Plan Your Visit The Blue Hill Observatory welcomes thousands of visitors each year — come for the science, stay for the sweeping…
The Blue Hill Observatory welcomes thousands of visitors each year — come for the science, stay for the sweeping 360° views from the summit of Great Blue Hill.
Enjoy a self-guided visit to the 360° view at the top of the Observatory, the Mish Michaels Exhibit Hall, and the History Room — all on your own schedule.
A guided tour of the Mish Michaels Exhibit Hall, the History Room, and the Observer’s Room — with in-depth discussion of the equipment — followed by a visit to the top of the tower. Approximately 1 hour.
Open weekends, federal holidays & Patriot’s Day
Tours by appointment available any day of the week, year-round.
Schedule an Observatory sunset tour and short guided night hike for your next group outing. Times vary based on sunset, group size, and availability. Groups are welcome to bring their own snacks.
To schedule or inquire about pricing for different group sizes, email education@bluehill.org
Take Route 128/95 south or Route 93 south to the Route 138 exit in Canton (Exit 2). Follow Route 138 north approximately 1 mile through one traffic light to the Blue Hill Ski Area and Trailside Museum parking area on the right. Hiking trails lead to the summit from these lots.
Take Route 95 or Route 3 north to Route 93, then take the Route 138 exit in Canton (Exit 2). Follow Route 138 north approximately 1 mile through one traffic light to the Blue Hill Ski Area and Trailside Museum parking area on the right. Hiking trails lead to the summit from these lots.
The pedestrian route from the parking lot to the Observatory along the summit road is approximately one mile with an average slope of 15–20%. This road is not open to public vehicles, but special arrangements can be made for specific vehicles. Please contact us if you have concerns about reaching the Observatory.
Blue Hill Observatory is over 130 years old, built in stages on top of a hard granite hilltop. The route up to the tower includes steep slopes and rocky terrain. Many public rooms are accessible to guests with limited mobility, though some areas — including the observation room and upper tower — can only be reached by steps. Many exhibits can be moved to accessible areas, and accommodations will be made for those who cannot travel to the upper rooms.
The hilltop around the Observatory is rocky and uneven with steep slopes and abrupt level changes. Accommodations will be provided for those unable to navigate the hilltop.
For more information or to request an accommodation:
617-696-0562 ·
info@bluehill.org
The Blue Hills Reservation has prepared a map and description of the many color-coded hiking trails on the reservation. Download the Trail Map (PDF) →
Monthly Skymail, event announcements, and research summaries.
