The Esplanade – Charles River Reservation
Managed by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, The Esplanade is a three-mile expanse of parkland located along the banks of Boston’s historic Charles River. This scenic stretch expands into a 17-mile bike/running path which continues on to Watertown, then back downstream on the Cambridge side of the River. The Esplanade encompasses the Hatch Memorial Shell for concerts, Community Boating for sailing on the river, Gondola rides on the Storrow Lagoon, a children’s’ wading pool (July & August), two playgrounds, tennis courts and softball fields.During the early spring, The Esplanade becomes the unofficial training site for the Boston Marathon. At this same time, the blossoming cherry trees are a beautiful and colorful attraction. Beginning in May, events and free concerts begin at the Hatch Memorial Shell, where the famous Boston Pops July 4th concert is held annually. The wide variety of music and entertainment events bring thousands of visitors and spectators to the shores of the Charles each week. For further information on The Esplanade, call 617-727-1058.
Moore State Park
Located in Paxton, Moore State Park is a beautiful 710-acre historic landscape managed for the quiet enjoyment of its natural and cultural resources. The park, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, conserves the site of a rural, water powered mill village which was later extensively landscaped when it was transformed into a private country estate. Moore State Park opened to the public on the first day of spring in 1966.The park is noted for its 94 feet of waterfalls and cascades winding through a steep, rocky gorge and its collection of thousands of rhododendrons and azaleas, described as one of New England’s largest. A Festival of Flowers annually celebrates the peak bloom between mid-May and mid-June. In addition, visitors will appreciate the tranquil atmosphere, picturesque old sawmill, dramatic stonework, Enchanta bridge, Artist Overlook, American chestnut research orchard, and well maintained woodland trails. For further information, call 508-792-3969.
DAR State Forest
Located in the Berkshire foothills in western Massachusetts, DAR State Forest is a 2,000+ acre gem of woodlands featuring 15 miles of hiking trails, 2 lakes, a 51-site camping area (open May 4th through Columbus day week-end) and a group wilderness camping area. The original track of land (1,020 acres) that made up the original forest area was donated to the state by the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) in 1929 and became the first DAR State Forest in the country.Spring visitors come to the picturesque park to fish in Upper Highland Lake, which is stocked by Mass Wildlife with rainbow and brown trout, as well as to hike and mountain bike on the miles of trails throughout the forest. The Goshen Fire Tower is a popular destination for hikers and bikers, offering a five-state view to those who venture the climb to the top. Several other trails take visitors to "Balance Rock" as well as through several different forest types. Wildlife observation from the viewing station in the campground is a must stop for all visitors. Patrons with disabilities enjoy the accessible trail that runs along the shore of Upper Highland Lake to the wildlife viewing station.
Popular with spring campers, the campground offers modern restroom facilities and a nature center. For further information on DAR State Forest, call 413-268-7098. For information on camping in Massachusetts, call 877-422-6762 or visit the Department of Conservation's online camping information page; or you can make a camping reservation online through ReserveAmerica.com
