Walden Pond in Massachusetts

Trip Overview

Walden Pond has such a rich history. Once the home to writer and naturalist Henry David Thoreau, it is now a public state reservation, complete with boat launch, beach and miles of walking trails. They have a visitor's center, a replica of Thoreau's home, and a marker of the original site of the home in the woods.

The pond has the clearest water I've ever seen in nature. It's warm in the summer and very refreshing to take a dip. On our trip we paddled to a shore on the opposite side of the beach and took a private dip in a secluded cove. Little fish swim around your feet, and you can see the bottom up until 4 or 5 feet deep.

It's not surprising to be paddling in the middle of the lake and see someone swim by. It is a wonderful place to kayak, swim, or just hang out and enjoy nature.

Accommodations:

• Accessible Beaches
• Accessible Restrooms
• Non-motorized boating
• Boat Ramp
• Canoeing
• Fishing
• Hiking
• Historic Site
• Picnicking
• Skiing (Cross-Country)
• Swimming
• Walking Trails

They close if the visitors exceed 1,000. Call ahead to see if they are open. (978-369-3254) If not they usually reopen at 5 p.m.

Fees:

$5.00 parking for the whole day.

Directions:

Take Route 2 West, at 3rd set of lights take a left onto Route 126 South. You will see a big sign that says "Walden Pond, State Reservation" Parking is 1/4 mile on the left. 5 dollars for the day.