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Charles Ward Reservation


Highlights:

Views of Boston, bog, easy rolling hills.
Near:Andover, MA
Scenery:
Distance:4 miles round trip
Elevation Gain:450 ft
Hike Time:2 hours
Difficulty:Easy
Trail Condition:Well maintained trail
HikeType:Loop



Summary: Take the trail out of the parking lot and follow the signs to the bog. These vegetation formed islands are interesting. Return from the bog, and continue the yellow/orange trail, until you intersect with the green marked trail. Follow it in the north direction towards Holt Hill.

At Holt Hill you will find an interesting solstice that the reservation built. You may want to enjoy Boston views from there, and have a snack.

Then continue east on the blue marked trail towards Boston Hill, where you can again enjoy Boston views from the clear area found there before returning through the same trail that loops back into the Old Chestnut Street Trail (orange/yellow marked trail) that you can follow in the north direction, and then on the southwest direction around the Cat's Swamp, back to your car.

Ticks have been seen in the area, bring insect repellent that contains DEET.

Trailhead: Prospect Road, Andover and North Andover, MA
From I-93, take Route 125 north 5 mi. Turn right onto Prospect Road and follow for 0.3 mi. to entrance and parking area on right. From Route I-495, take Route 114 east 1.7 mi. Turn right onto Route 125 south and follow for 1.6 mi. Turn left onto Prospect Road and follow for 0.3 mi. to entrance and parking area (15 cars) on right. (Lat:42.6404 Lon:-71.11221)

Trail Guides for Charles Ward Reservation:
50 Hikes in Massachusetts
by Brian White (Countryman Press)

Best Seasons: Year-Round
User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Bikes,
Ranger Contact: The Trustees of Reservations 978-682-3580.
Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Jose Anes, who has posted  25 other hikes on this site. To visit this reporters web site, click here.
Trail Reviews  Submit your own review
Reviewed by Mike on 6/6/2005
A nice hike pretty much anytime of the year. Some wildlife (wild turkeys, etc.) and a nice view of distant Boston. Great place to bring a picnic lunch. Joggers do trail running here. There are maps available in the parking lot, but on a first come, first served basis.

Reviewed by JDK & AES on 7/17/2004
Great 1+hr. hike 45 min near Boston. Trails are mostly marked but the plethora of intersections can be puzzling. Bring a map and/or compass to stay oriented. Other family oriented hikers seem to like these trails (kids, dogs and couples are common). It's worth a hike.


Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site.
Keys: Massachusetts Hiking, Massachusetts Trails, Massachusetts Hikes, Essex County Hiking, Essex County Trails, Essex County Hikes

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