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Wolcott Path Loop

Blue Hills Trails

A 2.7-mile green dot loop on Wolcott Path and Puddle Path from the Trailside Museum, past a spring vernal pool.

Fall color in the Blue Hills

The Wolcott Path loop is a pleasant green dot walk through hardwood forest at the foot of Great Blue Hill. It follows Wolcott Path and Puddle Path past a large vernal pool, where frogs call in spring.

DistanceAbout 2.7 miles
TimeAbout 1.5 hours
DifficultyModerate, rolling
StartTrailside Museum north lot, 1880 Canton Ave, Milton

Trailhead parking

Directions to Trailside Museum north lot →

The route

  1. Start at the kiosk in the Trailside Museum north parking lot.
  2. Follow the green dots along Wolcott Path and Puddle Path through the hardwoods.
  3. Near intersection #1092, look for the large vernal pool. In spring, listen for frogs.
  4. Continue on the green dots back to the lot.
Pair it with the summit. The same lot is the start of the Red Dot Trail up Great Blue Hill to the Observatory.

Before you go

  • If you get lost or hurt, call 911. Give the dispatcher the four-digit number on the nearest intersection post. Those numbers match the DCR map and help responders find you. For non-emergency park concerns, DCR’s 24-hour dispatch is (508) 820-1428.
  • Before you go, share your phone’s location with a friend, and tell someone your route and when you plan to be back.
  • Carry the DCR trail map. Many intersections have a white post with a four-digit number that matches the map.
  • Wear sturdy shoes, bring water, and dress for wind on the summits.
  • The reservation is open dawn to dusk. Dogs must be leashed. Carry out everything you bring in.
  • Timber rattlesnakes and copperheads live in the Blue Hills. They are shy. Stay on the trail and give them space.

Guided hikes

Add a guided summit hike

Our staff lead groups up Great Blue Hill, connecting the trail to the landscape, the climate record, and 141 years of daily observation. Every guided hike ends inside the Observatory.

Staff-led · By appointment, any day, year-round · Observatory tour included · From $250 per group, members save

See guided hikes

FAQ

How long is the Wolcott Path loop?

DCR lists it at about 2.7 miles, taking about 1.5 hours.

Where does the Wolcott Path loop start?

At the kiosk in the Trailside Museum north lot, 1880 Canton Avenue, Milton.

When is the best time to hear the frogs?

Spring, when the vernal pool near intersection 1092 fills.

Trail details are based on the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation’s recommended color-coded hiking trails. Trails and markers change, so carry the DCR map and confirm conditions with DCR at 617-698-1802.

Then climb Great Blue Hill

The Observatory sits at the top of the same hill. Walk up and step inside.

Plan your visit See the summit now