Walden Pond at Walden Pond State Reservation in Concord, Mass., takes on a different vibe in the fall. The famous pond that inspired Henry David Thoreau in the mid-1800s suddenly seems more quiet. The swimmers have found their summer pastime sunken in autumn, but the walkers and boaters see a different side of the pond that seems more in tune with its natural state. The fall colors shine, the crisp feel in the air refreshes and the clear, sharp color of the pond and sky often replace the summer haze.
Yes, Walden Pond serves as a prime New England tourist attraction, but you’d never know it in the fall. The loudest people find travel joy elsewhere while those who find the simplest joys in life quietly unite here. Once walking the memorable 45-minute hike around the pond, the absence of man-made noise disappears from a overwhelming 21st century world. It’s just you, Mother Nature in its finest form and a cast of other respectful visitors — some writers, artists, kayakers and meditators — enjoying a location looking like something out of a storybook. Consequently, Walden Pond fall travel brings out the best personality of this magnificent body of water. Come take a look at this beautiful pond initially created as a kettle hole by retreating glaciers perhaps as long as 12,000 years ago!
The familiar beach and pond scene upon entering Walden Pond becomes further enhanced by fall colors…
The inviting walking trail around Walden Pond comes complete with water views, dancing sunlight on a good weather day and plenty of fall color, too!
Some prefer to walk the trail. Others, however, like walking the sand around the pond…
Seeing the pond through the colored trees makes for a wonderful, scenic juxtaposition…
The red colors shine while the sun reflecting on Walden Pond provides it own shine…
The chance to walk Walden Pond without the crazy tourist crowds become more apparent in the fall…
Even on the sunniest fall days, certain parts of Walden Pond look more muted in color, but that’s OK. The placid waters and pleasant forestry create magic every step of the way.
Need a place to stay near Walden Pond in Concord, Mass., too? Check out the historic Concord’s Colonial Inn in the heart of downtown Concord.
Henry David Thoreau’s former cabin site is not a typical overhyped travel attraction. In fact, it might be a little underwhelming. Nevertheless, it’s an important New England icon that pays tribute to of the pioneering free thinkers — an original essayist, poet, philosopher, abolitionist, naturalist, tax resister, development critic, surveyor, and historian! You can find at the site at around the mid-point of the walk around Walden Pond.
A walking bridge near the Thoreau site help walkers navigate better through more wooded areas...
The Walden Pond experience becomes even that more peaceful around that midway point. Boaters love the peace and quiet of this area…
Frequently, muted colors give way to brilliant foliage at Walden Pond…
Eventually, it’s back to the main section at Walden Pond with certainly no drop off in scenic views…
Mid to late October typically offers the best fall colors at Walden Pond. If you can’t make it during that time, however, no worries. Walden Pond is simply beautiful at any time of the year. I just think it’s best, though, in autumn!
Walden Pond is located at 915 Walden St. in Concord, MA. Tel. 978-369-3254. There is a nominal parking fee at the lot across the street from Walden Pond. Log onto the Walden Pond State Reservation web site for more information.
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Additional reading:
Visiting Silver Lake State Park in Hollis, N.H. during the foliage season
Non-vacation towns in New England have fall foliage, too!
40 reasons to visit Concord and Lexington