Best Hikes in Quabbin Reservoir, MA

Default image for Dana Common via Gate 40 Trail, a 3.9-mile trail in Petersham, MA (US)

3.9 mi
6.3 km

Easy Out-and-Back

Dana Common via Gate 40 Trail

4.0

Petersham, Massachusetts

Created By:

David Miller (Admin)

Default image for Soapstone Hill Loop (Gate 37), a 4.3-mile trail in Petersham, MA (US)

4.3 mi
6.9 km

Hard Loop

Soapstone Hill Loop (Gate 37)

5.0

Petersham, Massachusetts

Created By:

David Miller (Admin)

Default image for Graves Landing via Skinner Hill Road, a 3.8-mile trail in Petersham, MA (US)

3.8 mi
6.1 km

Moderate Out-and-Back

Graves Landing via Skinner Hill Road

4.0

Petersham, Massachusetts

Created By:

David Miller (Admin)

Default image for Gate 35, a 3.0-mile trail in New Salem, MA (US)

3 mi
4.8 km

Easy Out-and-Back

Gate 35

0.0

New Salem, Massachusetts

Created By:

David Miller (Admin)

Default image for Gate 50 - The Wall, a 5.1-mile trail in Ware, MA (US)

5.1 mi
8.2 km

Moderate Out-and-Back

Gate 50 - The Wall

0.0

Ware, Massachusetts

Created By:

David Miller (Admin)

Default image for Gate 33, a 3.2-mile trail in New Salem, MA (US)

3.2 mi
5.1 km

Easy Out-and-Back

Gate 33

0.0

New Salem, Massachusetts

Created By:

David Miller (Admin)

Default image for Hank's Meadow Loop Trail, a 0.5-mile trail in Ware, MA (US)

0.5 mi
0.8 km

Easy Loop

Hank's Meadow Loop Trail

0.0

Ware, Massachusetts

Created By:

David Miller (Admin)

Default image for Goodnough Dike Loop Trail, a 1.8-mile trail in Ware, MA (US)

1.8 mi
2.9 km

Easy Loop

Goodnough Dike Loop Trail

0.0

Ware, Massachusetts

Created By:

David Miller (Admin)

Default image for Gate 11, a 4.4-mile trail in Pelham, MA (US)

4.4 mi
7.1 km

Moderate Out-and-Back

Gate 11

0.0

Pelham, Massachusetts

Created By:

David Miller (Admin)

Default image for Gate 16, a 1.2-mile trail in Shutesbury, MA (US)

1.2 mi
1.9 km

Easy Out-and-Back

Gate 16

0.0

Shutesbury, Massachusetts

Created By:

David Miller (Admin)

Default image for Winsor Dam Trail, a 1.5-mile trail in Belchertown, MA (US)

1.5 mi
2.4 km

Easy Out-and-Back

Winsor Dam Trail

0.0

Belchertown, Massachusetts

Created By:

David Miller (Admin)

Default image for Swift River Trail, a 1.2-mile trail in Belchertown, MA (US)

1.2 mi
1.9 km

Easy Out-and-Back

Swift River Trail

0.0

Belchertown, Massachusetts

Created By:

David Miller (Admin)

Key Takeaways

Quabbin Reservoir is located in Belchertown, MA, offering a large water source and scenic views.

The reservoir provides recreational activities like fishing (with a license), hiking on designated trails, and picnicking in specific areas.

Visitors should be aware of regulations protecting the water supply, including restrictions on swimming, boating (limited access), and proximity to the water's edge.

About Quabbin Reservoir

Discover the natural beauty and fascinating history of the Quabbin Reservoir area in Central Massachusetts! Offering a diverse range of hiking trails for all skill levels, from easy shoreline walks to moderate hikes with reservoir views, the Quabbin is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore remnants of old towns submerged beneath the water, observe diverse wildlife, and enjoy the tranquility of this protected watershed. Popular trails include the scenic Winsor Dam Trail, the historical Dana Common via Gate 40 Trail, and the peaceful Gate 35 Trail in New Salem, known for its Quabbin Reservoir views.

Plan your Quabbin Reservoir hiking adventure responsibly. Please be aware that dogs are strictly prohibited on all trails within the Quabbin Reservoir watershed to protect water quality and wildlife. Trail conditions vary, with some trails, like Gate 50 ("The Wall") and BL4 offering a more rugged experience. The Swift River Trail is an excellent option for fly fishing enthusiasts (designated fly fishing only). Some trails, such as Pepper's Mill Pond via Gate WR3 and the Quabbin Nature Walk Trail, can be overgrown, so check recent trail reports and come prepared for varied terrain. Remember to respect the environment and leave no trace behind.