The best walks and hikes in Moynihan Recreation Area
4.6
(290)
1,518
hikers
148
hikes
Hiking in Moynihan Recreation Area offers accessible trails within an urban park setting in Boston. The area is characterized by well-maintained paths and natural surroundings, providing a peaceful retreat from city life. It features a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces suitable for walking and light hiking. The terrain is generally gentle, with minimal elevation changes, making it ideal for recreational outdoor activities.
Best hiking trails in Moynihan Recreation Area
- The most popular hiking route is Burma Road Trail Loop…
Last updated: July 13, 2026
6.65km
01:42
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
15.1km
04:07
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4
hikers
3.48km
00:56
40m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.47km
00:30
110m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
hikers
3.13km
00:57
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Nice view to Boston. There are some differnt place with awsome views
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This trail can be rooty, and bumpy, and a touch over-grown, but it is fun to ride on a gravel/CX/MTB, and you can get up some serious speed. Plus, go all the way to the end, and you will see where they tried to start pushing I95 through into the heart of Boston. Now it's just a state equipment storage area, but there's still the cloverleafs to show how close it got. Could you imagine it? All the wood and wetlands that the trail brings you through would have been a highway. Ergh. Luckily, the people in Boston pushed back, and instead we got the Orange Line and the Southwest Corridor Park.
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Summit Road is a popular route up to Great Blue Hill. It winds through the wooded Blue Hill Reservation. The route is also popular with hikers and runners, so make sure you are aware of other road users, especially when descending. At the top, there are wonderful views of Boston to reward you for the tough climb up.
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Summit Road is a popular paved trail that takes you to Great Blue Hill, the highest peak in the Blue Hills range. It's a great one for kids or those with limited mobility as the path is wide, well-maintained and easy to follow. Don't forget to look backward from time to time to enjoy the sensational views over Boston and the surrounding area.
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Whilst Great Blue Hill is the tallest of the 22 hills in the Blue Hills Chain, it is only a moderate climb from the main road, making it achievable for most. From the top, you're afforded tremendous views across the surrounding area, including over the whole of Boston and on a clear day, all the way to Mount Monadnock in New Hampshire.
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If you're looking for an excellent place for a quick jog with a stunning view of Boston, its harbor, and the South Shore, this is it. You'll find an observation tower of stone that stands 35 feet tall, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps between 1933 and 1944. Once you make it to the top, you'll be able to enjoy a breathtaking 270-degree view of the surrounding areas. It's an exceptional opportunity to take in the landscape's natural beauty and see the city from a unique perspective.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Moynihan Recreation Area?
Moynihan Recreation Area offers over 160 routes for hiking and walking. These trails cater to various preferences, from short strolls to longer recreational hikes within the urban park setting.
What is the best time of year to hike in Moynihan Recreation Area?
Spring and fall are generally considered the best seasons to visit Moynihan Recreation Area. The weather is mild and comfortable, perfect for enjoying the park's natural beauty, from vibrant fall foliage to refreshing spring breezes.
Are the trails in Moynihan Recreation Area suitable for beginners or casual walkers?
Yes, Moynihan Recreation Area is very suitable for beginners and casual walkers. The park features well-maintained, accessible trails, including paved paths, with generally gentle terrain and minimal elevation changes. Over 110 of the available routes are rated as easy.
Are there any circular routes in Moynihan Recreation Area?
Yes, Moynihan Recreation Area features several circular routes. For an easy option, consider the East Boundary and Stony Brook Path Loop, which is 2.2 miles (3.5 km) long. For a longer, moderate experience, the Burma Road and Skyline Trail Loop covers 9.4 miles (15.1 km).
What kind of natural features or points of interest can I expect to see in Moynihan Recreation Area?
Moynihan Recreation Area provides a tranquil urban escape with natural beauty and scenic views. While it's an urban park, visitors can enjoy well-maintained green spaces, peaceful atmospheres, and diverse scenery that changes with the seasons. There is also a memorial dedicated to Paul C. "Puzzy" Carter Marine PFC within the park.
Is Moynihan Recreation Area dog-friendly?
Moynihan Recreation Area is generally dog-friendly, offering a pleasant environment for walks with your canine companion. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash and adhere to any posted park regulations to ensure a positive experience for all visitors.
Are there family-friendly trails in Moynihan Recreation Area?
Absolutely. Moynihan Recreation Area is designed to be family-friendly, with accessible trails suitable for all ages and varying fitness levels. The park also includes amenities like a playground and a spray deck, making it a great destination for families. Many of the easy routes, such as the Burma Road Trail Loop, are ideal for families.
What do other hikers enjoy the most about hiking in Moynihan Recreation Area?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 180 reviews. Reviewers often praise the park's accessible, well-maintained trails, its peaceful urban atmosphere, and the opportunity for a rejuvenating outdoor experience amidst the city bustle.
Is parking available at Moynihan Recreation Area?
As an urban park, parking availability at Moynihan Recreation Area can vary. It's advisable to check local city parking regulations or public transport options when planning your visit, as dedicated parking lots might be limited.
Are there any permits required for hiking in Moynihan Recreation Area?
No, permits are not generally required for hiking or walking in Moynihan Recreation Area. It is a public urban park designed for community access and enjoyment.
What is the typical elevation gain on trails in Moynihan Recreation Area?
The trails in Moynihan Recreation Area are characterized by generally gentle terrain with minimal elevation changes. Most routes are relatively flat, making them accessible for a wide range of users. For example, the Great Blue Hill via Coon Hollow Path, an easy route, has an elevation gain of about 110 meters.
Are the trails in Moynihan Recreation Area stroller-friendly?
Yes, many of the trails in Moynihan Recreation Area are stroller-friendly. The park features accessible paved paths and well-maintained surfaces, making it suitable for parents with strollers. It's an ideal location for leisurely walks with young children.
Most popular routes in Moynihan Recreation Area
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