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About

Wachusett Mountain
Princeton, MA, and Westminster, MA

Trailheads, measurements, times, distances, and maps are all approximate and relative to the hike(s) as shown below.

Balance Rock Trail

We had pretty bad timing for this hike - just as we began our ascent, a large system of clouds moved over the area, making a previously clear and picturesque day not so clear and picturesque. We started at the ski area base and took a very leisurely stroll up the Balance Rock and Old Indian trails to the summit.

With the exception of one moderately steep section toward the end of the Old Indian Trail, this is a very easy hike. The bare (read paved) summit allows for near 360 degree views.


Hike Ratings
Getting To Trailhead: Easy
Destination: Wachusett Mountain
Length: Easy
Steepness: Moderate
Navigation: Easy
Views: Excellent
Crowds: Heavy


Hike Stats
Date Hiked: Sunday, October 15, 2006
Hike Commenced: 11:39 AM
Parking Elevation: 1,045'
Destination: Wachusett Mountain
Ascent Commenced: 11:40 AM at Balance Rock Trail trailhead
Summit Reached: 1:22 PM
Trailhead Elevation: 1,045'
Summit Elevation: 2,006'
Vertical Gain: 1,006'
Hike Ended: 2:46 PM
Hike Vertical Gain: 1,056'



Balance Rock Trail trailhead


Wachusett summit, looking east at Boston (left) and the Blue Hills (right)




Directions to trailhead: Drive up to the top parking lot at the ski area. Trailhead is to the right of the base area complex (to the left of Maintenance).

Back to Wachusett Mountain Profile


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