View north of the Wapack Range

One of the most popular hikes in Massachusetts, Mt. Watatic stands as the southernmost summit on the Wapack Trail and lies just east of the end of the Midstate Trail. It is a classic low summit hike with a classic 270 degree panorama. The summit is not wooded which is surprising due to it's low elevation.

The Class 1 Wapack Trail is the preferred way up to the summit of Mt. Watatic. The trail is moderate with some steeper sections but nothing on the trail comes close to approaching Class 2. Toward the top the trail eases and the panorama awaits. To the north, the rest of the Wapack Range rises with the trail highpoint of North Pack Monadnock and Pack Monadnock rises in the background. To the easy most of Massachusetts hilly countryside rises. On clear day the skyscrapers of Boston can be seen. To the south lies Mt. Watchusett and it's ski run.

Due to the close proximity to Boston this mountain always has a crowd. Best time for solitude is on a winter weekday.

Getting There

TO WAPACK TRAIL TRAILHEAD: Take Route 119 through the hill country of northern Massachusetts. If coming from the east go past the town of Ashby and stay on the road past the summit of Mt. Watatic (a round and bald summit on your right). The trailhead with be on your right with marking to both the Midstate Trail and the Wapack Trail.