Noon Hill Loop

The main Noon Hill Loop is an easy hike that typically takes around 35-40 minutes to complete. This estimate is based on the 2.1 km distance and 58 meters of elevation gain.

Yes, the core Noon Hill Loop is generally considered easy and suitable for beginners and families. However, the broader Noon Hill area offers about 4 miles of trails that range from moderate to strenuous, so be mindful of which paths you choose. Some sections may involve moderate elevation gain and require sure-footedness.

The Noon Hill Loop is located in Medfield, Massachusetts. While specific parking details aren't provided, trails in the Noon Hill Reservation typically have designated parking areas near trailheads. It's advisable to check local land trust websites for the most current parking information before your visit.

The terrain is quite varied, shaped by glacial action. You'll encounter exposed bedrock, forested slopes with pine, beech, birch, and hemlock, as well as oak-hickory forests. The route also features wetlands, vernal pools, steep ravines, boulders, and rocky ledges. You'll also see old stone walls, remnants of 19th-century pastureland.

The trail offers diverse scenery, including the tranquil Holt Pond, a man-made mill pond from 1764. From the peak of Noon Hill, you'll find the Noon Hill Lookout, which provides panoramic views of rolling hills, including Walpole, Norfolk, and even Gillette Stadium. In spring, the forest floor is vibrant with wildflowers.

The Noon Hill Loop can be enjoyed year-round. Spring is particularly beautiful with wildflowers blooming on the forest floor. Fall offers stunning foliage. Winter hiking is possible, but be prepared for potentially icy or snowy conditions. Always check local weather and trail conditions before heading out.

Yes, the trails around Noon Hill are dog-friendly. However, for the safety and enjoyment of all visitors and local wildlife, dogs must be kept on a leash at all times.

Noon Hill is part of the Noon Hill Reservation, managed by The Trustees of Reservations. Generally, there are no entrance fees for day-use hiking at this reservation, but it's always a good idea to check The Trustees' official website for any updated policies or specific permit requirements for larger groups or special activities.

Yes, the trails around Noon Hill are an integral part of the larger Bay Circuit Trail, a significant 200-mile long-distance hiking route. Additionally, the Noon Hill Reservation connects to the adjacent Shattuck Reservation via a short trail across Causeway Street, allowing for extended hiking opportunities.

Absolutely! For a longer adventure, you can connect to the adjacent Shattuck Reservation via a short trail across Causeway Street. This allows you to explore additional mileage and diverse landscapes beyond the core Noon Hill Loop.

The area is rich in history. You'll encounter ancient stone walls, which are remnants of 19th-century pastureland. Holt Pond, a prominent feature, was a man-made mill pond created around 1764 and was integral to colonial-era mills. The landscape itself bears evidence of glacial formations.