Search a hike or location

search
Best river hikes in Worcester County
Share:

Best river hikes in Worcester County

Go with the flow on these riverside adventures! From gentle streams to powerful rapids, these hikes offer constant companionship with the sound of rushing water.

Here are some great hikes to explore in Worcester County.

Most popular hikes

1

Medium

Midstate Trail via Mount Wachusett - Wachusett Mountain State Reservation

Worcester County, Massachusetts · star 4.6 (22) · 18.3 km · Est. 4 hrs 35 min

2

Easy

Midstate Trail

Worcester County, Massachusetts · star 4.6 (11) · 18.4 km · Est. 4 hrs 11 min

3

Easy

Mass Central Rail Trail

Worcester County, Massachusetts · star 4.8 (12) · 13.8 km · Est. 2 hrs 47 min

4

Easy

Blackstone River and Greenway Trail

Worcester County, Massachusetts · star 4.8 (9) · 13.4 km · Est. 2 hrs 54 min

5

Easy

High Rocks Gorge via Blackstone River

Worcester County, Massachusetts · star 4.6 (18) · 1.9 km · Est. 25 min

6

Easy

Wachusett Mountain Reservation Loop

Worcester County, Massachusetts · star 4.5 (8) · 3.7 km · Est. 48 min

7

Medium

Falulah Reservoir from Ashby West Road Out and Back

Worcester County, Massachusetts · star 4.5 (14) · 2.2 km · Est. 34 min

8

Easy

Streeter Trail, Whitin Reservoir and Midstate Trail

Worcester County, Massachusetts · star 4.5 (12) · 20.2 km · Est. 2 days

9

Easy

Wolf Hill via King Phillip's Trail

Worcester County, Massachusetts · star 4.4 (16) · 3.9 km · Est. 53 min

10

Easy

Pleasant Street via McKinstry Brook Trail

Worcester County, Massachusetts · star 4.7 (9) · 3.4 km · Est. 51 min

SHOW MORE HIKES

Reviews for river hikes in Worcester County

Santos Harber avatar

Midstate Trail via Mount Wachusett - Wachusett Mountain State Reservation

NatureScrambler18 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Jacalyn Cole avatar

Midstate Trail

MeadowRunner99 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Gordon Prosacco avatar

Mass Central Rail Trail

ScoutGraniterover43 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Carmen Willms DC avatar

Blackstone River and Greenway Trail

CascadeCairntracker56 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Anastasya Bruschi-DeJesus avatar

High Rocks Gorge via Blackstone River

BellaTreks · reviewed 10 months ago

star star star star star

Loved this! Easy for families and kids as well. A few streams with bridges and good duck, herrinf and bird spotting!

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Worcester County

What is the climate like for hiking in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts showcases a varied climate that shapes the hiking experience across seasons. Spring (March-May) offers cooler temperatures and budding vegetation, though trails can be muddy from snowmelt. Summer (June-August) presents warm, sunny days perfect for hiking, but hydration is crucial due to the heat.
Fall (September-November) is ideal for hiking with moderate temperatures and stunning fall colors. Winter (December-February) provides serene snowy landscapes for well-equipped hikers. Autumn is often recommended for the most comfortable hiking experience. Always check the weather before setting out. The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (https://www.mass.gov/orgs/department-of-conservation-recreation) and the National Weather Service (https://www.weather.gov/) are excellent resources.

Do I need a permit to hike in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, most hiking trails are open to the public without requiring permits. However, for certain activities such as camping or fishing, you may need a permit. To obtain permits and get further information, contact the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (https://www.mass.gov/orgs/department-of-conservation-recreation).

Is wild camping allowed in Massachusetts?

Wild camping in Massachusetts is generally restricted to designated campgrounds within state parks and forests. Some areas may require a camping permit. To protect the natural environment, always follow Leave No Trace principles. For camping regulations and permit information, visit the Department of Conservation and Recreation's website (https://www.mass.gov/orgs/department-of-conservation-recreation).

Are there mountain rescue services in Massachusetts?

In case of emergencies during hiking in Massachusetts, dial 911 to reach local authorities who will coordinate with the appropriate agencies for mountain rescue. The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation's Park Watch Program is also involved in rescue efforts. Visit their website for more information (https://www.mass.gov/orgs/department-of-conservation-recreation).

Are there dangerous plants in Massachusetts?

Hiking in Massachusetts, you'll find a variety of flora including oak, maple, and pine trees, along with a diverse array of wildflowers. Be aware of poison ivy, especially in wooded areas. For more on Massachusetts' flora, the Native Plant Trust's Go Botany website (https://gobotany.nativeplanttrust.org/) is a helpful resource.

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Massachusetts?

Hikers in Massachusetts might encounter white-tailed deer, squirrels, and a variety of bird species. Be mindful of ticks and mosquitoes during the warmer months. Black bears are present, though encounters are rare. The Massachusetts Division of Fisheries & Wildlife (https://www.mass.gov/orgs/division-of-fisheries-and-wildlife) provides useful wildlife information.

More hikes in Worcester County

by difficulty

by type

by activity