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Using a few different trails (and one road,) run a nice loop up and down Mt. Wachusett.


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Map Key

3.6

Miles

5.7

KM

81%

Runnable

1,990' 607 m

High

1,260' 384 m

Low

832' 254 m

Up

825' 251 m

Down

9%

Avg Grade (5°)

56%

Max Grade (29°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Lake · Views

Overview

This route has a little bit of a scramble up some rocky sections on the way up to the summit after a really nice viewpoint. The way back down is extremely friendly with gentle grades and gorgeous leafy scenery.

Description

Park on Westminster road by the Harrington Trail. You'll probably see some other cars parked along the road.

Follow the Harrington Trail north all the way to the summit. About 3/4 of the way up there is a little spur to the right that takes you to the best (uncrowded!) viewpoint. You'll only spot the "vista" sign if you happen to sit on a rock and face downhill at the right moment (as I happened to) so keep an eye out for it!

After the vista you'll cross Administration Road. Continue on Harrington Trail; there is some rock scrambling, but plenty to grab onto, though this could be a little treacherous in wet conditions.

At the summit, take a break from the run to wander around (and count the number of people who say "I think that's Mt. Manadnock in the distance!"). Then cut across the parking lot and find the Mountain House Trail. At the first major junction, split from the Mountain House Trail onto the Jack Frost Trail. There is one somewhat steep section, but footing is well maintained and we had no issues. Be a little wary of loose rocks.

At the next junction, split off onto the High Meadow Trail. This will take you to Echo Lake, where there's a nice wall to sit on and hang out. We saw some amazing dragonflies and salamanders!

Continue on Echo Lake Road around the lake (across a small bridge) until you can pick up the Echo Lake Trail heading south. Shortly, this will leave you out on Westminster Road. Take a right to run along the road (you'll pass two gated trails) back to the car.

Flora & Fauna

Saw some really nice ferns on the way down, and some great blue dragonflies near a small lake.

Shared By:

Jess Scolnic

Trail Ratings

  4.2 from 9 votes

#2903

Overall
  4.2 from 9 votes
5 Star
33%
4 Star
56%
3 Star
11%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Recommended Route Rankings

#19

in Massachusetts

#2,903

Overall
17 Views Last Month
9,103 Since Aug 7, 2017
Intermediate Intermediate

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10%
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Photos

Chilling next to the Koi pond on the summit of Mt. Wachusett.
Mar 9, 2017 near Princeton, MA
Clearing early during the ascent.
Aug 11, 2017 near Princeton, MA
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Check-Ins

Jul 15, 2023
Hayley Kunkle
1h 01m
Sep 8, 2018
Michelle Bourget
3.6mi
Jul 30, 2018
Lea Giguere
3.6mi
Jul 20, 2018
Michelle Bourget
First time up Wachusett. Gorgeous trail; really enjoyed cruising down the Jack Frost portion.
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