Massachusetts undoubtedly has some of the best hiking trails in the northeast. With trails through hills, valleys, and mountains, along the coast, around ponds, to historical sites and beyond, there are plenty of views and fascinating places to take in along the way. If you’re looking to hike to a historic site in Massachusetts, one fascinating place to visit is the Holy Hill Conservation Area in the town of Harvard.

The Holy Hill Conservation Area is home to the Holy Hill of Zion, the former worship site of the Harvard Shakers. They created their fenced-in worship site on a half-acre of land between the years 1842 and 1843.
Lee Kosewski/Google
There are approximately five miles of trails throughout the area. You'll be able to see remnants of the past which may help you picture what life was like for the Shaker community that once called this home.
AllTrails User/AllTrails
Take the easy Holy Hill Trails through the Holy Hill Conservation Area. This series of out-and-back trails experiences a moderate amount of foot traffic and an overall elevation gain of 246 feet.
Nancy Felsheim/AllTrails

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Throughout the conservation area, expect to see several historic sites like the Shaker Village house pictured here.
Nancy Felsheim/AllTrails
Starting at South Shaker Road, you'll be led to the worship site with its unique fence, part of which was reconstructed after the land was purchased by the Harvard Conservation Commission in 1972.
Nancy Felsheim/AllTrails
Depending on how far you walk, you will also encounter a stone bridge, a wood bridge, the Shaker cemetery, the Shaker herb drying shed, and the Shaker worship site.
AllTrails User/AllTrails
Taking a hike along trails through the historical sites that once belonged to the Shakers is absolutely fascinating!
Adam Williams/AllTrails

 

Would you like to hike to this historic site in Massachusetts? If you’ve been here before please tell us about your experience in the comments. To view the Holy Hill Trails map, visit AllTrails. For more information on the Holy Hill Conservation Area, visit the Harvard Conservation Trust website.

If you’re looking for some short and easy hikes in Massachusetts, click here to read about 13 Hikes Under 5 Miles. 

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Holy Hill Conservation Area, 78 S Shaker Rd, Harvard, MA 01451, USA