The best walks and hikes around Athol

Komoot features a selection of 4 hiking trails around Athol, catering to various preferences. You'll find a mix of easy and moderate routes to explore the region's natural beauty.

Yes, Athol offers several easy trails perfect for a relaxed outing or a family adventure. The High Point Trail is a great option, providing a gentle walk. Additionally, the South Athol Conservation Area (SACA) features the flat Rabbit Run Trail, ideal for an easy hike through wetlands, and the nearby Doane's Falls offers a very short, scenic walk to impressive waterfalls.

Athol is rich in scenic spots. For panoramic views, consider the Tully Mountain loop, which offers breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscape. Within the Bearsden Forest Conservation Area, ascending Round Top provides majestic views of rivers and distant mountains. The decommissioned Newton Reservoir also offers scenic hiking through oak-pine woods, especially beautiful in spring with wildflowers.

Absolutely! Just a short distance away in Royalston, you'll find the highly scenic Doane's Falls. This multi-tiered waterfall is accessible via a short, easy 0.2-mile hike, offering views of the Upper and Middle Falls, with a blue-blazed path leading to a lookout for the Lower Falls.

Athol's diverse natural areas are home to abundant wildlife. In the South Athol Conservation Area (SACA), you might spot Barred Owls, various songbirds, deer, turkeys, and a range of amphibians and reptiles. The dense forests and river valleys throughout the region also offer excellent opportunities for birdwatching and observing other animal species.

Yes, for those who prefer loop trails, the Bernard Peak Loop is a moderate option that allows you to return to your starting point without retracing your steps. The Tully Mountain loop is another popular circular route, offering a moderate trail through lush forests.

If you're looking for shorter excursions, the High Point Trail is a great choice at just over 2 kilometers. The Alan E. Rich Environmental Park also features a short walking loop along the Millers River. For a very quick and scenic walk, the trail to Doane's Falls is only 0.2 miles.

Parking is generally available at the various conservation areas and trailheads around Athol. For specific information on parking facilities, it's advisable to check local resources or the websites of the respective conservation areas, such as Bearsden Forest or the South Athol Conservation Area.

Athol offers enjoyable hiking throughout much of the year. Spring brings wildflowers like lady slippers, especially around the Newton Reservoir. Summer is ideal for lush green forests, while autumn showcases spectacular fall foliage. Even winter can be beautiful for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing on some trails, though conditions should be checked.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscape, from rolling hills and dense forests to tranquil water features, and the opportunities for wildlife observation. The variety of trails, from easy strolls to more challenging ascents, is also frequently highlighted.

For those seeking a longer and more challenging experience, the Northside Loop Trail offers a substantial distance of over 14 kilometers with moderate elevation changes. The Bernard Peak Loop is another moderate option, featuring significant elevation gain, providing a good workout for experienced hikers.

Many of Athol's conservation areas and trails are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific regulations for each location. Generally, dogs are welcome on leash in areas like Bearsden Forest Conservation Area and the South Athol Conservation Area. Always remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the trails enjoyable for everyone.

Yes, the Millers River is a central natural feature, and several trails trace its banks. Within the Bearsden Forest Conservation Area, you can follow paths along the Millers River, with opportunities to see Buckman Brook and Thousand Acre Brook. The Alan E. Rich Environmental Park also provides access to the Millers River Bluetrail and features a short walking loop along the river.