Summer in the Parks

BY JENNIFER C. SCHÜNEMANN

Concord is well known for its rich history and stunning natural beauty. As the warm days of summer arrive, residents and visitors alike deeply appreciate having access to national and state parks which provide a great way to get outside and enjoy nature. Here, we present the key features of two of our most popular destinations.

Minute Man National Historical Park

Welcome to one of Concord’s most popular destinations! If you are visiting Minute Man National Historical Park this summer, the park has modified its operations as we make our way out of the COVID pandemic. The park grounds and trails are open for your enjoyment – stroll the grounds, have a picnic with friends or family, or stop to learn the history presented on plaques and signage throughout the park. Three comfort stations are available during the day at North Bridge, Merriam’s Corner, and Hartwell Tavern. The North Bridge Visitor Station is now open at 174 Liberty Street, seven days a week, from 10am – 5pm. The Minute Man National Historical Park Visitor Center off Route 2A is open seven days a week from 9am – 5pm. Programs are offered daily.

Here are some suggestions if you are visiting the park:

• Walk over the Concord River on the North Bridge, site of “the shot heard ‘round the world,” featuring the famous minuteman statue

• Walk, bike, or run the Battle Road Trail. This 5.5 mile (8.9 km) historic trail follows the footsteps of British soldiers and Colonial minutemen through the battlefield and the heart of the park; today, you’ll pass many historic farms, witness structures, and serene woods; visit the website to take the cell phone tour.

• Dogs are welcome, but please pick up after them and keep them leashed, and do not leave them in your vehicle

Please follow the park website (nps.gov/mima) and social media (@MinuteManNPS) for updates and information.

©iStock.com/flySnow Wikimedia Commons

Walden Pond State Reservation – Swimming, Boating, and Hiking

A visit to Walden Pond State Reservation will bring you back in time to the mid-1800s, where you can experience the connection with nature that inspired Henry David Thoreau’s “Walden.” Bring the family and enjoy a day of swimming, walking the trail that loops around the famous pond, or boating out on the water. You can also visit the replica of Thoreau’s single-room cabin where he took inspiration for his work. Restrooms and changing stations are available at the park.

There are wonderful exhibits at the Visitor Center, which is open 10am – 4pm daily. And The Thoreau Society Gift Shop is a great place to find a book, postcard, poster, or t-shirt to remember your visit. They are open 10am – 7pm daily.

Summer is a busy time, so it’s important to plan ahead. A state mandate limits the number of people allowed on the property at any one time to 1,000 and is strictly enforced. COVID guidelines may further limit capacity and are changing as the state reopens. It’s a good idea to check before heading to the park by calling 978-369-3254 or by following their Twitter account @waldenpondstate.

Life guards are on duty Memorial Day to Labor Day – please check the website for specific days and hours. There is a daily parking fee of $8 for Massachusetts license plates, $30 for all other plates. To protect the grounds and water quality for future generations, the state only allows registered service animals. For more information, please visit mass.gov/locations/walden-pond-state-reservation.

commons.wikimedia.org