A 2,575-acre state reservation with over 100 miles of mixed-use trails spanning Stoneham, Medford, Malden, Melrose, and Winchester, centered on Spot Pond and its reservoirs. Stoneham's main access points sit along Woodland Road, Pond Street, and South Border Road.
What to expect
Trails
Over 100 miles of mixed-use hiking, biking, and equestrian trails of varying difficulty across the whole reservation, including the well-known Rock Circuit…
Dogs
Leashed everywhere except the designated off-leash meadow at the Sheepfold (Stoneham side).
Accessibility
Paved paths exist near the visitor center and Spot Pond boathouse area; most of the trail network is unpaved, rugged woodland trail.
Fish
Allowed Year-round per Massachusetts freshwater fishing regulations.
Kayak Canoe
Allowed Warm-weather season via Paddle Boston rentals; private motorized or unrented boats are not allowed.
Birdwatching
Allowed Year-round.
Managed by
Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR)
781-590-2100 · WebsiteWhat's here
On site
Kiosk Map Box
At the Botume House Visitor Center.
Paddle Boston at Spot Pond
seasonal · True
Worth knowing
- Free DCR parking areas serving the Stoneham side include the Sheepfold lot, Botume House/Virginia Wood on Woodland Road, a Pond Street pull-off near Stone Zoo, and additional lots along South Border Road and Lynn Fells Parkway.
Common questions
Can I rent a kayak on Spot Pond?
Yes, Paddle Boston runs a seasonal rental dock on Spot Pond in Stoneham for kayaks, canoes, rowboats, and sailboats (sailboats require a season pass).
Is hunting allowed in Middlesex Fells Reservation?
DCR's general hunting-in-the-parks policy allows hunting at many DCR properties but notes some have special restrictions, and no Fells-specific hunting season or prohibition notice is posted.
Is there an entry fee at Middlesex Fells Reservation?
No, entry is free.
Can I bring my dog to Middlesex Fells Reservation?
Leashed everywhere except the designated off-leash meadow at the Sheepfold (Stoneham side).
Is Middlesex Fells Reservation wheelchair accessible?
Paved paths exist near the visitor center and Spot Pond boathouse area; most of the trail network is unpaved, rugged woodland trail.
What rules should I know at Middlesex Fells Reservation?
Informal swimming and intensive fishing still occur along parts of the Spot Pond shoreline despite the water-supply protections. Dogs must be leashed everywhere except the Sheepfold off-leash meadow. Private motorized or non-rental boats are not allowed on Spot Pond to protect water quality.