Breakheart Reservation

The 640-acre Breakheart, located north of Boston along a wild section of the Saugus River, is practically unknown to everyone except those who live nearby. Two lakes and seven hills, each just over 200 feet tall and rising above the forest to provide views of Boston and southern New Hampshire, are located inside the hardwood forest. Both lakes are encircled by hiking trails, which also border the river and make loops throughout the park.

This state park offers a variety of trails through dense hardwood forests that range in difficulty from easy to challenging, making it great for both mountain biking and hiking. The park, which spans Saugus and Wakefield, has seven hills that provide views of Boston, New Hampshire, and central Massachusetts.

The park is traversed by the Saugus River, and trails encircle its banks. The riverbanks are popular with birders. In the summer, the park may be crowded with swimmers at the lake beaches, but even then you're likely to have its trails to yourself.

Address: 177 Forest Street, Saugus, Massachusetts