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Walden Pond State Reservation, Concord

4.3

#2 of 6 in Parks in Concord

The scenic Walden Pond State Reservation is a popular site for reflecting on nature and learning about conservation history. Writer and philosopher Henry David Thoreau lived here from 1845 to 1848, inspiring his book "Walden," which helped garner respect for the environment in the United States. The legacy of Thoreau and his book enabled the pond to achieve National Historic Landmark status, and it is credited as the conservation movement's birthplace. You can visit a replica of where Thoreau lived and follow a hiking trail to the site of the original cabin. Explore the surrounding forest, and, if weather permits, enjoy a dip in the clean pond water. In keeping with conservation efforts, the number of daily visitors is limited. To visit Walden Pond State Reservation on your holiday in Concord, and find out what else Concord has to offer, use our Concord trip planner .

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Walden Pond State Reservation Reviews

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573 reviews

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4.5

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4.9

123 likes

By nxops7 On June 20, 2018

There's no better place to experience the legendary New England foliage than Walden Pond! Lots of trails! Can't fit it all into one day! Don't worry about not finding a place to park; there's plenty p... more »
By Dennis P On June 20, 2018

I know most people use Walden Pond for a hot weather swimming spot, but I've always come for the Henry David Thoreau connection and for hiking. The rangers organize some wonderful special events and t... more »
By travellass50 On June 18, 2018

Be aware that summer time finds the locals here having a great time with lots of young children. Kayaks for rent. Great place to bring a picnic lunch. Thoreau's cabin is smaller than ever imagined. Th... more »

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By Joe Hutson On March 31, 2018

Visited during spring so it wasn’t very busy. Lots of bugs but good for a little hike. Visitors center is very modern with lots of gifts. Make sure to go inside the replica cabin and read some of his journals.

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By cat wu On November 28, 2017

Like many other reviews, this park is beautiful tho packed with people. Staff work around the gate definitely weren't that friendly. There's no shower around so if you want to swim here you need to be prepared.

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By James Redmond On January 31, 2018

Ludicrously busy when the weather is decent. Car pool if you can. Great swimming and bird watching.

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By Bruce Caisse On February 4, 2018

Lovely spot to visit and walk on a nice day. Replica of Thoreau's little cabin and a path to the actual location where the original stood.

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By Robert Greenwood On January 19, 2018

A grey cloudy day today but still a beautiful walk around the pond.

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