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Full Itinerary
Extras
7:30 AM: Departure from Northeastern University
Travel Option 1: MBTA Commuter Rail. Tap here! for more details on MBTA Rail.
- Directions: Take the Orange Line from Ruggles Station to North Station, then transfer to the Fitchburg Line and get off at Wachusett Station.
- Transfer: From Wachusett Station, take a short Uber/Lyft ride (around 15 minutes) to Wachusett Mountain.
- Duration: Approximately 2 hours in total.
- Cost: $10 one-way commuter rail fare
Travel Option 2: Car Rental or Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
- Travel Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes by car.
- Cost: $15-20 (per person)
- Parking: Free parking is available at the mountain.
9:30 AM: Arrival at Wachusett Mountain Ski Area
On arrival at Wachusett Mountain Ski Area, your senses will relish the crisp, clean air, filling you with a high dose of adrenaline rush. Wachusett has something to offer for everyone depending on the season you are visiting. In Winter you will be welcomed by the sight of snow-covered peaks. Summer will offer you eye-catching lush greenery while in Fall you will be immersed in the vibrant foliage.
9:45 AM: Morning Hike on the Mountain
Overview: Start with a hike to the summit of Wachusett Mountain. There are several trails with varying difficulty levels and a unique unforgettable scenic journey. This morning hike will give you a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to reach the mountain which stands at 2,006 feet and enjoy the panoramic views from there.
Popular Trails:
- Pine Hill Trail: Spanning 1.4 miles (round trip), this route passes through dense woodlands and is one of the steeper trails leading to the summit but features well-maintained stone steps.
- Balanced Rock Trail: Offers a relatively short hike that leads the visitors to the mountains’s special landmark: Balance Rock.
- Old Indian Trail: This moderate hike passes through a dense forest area.
- Harrington Trail: A moderately challenging Trail, that offers a more direct route to the summit.
- Wachusett Redline Hike: 17.6 miles, covers every path on the mountain, and operates for seasoned hikers.
Cost: Free to access the trails.
Duration: 1.5 hours.
Directions: Trail maps are available at the Wachusett Mountain Visitor Center.
Note: Make sure to take the trail maps that are available at the visitor center.
11:45 AM: Descend and Return to Base
Location: Wachusett Mountain Summit
Overview: Take a moment and breathe!
At the summit, you will get to experience a deep gratitude for peace which is somehow lost in our daily hustle and bustle of life. They say you can find yourself in the calmness of the mountains. Well, it's Time to Prove it!
Enjoy the panoramic views of Massachusetts, sweeping vistas of surrounding hills, and even the Boston skyline on clear days. It’s an ideal spot for clicking your best shots and soaking in the tranquillity of nature.
Cost: Free.
Duration: 30 minutes.
11:45 AM: Descend and Return to Base
Overview: Head back down the mountain using the same trail or an alternate route, like the Harrington Trail. It’s known for its challenging terrain but is rewarding as the views along the way are beautiful.
Duration: 1 hour.
12:45 PM: Lunch at Mountainside Bakery and Café
Location: 213 Mountain Rd, Princeton, MA 01541
Overview: Mountainside Bakery and Cafe is a cozy spot for a perfect post-hike lunch. Try their sandwiches, burgers, or soups, which are popular with hikers and locals alike. Click here! for more details.
Recommended Dish: Frosted Cinnamon Buns
Cost: $15-20 per person.
Directions: A quick 4-minute drive from the mountain. Rideshare is recommended if you don’t have a car.
Note: The cafe operates from Wednesday to Saturday between 8 AM to 3 PM.
2:00 PM: Afternoon Scenic Chairlift Ride (Seasonal)
Location: Wachusett Mountain
Overview: If visiting during fall or summer, take the scenic chairlift ride to enjoy spectacular views of the foliage or lush summer greenery. You will be filled with exhilaration after enjoying the sweeping views of the surrounding forests and valleys. This is a relaxing way to take in the sights after your exhausting hike.
Cost: $15 for a round-trip chairlift ticket. For more details Tap here!
Duration: 30 minutes.
Note: Check the chairlift availability, as it may not operate year-round.
2:45 PM: Visit to Wachusett Brewing Company
Overview: Stop by this local brewery for a tasting session. This place has been crafting beer since 1994 and tends to offer a variety of craft beers. At their Brew Yard, you can taste these beverages on tap with a rotating food menu. This golden opportunity is for people above 21. Those under 21 need not worry; they also serve snacks and soft drinks.
Popular Drinks: Their popular beverages include MASSIVE Haze New England IPA, Blood Orange Wheat Ale, MASS Soul IPA, and Scratch Raspberry Margarita. Tap here! To explore more options.
Cost: $10-15 for a tasting.
Duration: 1 hour.
Directions: A 15-minute drive from Wachusett Mountain.
4:00 PM: Explore Downtown Princeton or Relax at Dunn State Park
Option 1: Explore Princeton: Stroll around the quaint downtown area with small shops, a local bookstore, and cafes. Visit Palmer Square, a go-to destination for shopping and dining. Downtown Princeton offers a perfect place for visitors to have a memorable experience.
Option 2: Dunn State Park: Are you a nature enthusiast? If Yes, then this place is waiting for you. Dunn State Park offers beautiful trails and a peaceful lake. It’s a popular outdoor spot to unwind and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and its surroundings. This is a perfect must-visit spot for reflecting on your day.
Cost: Free.
Duration: 1 hour.
Directions from Wachusett Brewery: 10-20 minutes by car, depending on the chosen destination.
5:30 PM: Dinner at Blueprint American Bar and Grill
Overview: Enjoy classic American dishes at Blueprint, a popular spot among locals. This place offers a good range of American comfort foods and is popular for its welcoming atmosphere. Get yourself a relaxed meal and enjoy live music.
Recommended Dishes: Popular dishes include Chicken Wings, Fried Fish Tacos, and Avocado Tower. For more details check out their menu here!
Cost: $20-30 per person.
Directions: A 10-15 minute drive from Dunn State Park or Princeton
6.30 PM: Return to Boston
- Option 1: Take an Uber/Lyft back to Wachusett Station and board the MBTA Commuter Rail back to Boston.
- Option 2: Rideshare or car rental for the return journey.
- Travel Time: Approximately 1.5-2 hours.
- Cost: $10 for the commuter rail
Trip Summary
7:30 AM: Departure from Northeastern University
9:30 AM: Arrival at Wachusett Mountain Ski Area
9:45 AM: Morning Hike on the Mountain
11:15 AM: Gear Up For Breathtaking Summit Views
11:45 AM: Descend and Return to Base
12:45 PM: Lunch at Mountainside Bakery and Café
2:00 PM: Afternoon Scenic Chairlift Ride (Seasonal)
2:45 PM: Visit to Wachusett Brewing Company
4:00 PM: Explore Downtown Princeton or Relax at Dunn State Park
5:30 PM: Dinner at Blueprint American Bar and Grill
6:30 PM: Return to Boston
Packing Checklist
- Public transportation: Opt for it to save on travel costs.
- Group discounts: Check for group discounts on chairlift rides or brewery tastings if traveling with friends.
- Layered Clothes: Carry warm clothes, as the weather changes quickly on the mountain. Try to carry an extra pair of socks and gloves.
- Hiking Boots: Comfortable and sturdy shoes are highly recommended.
- Other Essential Gears: Map for hiking, Sunscreen, First-aid Kit, Water bottle, light Snack, Ski-gears (if visiting during winter).