The best walks and hikes around Watertown
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5,629
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Hiking around Watertown, Massachusetts, is characterized by urban green spaces and riverside paths. The area's terrain is generally flat, with trails following the Charles River and winding through local parks and reservations. These routes offer accessible nature experiences close to the city, featuring a mix of paved walkways, dirt paths, and boardwalks. The region provides a diverse range of areas suitable for leisurely walks and picnics.
Best hiking trails around Watertown
- The most popular hiking route is Mount Auburn Cemetery Trail, a 4.1 miles (6.7 km) trail that takes 1 hour 44 minutes to complete. This easy route explores the historic landscapes of the cemetery.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Charles River Path, a moderate 10.9 miles (17.6 km) path. It offers extensive views along the Charles River.
- Local hikers also love the Whitney Park and Charles River Loop, a 1.8 miles (2.9 km) trail leading through Whitney Park and along the Charles River, often completed in about 47 minutes.
- Hiking around Watertown is defined by riverside walks, conservation areas, and parkland trails. The network of paths provides options for various fitness levels, from short, easy loops to longer, more moderate routes.
- The routes in Watertown are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 400 reviews. More than 6,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Watertown's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
3
hikers
6.67km
01:44
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
17.6km
04:30
60m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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2.91km
00:47
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
21
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
20
hikers
4.04km
01:02
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The finish line of the Head of the Charles regatta, marked by a monument at Herter Park in Allston, signifies the Finish Area Launch Site (FALS), a designated area for launching and recovering crews during the race.
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The Charles River Greenway, aka the Charles River Bike Path, runs 23 miles from the Museum of Science in Boston to Norumbega Park in Newton. The path hugs the Charles River, passing through Cambridge, Watertown, and Waltham. It's popular with bikers, hikers, and runners.
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Stretching 80 miles from Hopkinton to Boston, the Charles River is a hub of activity, offering kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating opportunities, especially during warmer months. Its banks are lined with greenways perfect for walking and cycling, including the Charles River Reservation, which features picnic areas and wildlife habitats. Known as the "River of Song" for inspiring generations of musicians, it also holds historical significance, powering early mills and industries. Be sure to visit landmarks like the Esplanade in Boston or the Moody Street Dam in Waltham for a mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
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From this part of the Charles River Greenway, crossing onto Moody Street, you're treated to sweeping views of the Charles River—the river that powered America’s first integrated textile mill in Waltham during the Industrial Revolution.
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Charles River Canoe & Kayak in Allston Brighton is one of a few locations along the river that offers kayak rentals, sales, guided tours, trips, paddling instruction, and kids' camps. With a dock on-site, it is convenient and scenic.
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The Watertown Bridge stretches over the Charles River and connects Watertown Square to Watertown Yard in Massachusetts. Built in 1907, it features pedestrian walkways on both sides and has a history of crossings dating back to 1641. The bridge offers a scenic spot with chances to see blue herons, geese, and turtles. If it looks familiar, it might be recognized from its appearance in the opening scene of the 1994 film The River Wild, featuring Meryl Streep rowing downstream beneath it.
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The Charles River Reservation is a scenic urban escape in Boston, offering tranquil riverbanks, recreational opportunities, and lush green spaces.
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A beautiful way to explore the nature along the Charles River by bike
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many hiking trails around Watertown, MA?
Yes, there are over 290 trails to explore in the Watertown area. The majority of these are easy routes, perfect for a casual walk, but there are also dozens of moderate trails for those seeking a bit more of a challenge.
What do other hikers enjoy about the trails in Watertown?
The trails are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths along the Charles River and the peaceful atmosphere within the various parks and conservation areas, offering a quick escape from the city.
Are there any dog-friendly hiking trails in the Watertown area?
Many of the parks and reservations in and around Watertown are dog-friendly, but policies can vary. Areas like the Charles River Reservation are popular for walks with dogs, though they should generally be kept on a leash. Always check the local regulations for the specific park you plan to visit before you go.
What are some good, easy hikes for beginners or families with kids?
The area is great for beginners and families. You'll find many flat, accessible paths. A particularly good option is the Charles River Reservation loop from Mount Auburn Cemetery. It's a relatively short and flat walk with lovely river views, making it manageable for all ages.
Are most of the hiking trails circular loops?
Yes, many of the most popular routes are loops that bring you back to your starting point. This makes logistics simple. You can find everything from short park loops to longer routes that combine different paths, like the John W. Weeks Footbridges – Anderson Memorial Bridge loop from Brighton, which offers an extended walk along the river.
Can I go hiking in Watertown during the winter?
Winter hiking is definitely possible, especially on the paved and flatter trails which are often cleared or easy to navigate in light snow. Trails within parks like the Charles River Reservation can be quite beautiful in winter, but be sure to wear appropriate footwear for potentially icy or slushy conditions.
Are there any trails with waterfalls near Watertown?
The immediate hiking trails around Watertown, being mostly urban parkland and riverside paths, do not feature significant natural waterfalls. The landscape is characterized by gentle river scenery rather than dramatic changes in elevation that create waterfalls.
Is it easy to get to the trails using public transport?
Yes, one of the major advantages of hiking in Watertown is the accessibility. Many trailheads, especially those along the Charles River and at Fresh Pond Reservation, are reachable via the MBTA bus system, making it easy to plan a hike without a car.
What are the parking options for the main hiking areas?
Parking can be found at or near many of the trailheads, but it can be limited, especially on weekends. For popular spots like Fresh Pond Reservation or the Charles River paths, you may find a mix of dedicated lots and on-street parking. Arriving early is always a good strategy to secure a spot.
Are the hiking trails in Watertown free to access?
Yes, the vast majority of hiking trails in Watertown and the surrounding conservation areas and parks, such as the Charles River Reservation and Rock Meadow, are free to access for walking and hiking.
Are there any accessible trails for people with disabilities?
The Watertown Riverfront Park features a Braille Trail, designed to be accessible for the visually impaired. Additionally, many of the paved, flat paths along the Charles River are suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, offering an inclusive outdoor experience.
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