take a walk in maudslay state park

This park features 19th century gardens and plantings, rolling meadows, towering pines, and one of the largest naturally-occurring stands of mountain laurel in Massachusetts. Most breathtaking are the ornamental trees and masses of azaleas and rhododendrons that bloom in May and June. An excellent place for walking, biking, horseback riding and picnics. Beware a portion of the park is closed November through march due to bald eagles wintering along the river. On the nicer days of the year the park has many visiters (for good reason) but the further away from the parking lot you get the less likely you are to see other people.

Insider Tip: go to the pond (see trail map) during a summer night to see an epic firefly show

Trail map: http://www.mass.gov/eea/docs/dcr/parks/trails/maudslay.pdf