11
hikers
Houghton's Pond to Buck Hill
01:41
6.09km
110m
Hiking
Houghton's Pond to Buck Hill offers an easy hiking experience, covering 3.8 miles (6.1 km) with a total elevation gain of 353 feet (108 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 1 hour and 41 minutes. The trail winds through a woodland path, where you will encounter…
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
319 m
Beach
Beach
1.04 km
Breeze Hill
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
2.39 km
Boyce Hill
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
3.31 km
Tip by
6.09 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
3.95 km
2.13 km
< 100 m
Surfaces
5.85 km
104 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (140 m)
Lowest point (50 m)
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Friday 29 May
22°C
11°C
54 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 12.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I park to access the Houghton's Pond to Buck Hill trail?
You can typically find parking at Houghton's Pond, which serves as a popular and accessible starting point for this hike. It's a well-known area within the Blue Hills Reservation.
How difficult is the hike to Buck Hill?
The hike to Buck Hill is generally considered moderately strenuous, featuring an invigorating climb to the rocky summit. While some parts of the broader loop are easier, the ascent to Buck Hill itself can be challenging in sections.
What is the terrain like on the way to Buck Hill?
The trail is primarily a woodland path. As you approach the summit of Buck Hill, the terrain becomes rocky. You'll also encounter large boulders, remnants of glacial activity, along the way. Some related paths around Houghton's Pond may include asphalt and gravel sections.
What are the main points of interest or viewpoints along the route?
The most notable feature is the spectacular panoramic view from the rocky summit of Buck Hill, offering vistas of Miso Hill, Magoniscook Hill, Great Blue Hill, Wolcott Hill, and the greater Boston area. You'll also pass Breeze Hill and Boyce Hill. The starting point at Houghton's Pond is also a picturesque spot with a beach and picnic areas.
How long does it typically take to complete this hike?
The Komoot tour data estimates this specific route takes approximately 1 hour and 41 minutes to complete. This duration is for the 6.1 km (3.8 mile) hike from Houghton's Pond to Buck Hill.
Is the trail dog-friendly?
Yes, trails within the Blue Hills Reservation are generally dog-friendly. However, always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them to preserve the natural environment for everyone.
What is the best time of year to hike this trail?
The trail is a popular destination year-round. The panoramic views from Buck Hill are considered incredible even in winter due to evergreen trees. Houghton's Pond offers swimming in warmer months, making spring, summer, and fall excellent choices for a full experience.
Are there any permits or entrance fees required for the Blue Hills Reservation?
No, there are typically no entrance fees or permits required to access the Blue Hills Reservation or hike this trail. It's a publicly accessible natural area.
Is the Houghton's Pond to Buck Hill route a loop or an out-and-back trail?
This specific Komoot route is an out-and-back trail. However, the hike to Buck Hill is commonly undertaken as part of the larger 3.5-mile 'Buck Hill Loop' within the Blue Hills Reservation, so you have options to extend it.
Does the trail intersect with other paths?
Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Skyline Trail, Dark Hollow Path, Angle Path, and Tucker Hill Path, offering opportunities to explore other areas of the Blue Hills Reservation.
Is this a family-friendly hike?
While the climb to Buck Hill has moderately strenuous sections, the overall area around Houghton's Pond is very family-friendly with easily-accessible paths, picnic areas, and a beach. Families with older children or those accustomed to hiking should manage the ascent to Buck Hill well.