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Prospect Hill Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 621 Google reviews · Running trail in Waltham, Massachusetts · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Paved
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Prospect Hill Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Uphill hiking trails (some paved) and roadways lead to scenic overlooks at this hilly park with Boston views, plus a playground, picnic tables and grills.
What runners say about Prospect Hill Park
“Overall, Prospect Hill Park is an ideal location for a scenic walk, a peaceful retreat, or simply to soak in the beauty of the city and its surroundings from above.”
“Came into the park blind and wow it was a surprise, great view after a short hike and quiet enough that I come here everyweekend, set up my hammock, and read.”
WOW i was not expecting this to be an actual hiking park. Didn’t know what I was getting myself into bc I drove past it thinking it’s a flat elevation park that’s small. It’s anything but flat and the exact opposite of small. There is a small but free parking lot right at the entrance. I parked here and walked up.
I wish I had come earlier because the gate to drive to the summit closes at 7, but I was delighted to find how built up this place has become! There is a splash pad, complete with covered seating along the sides. There is a massive gated playground area. There is a gated basketball court write one hoop.
Great location park in Waltham MA. Admission is free. Multiple hiking trails (although almost all start uphill). The top offers a great view of Boston (sadly we were there on one of the days with the wildfire). Can drive all the way to the top and there is a handicap accessible trail to overlook. Definitely recommend.
Prospect Hill Park is truly a hidden gem nestled amidst the hustle and bustle of city life! The viewpoint offers an absolutely breathtaking panorama that leaves you in awe.
Trail conditions & character
“Overall, Prospect Hill Park is an ideal location for a scenic walk, a peaceful retreat, or simply to soak in the beauty of the city and its surroundings from above.”
“This park used to be a ski area back in the day so there are some steep paths going directly up from the green buildings.”
“It is a very good place for walking, it has a safe parking lot, restrooms and dog friendly.”
“Park at the bottom of the hill or drive to the top with plenty of parking options throughout the park, your choice.”
“Came into the park blind and wow it was a surprise, great view after a short hike and quiet enough that I come here everyweekend, set up my hammock, and read.”
“Plenty of trails in the woods and some paved paths for walking also observed multiple sites with picnic tables, a few pavillians and bathrooms next to the large pavilion.”
“Plenty of trails in the woods and some paved paths for walking also observed multiple sites with picnic tables, a few pavillians and bathrooms next to the large pavilion.”
“Didn’t know what I was getting myself into bc I drove past it thinking it’s a flat elevation park that’s small.”
“Can drive all the way to the top and there is a handicap accessible trail to overlook.”
Plan your run at Prospect Hill Park
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfacePaved — asphalt or concrete. Fast and predictable, runnable year-round, and fine with a stroller
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitecity.waltham.ma.us
- Phone+1 781-314-3475
Hours
| Monday | 10 am–7 pm |
| Tuesday | 10 am–7 pm |
| Wednesday | 10 am–7 pm |
| Thursday | 10 am–7 pm |
| Friday | 10 am–7 pm |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | 10 am–7 pm |
Running trails near Waltham
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
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