Walden Pond
Concord, MA 01742-4511
Phone: (978) 369-3254
- Cross Street:
- Route 2
- Best of Citysearch:
- Free Attraction 2008
- Hours:
- Daily 8am-7:30pm
Editorial Review for Walden Pond – by Citysearch Staff
The Scene
Take a walk or a jog, or find a flat rock and spread out the Sunday paper--just make sure to get here early (the parking lot can reach capacity by 11am). Once you're in, there's plenty to do: Go for a swim in the clear blue water, go boating, or find a quiet cove and drop a line for trout.
The Experience
The real draw is Thoreau's cabin, in which the 19th-century writer, philosopher and naturalist lived in solitude for two years. Drop a commemorative stone on the site, a ritual since 1852. The trail that loops around the pond is about one-and-a-half miles and flat, with only a steep bank by the entrance on Route 126. The park's staff provides guided walks and educational programs. A bathhouse by the beach offers restrooms and water fountains.
Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. Any expenses are paid for by Citysearch.
Insider Tips
Know Before You GoThe grounds are limited to 1,000 visitors and 350 parking spaces (park along the road and your car will be towed), which is necessary during warm-weather season, but the park is yours in the colder months.
User Reviews for Walden Pond
09/04/2002 Posted by amsu
I would have to say that in eastern Massachusetts this nature preserve is the most peaceful place in and around Boston. Talk about good vibes, its amazing how good you feel hiking around the pond. The other place I found as peaceful was the Peace Pogoda in Leverett, MA.
Pros: Cheap, Peaceful, Beautiful
Cons: Short
07/02/2002 Posted by Shaka_X
Dont even bother going if its a weekend. Youll end up sitting in a long line of cars sweating for the opportunity to fork over $5 to park. Only go on weekdays if you want to have a good time. Why wont the state make a bigger lot? The picturesque beauty of the pond described in Thoreaus book has already been destroyed by the few tons of sand that have been dropped on the place, not to mention a boathouse, so theres no point in pretending the natural beauty is still undisturbed. Mon thru Fri only.
Pros: Close to city
Cons: Ugly, Crowded, Overused
Users Like You Also Viewed
Fenway Park
4 Yawkey Way
Boston, MA 02215-3409
