Moose Hill and Hobbs Hill Loop

Hikers generally complete this 8 km (5-mile) loop in about 2 hours and 15 minutes to 2 hours and 22 minutes, depending on pace and stops.

While the overall loop is generally considered easy and accessible for most hikers, it does include some sections with gentle, rolling inclines and more challenging hilly parts. These are often the stone-packed remains of ancient rivers or glacial formations. It's a good option for beginners looking for a bit of a workout without being overly strenuous.

The loop is located within the Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary in Sharon, Massachusetts. You can find parking at the sanctuary's main entrance. Specific directions to the trailhead are usually available upon arrival or on the sanctuary's official website.

The terrain is quite diverse, taking you through mixed forests, past old farm fields, and sometimes across red maple swamps via boardwalks. You'll encounter both gentle, rolling inclines and some more challenging hilly sections, with faint glacial striations visible in the bedrock in places.

The sanctuary is excellent for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. Depending on the season, you might encounter vernal pools, especially in spring, which are crucial habitats for amphibians. The diverse environments, including forests, fields, and wetlands, offer a rich experience.

The trail is enjoyable year-round, but spring is ideal for spotting vernal pools and early wildflowers. Fall offers particularly vibrant scenery, especially along the Bluff Trail, with breathtaking fall foliage. Summer provides lush greenery, while winter hiking can be beautiful with snow, though conditions may vary.

Yes, the route offers several points of interest. You'll pass through the Moose Hill Reservation, and a highlight is the Moose Hill Fire Tower View, though the tower itself is usually locked. The sanctuary also features historical elements like the 250-year-old "George and Martha Maple Trees" along the Billings Loop, remnants of an old orchard, and the chimney remains of a cabin at Allen's Ledge.

Yes, this route incorporates sections of several other trails. You'll find yourself on parts of the BCT 10, the Warner Trail, the Bay Circuit Trail, and the Pine Trail during your hike.

Dogs are generally permitted on trails within the Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help maintain the sanctuary's natural beauty.

As the trail is located within the Mass Audubon Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary, there is typically an entrance fee for non-members. Mass Audubon members usually enjoy free access. It's always a good idea to check the official Mass Audubon website for the most current fee structure and operating hours before your visit.

Moose Hill is Mass Audubon's oldest and largest wildlife sanctuary, covering 1,971 acres. It boasts a rich history with signs of past human activity, including old farm fields and an orchard. The sanctuary is also known for its community involvement, such as a partnership with a local farm for an organic CSA program, blending conservation with local engagement.