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Walden Pond State Reservation

Address

915 Walden St., Concord, MA 01742
Directions 

Phone

(978) 369-3254

Online

walden.pond@state.ma.us
View a trail map  Download brochure  Suggested hikes  Self-guided opportunities  One-way trail loop system to promote social distancing  Woods Path and Thoreau house site closed for accessibility improvements to house site and trail 
Accessible
Historic site
Get Directions to Walden Pond State Reservation 

Details

Overview

Let a visit to Walden Pond bring you back in time to the mid-1800's. Experience the connection with nature that inspired Henry David Thoreau's Walden. Enjoy a day of swimming, walking around the famous pond or boating out on the water. Also be sure to visit the replica of Thoreau's single-room cabin.

Organized groups must call in advance to make a reservation. Park hours vary seasonally.

Hours

Sunday - Saturday:
8:00 am-5:30 pm

Visitor Center

Walden Pond Visitor Center and the Thoreau House Replica CLOSED to aid in the prevention of spreading COVID-19

Boat ramp

Opens automatically at 5am. The gate locks at 5:30pm. All cars must be out of the lot at this time.

Parking

Parking is located in the large lot off Rt. 126

MA resident  $8

Non-MA resident  $30

Resident and non resident status is determined by the vehicle license plate

Annual and senior passes NOT sold in park, use link below to purchase a pass:

Get a parking pass for Massachusetts state parks

Get a lifetime senior parking pass (MA residents)

Activities

Children swimming

Swimming

Cool off from the summer heat in this 102-foot deep pond created by a melted glacier.
A person walking.

Hiking & walking

Take a peaceful stroll along the pond or on one of the trails through Walden Woods.

Facilities

  • Boat ramp
  • Picnic areas - CLOSED to aid in the prevention of spreading COVID-19
  • Restrooms
  • Visitors center (CLOSED to aid in the prevention of spreading COVID-19)
  • 4 electric vehicle charging stations available when the park is open
    • stations are first come, first serve
    • visitors must pay a parking fee to use the parking lot

Accessibility

  • Accessible beaches
  • Accessible boating
  • Accessible education programs
  • Accessible restrooms
  • Accessible trails

Learn about DCR's Universal Access Program

Restrictions

  • No dogs or pets 
  • No fires or grilling
  • No camping
  • No bikes on trails
  • No alcoholic beverages
  • No gasoline engines
  • No hunting
  • No blow-up water toys
  • No parking on the streets
  • No drones
  • No hammocks

More info

The parking lot will be closed once it reaches capacity. Call park staff at (978) 369-3254 before heading to the park to make sure lot is not full.

The Walden Pond State Reservation Visitor Center is CLOSED to aid in the prevention of spreading COVID-19

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