Easy hikes and walks in Myles Standish State Forest
4.5
(13)
206
hikers
57
hikes
Hiking in Myles Standish State Forest offers access to one of the largest publicly owned recreation areas in southeastern Massachusetts, spanning over 12,400 acres. The landscape is characterized by diverse and rare ecosystems, including extensive pitch pine/scrub oak communities, which form one of the largest pine barrens north of Long Island. Hikers will encounter dozens of glacier-created kettle ponds, rolling forested hills, and unique frost pockets where cold air collects.
Best easy hiking trails in Myles Standish State Forest
- The most popular easy hiking route is East Head Reservoir Trail, a 2.5 miles (4.1 km) trail that takes 1 hour 2 minutes to complete. This route offers views of wetlands and towering white pines.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Bentley Loop Trail – Myles Standish State Forest, an easy 4.4 miles (7.1 km) path. It passes through unspoiled woodlands, ponds, and meadows.
- Local hikers also love the Friends Trail Loop, a 2.5 miles (4.1 km) trail leading through tall pines, often completed in about 1 hour 3 minutes.
- Hiking in Myles Standish State Forest is defined by pine barrens, kettle ponds, and forested hills. The network offers options for various ability levels, with a focus on easy hiking trails.
- The routes in Myles Standish State Forest are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 10 reviews. More than 170 hikers have used komoot to explore Myles Standish State Forest's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
4.5
(4)
21
hikers
4.05km
01:02
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
13
hikers
7.05km
01:51
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
10
hikers
5.65km
01:28
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
4.06km
01:04
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.77km
01:02
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Three Cornered Pond is a scenic small pond in the Myles Standish State Forest. While it's not a great swimming pond (there are plenty of other options nearby!), it is very pretty and full of lilies. You can frequently see birds and insects flying around its shores.
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The Myles Standish State Forest is a hive of activity and a fantastic place to explore by bike. There are 15 miles of paved cycle trails through the trees and swimming spots in the ponds. Plus five campgrounds if you are on a multi-day trip.
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Gallows Pond is a kettle pond, meaning that it was formed by retreating glaciers thousands of years ago. Due to its clear, cool waters, it is a popular swimming, sun bathing, fishing, and boating spot in the summer months.
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Halfway Pond is not only a picturesque New England freshwater pond, but it also provides habitat for the federally endangered northern red-bellied cooter, a rare freshwater turtle species. Because the water is so clean, six mussel species live in Halfway Pond, two of which are quite rare. Additionally, the shores of the pond offer excellent opportunities for spotting bald eagles. You can enjoy many different seasonal activities such as canoeing and kayaking in the summer, hiking in the fall, snowshoeing in the winter, or searching for wildflowers in the spring.
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East Head Pond, or Reservoir, is a picturesque 92-acre pond located on the south end of the Myles Standish State Forest. The pond is situated in a unique forest community known as the "pine barrens," which is found in only a few places in the world. The area was formed over 10,000 years ago by glaciers and is the headwaters to the Wankinco River. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and boating while exploring the beautiful natural surroundings.
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The south end of the Friends Trail Loop great opportunity to explore the forest's diverse flora and fauna while enjoying a moderate hike. The trail is well-maintained and accessible for most hikers. Be sure to bring bug spray and sunscreen, as the trail can be quite sunny and mosquito-heavy during the summer months. And keep an eye out for the occasional wildlife sighting, including deer, turkey, and various bird species.
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Three Cornered Pond is a scenic small pond in the Myles Standish State Forest. While its not a great swimming pond (there are plenty of other options near by!), it is very pretty and full of lilies. You can frequently see birds and insects flying around its shores.
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The East-head Loop Interpretive Trail is a flat 2.75 miles long loop around East-head Reservoir. This lovely, scenic trail has numbered stops that correspond to this printable guide linked here: https://www.mass.gov/doc/east-head-reservoir-trail/download This self-guided trail is fun for all ages and a great way to explore this beautiful, glacier-carved pond in the Myles Standish State Forest.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available in Myles Standish State Forest?
Myles Standish State Forest offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 45 routes specifically categorized as easy. In total, the forest features more than 50 hiking options for various skill levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on easy hikes in Myles Standish State Forest?
Easy hikes in Myles Standish State Forest primarily traverse sandy, infertile soil characteristic of the unique pitch pine/scrub oak pine barrens. You'll also encounter rolling forested hills and pass by numerous glacier-created kettle ponds, offering a diverse and engaging landscape.
Are there any family-friendly easy hikes in Myles Standish State Forest?
Yes, many of the easy trails are suitable for families. The forest's generally gentle terrain and well-maintained paths make it ideal for all ages. A great option is the East Head Reservoir Trail, which is a 2.5-mile loop offering scenic views of wetlands and towering white pines.
Can I bring my dog on the easy trails in Myles Standish State Forest?
Myles Standish State Forest is generally dog-friendly, allowing leashed dogs on its hiking trails. Always ensure your dog is under control and that you clean up after them to preserve the natural environment for everyone.
Are there any circular easy hiking routes in Myles Standish State Forest?
Yes, several easy trails are designed as circular routes, perfect for a straightforward day hike. The Friends Trail Loop is a popular 2.5-mile option that leads through tall pines, providing a pleasant loop experience.
What natural features or landmarks can I see on easy hikes?
On easy hikes, you can explore the globally rare pine barrens, characterized by pitch pines and scrub oaks. You'll also encounter dozens of picturesque coastal plain kettle ponds, such as College Pond and East Head Pond, which are significant ecological features of the forest.
Is there parking available for easy hiking trails?
Yes, Myles Standish State Forest provides various parking areas and trailheads throughout the park, making it convenient to access the easy hiking trails. The visitor center at the Headquarters can also provide guidance on specific parking locations for different routes.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Myles Standish State Forest?
Myles Standish State Forest offers rewarding hiking experiences year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Summer is popular for combining hikes with swimming at ponds like College Pond, and winter offers serene, quiet landscapes, though some areas might experience frost pockets.
What do other hikers say about the easy trails in Myles Standish State Forest?
The easy trails in Myles Standish State Forest are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 10 reviews. Hikers often praise the quiet woodlands, the unique pine barrens ecosystem, and the scenic kettle ponds.
How long do easy hikes typically take in Myles Standish State Forest?
Easy hikes in Myles Standish State Forest vary in length and duration. For example, the East Head Reservoir Trail takes approximately 1 hour to complete, while the Bentley Loop Trail – Myles Standish State Forest, a longer easy option, can take around 1 hour 50 minutes.
Are there any unique ecosystems to explore on these trails?
Absolutely. Myles Standish State Forest is renowned for its globally rare pitch pine/scrub oak pine barrens, one of the largest north of Long Island. You can also discover ecologically significant coastal plain kettle ponds and even rare 'frost pockets' where cold air collects, offering a unique natural experience.
Where can I find visitor information or trail maps?
You can find visitor information and self-guided trail brochures at the Myles Standish State Forest Headquarters. This is a good starting point for updated information and to plan your easy hike.
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