Boston and its surrounding areas are looking gorgeous right now. As the leaves continue to turn, New England will be painted with astonishingly intense color, and if you’re a fan of leaf peeping, you’ll want to soak in that sight. We’ve put together a 74-mile drive that links together some of the prettiest places to visit this fall. For your convenience, this route is a loop so you can hop on at the point nearest you. The actual drive time is estimated at 2 hours and 38 minutes (providing you don’t attempt this in rush hour)!
1. Arnold Arboretum
Roughly 4000 trees, shrubs, and vines grow here, making the Arnold Arboretum a destination you won’t want to miss at any time of year, but especially in autumn.
2. Mount Auburn Cemetery
You might not realize that this cemetery is also an arboretum. This is a beautiful place to stroll, not only because of the foliage, but also due to the thoughtfully landscaped grounds and ornate grave markers.
3. Walden Pond
While Walden Pond is a fun place to take a dip in summer, it is at its most breathtaking when the leaves are changing. Walk the loop trail around the pond or just gaze into the gently rippling waters.
4. Callahan State Park
This day-use area offers easy hiking and wide trails that are perfect for families or those newer to hiking. A mixture of woods, water, and open space, Callahan State Park is a relaxing spot that's well worth a visit.
5. Cochituate State Park
It’s tough to feel stressed when you’re surrounded by water, and since this park centers around three connected ponds, you’ll discover tranquil views in all directions. Whether you’re here to fish or mosey through the trees along the 1.5-mile long Snake Brook Trail, this pocket of nature is a delightful place for leaf peeping.
6. Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary
Woods, marshes, and bogs are all nestled inside this Mass Audubon site, making it an ideal for viewing foliage, as well as some of the 150 different types of birds here. Keep your eyes open and you may be rewarded with sightings of dragonflies, turtles, and even otters.
7. Noon Hill Reservation
Climb to the summit of Noon Hill for panoramic views of the treetops, where, if you’re lucky, you may spy migrating raptors in fall. Trail traffic is typically light along this roughly 2-mile loop. (It’s a good idea to wear bright colors because bow hunting is also allowed here, except on Sunday.)
8. Noanet Woodlands
Filled with natural beauty,
Noanet Woodlands is a restful oasis that contains the ruins of an old mill, several ponds, and lots of opportunities to admire vibrant foliage.
Even if you don’t want to venture beyond the city, you can always wander through Boston’s stunning tunnel of trees this fall.
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