You can experience everything from rock climbing to fishing at Hammond Pond Preserve, a 1.6 mile lightly trafficked loop trail located near Chestnut Hill. This woodland park can make you fall in love with nature and its beauty can touch your soul.
It is open for visitors from sunrise to sunset, and free parking is available situated on the left when entering the The Shops at Chestnut Hill from Hammond Pond Parkway. I’d suggest you visit the pond in April when the cherry trees are all in bloom, surrounding the lovely man-made pond (only about 4 feet in depth). Its located amidst the city, but a walk around this place would give you the feeling of walking in a country-path. No matter how old you are, or whether you have any experience of trail-hiking, it is very easy to roam around in the Hammond Pond Reservation; The trails are well-marked, an kept pretty smooth so they’re great for a quick morning jog as well. There’s a variety of trails with interesting rock formations and calming landscapes. There are also some large boulders and ledges that draw some rock-climbers. However, you should be careful if it rains as there are areas that are prone to get very muddy.
The Hammond area is a great spot for a quick escape from the more urban parts of Boston. Spring, in my opinion, is the perfect time to visit Hammond Pond, particularly for the photographers, bird-watchers, and nature-lovers. The calm and tranquil atmosphere takes a heavenly turn when you walk along the trails amidst nature and the birds are chirping. The trails also connect to the larger Webster Conservation Area on the west side of Hammond Pond Parkway, and also to the lovely Houghton Garden on the north side of the MBTA tracks.
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