stone walls and meadows to keep sniffing dogs happy. It's $5 to park and the lot is not particularly big. Parking is not allowed in the surrounding neighborhood.
Stephen HarteStephen Harte
50
Beautiful fall colors in October. There are many trails to take all marked exceptionally well. There are different colors including blue dots and red dots. Took the Vetter Trail and Ward Trail loop which was red and blue with a mixture of open hill fields with views of Boston and a great deal of wood trails. Lots of rocks and hills but personally enjoyed the moderate challenge and the foot bridges and little surprises along the way. While I’ve heard bugs and mud are problematic in the summer months, there was no mud, even after light rain, no bugs and no crowds. Couldn’t ask for more! Just a $6 parking kiosk and no bathroom. Might recommend doing the woods first and end with the expansive hill views.
Rover RemarkerRover Remarker
00
The views of the Boston skyline were worth the hike up. We took the yellow trail up its rated moderate which in my view is about right. For the easiest and fastest way to the top take the fire lane. Its a paved/closed road that is fine for strollers. The bog trail is pretty flat and is wheelchair assecible. The only down side to the property is there is no porta pottie or restroom on site. Dogs on leashes is allowed. Trails were clearly marked and there were posted maps at certain points. The fire tower is still on the property though it is closed, too bad bc a climb even halfway up would have offered some nice views..
Eric Maurice LevesqueEric Maurice Levesque
10
I did 5.14 miles in 2 hours and 25 minutes. No bugs at this time of year. It is a moderate trail with several inclines/declines that is mostly wide and covered with rocks, roots, leaves and pine needles. It can be slippery on the declines. Several boardwalks scattered throughout but no running water at this time. $6 to park using the kiosk. Great views of Boston at the top of the hill. Don't forget to stop at the Solstice Stones at the top of the hill. I saw tons of chipmunks, two geese, a large garter snake and a beaver. Great place to hike. I'll have to come back in the summer.
Joseph CostelloJoseph Costello
00
Nearby Attractions Of Charles W. Ward Reservation
Holt Hill
Holt Hill
5.0
(10)Click for details
Reviews
Overview
4.8
(252 reviews)
Website
thetrustees.org
Visit
Deep Dive
A deep dive into Charles W. Ward Reservation
- Unable to get your location