Moore State Park Day Trip
Welcome to Moore State Park in Paxton, Massachusetts
May 2022 Update: Spring Pops at Moore State Park
For folks following my Instagram page, you know I’ve visited Moore State Park on afternoon work breaks a couple of times this spring. It’s the best spot in Central Massachusetts for easy hikes in serene, colorful nature.
For an incredible view, walk left out of the (free) parking lot onto the paved trail about one-quarter mile to a stone path leading you to the restored bridge and overlook at Eames Pond. This covered overlook has several chairs to sit and enoy the vista, and families will picnic on either side.
And spring colors are popping right now with rhododendrons lining the paved path to the pond and further down to the sawmill building. With multiple, relatively flat and easy trails and viewing areas by both the pond and old sawmill building, Moore State Park is a great, accessible destination for getting out in nature and family excursions with young kids (strollers are fine on the paved trail).
There are lots of unique spots and angles for photography as well. Looking up at the overlook at the base of the first waterfall is one of my favorite spots.
July 2021 Update: The Restored Bridge by Eames Pond at Moore State Park
On a recent Friday evening, the walk from the paved parking lot on Sawmill Road to the restored bridge by Eames Pond was so serene. The area by the bridge has been newly landscaped, and there are several chairs under the covered structure to sit and see the views. And the water fall under the bridge was flowing!
Originally home to saw and grist mills built between the 18th and 20th centuries, Moore State Park in Paxton, MA offers a variety of hiking trails and scenic views, including waterfalls. It is great for leisurely trail walks, family gatherings and photography enthusiasts. During the late spring, rhododendrons and azaleas in bloom offer a vibrant nature experience.
Moore State Park location | Trail map
Driving on Route 31 in Paxton, MA, turn onto Mill Street and head to the recently paved parking lot on the left. Further down the road is handicap accessible parking closer to the waterfalls.
Parking is free at Moore State Park all year round.
How to get to Moore State Park (Paxton, MA)
Drive to Worcester, MA and go to route 122, which is called Pleasant St. in the city. Take 122 west to Route 31 in Paxton, MA. Turn left onto route 31 (there is a stop light) and then veer right onto Mill St. You can get to route 122 from either the Interstate 290 or 190 highways. Note Route 122A is different than 122; if you drive on 122A, you will eventually connect with Route 31 in Holden, MA. Turn left onto Route 31 and follow it all the way to Paxton, MA, continuing until you turn right onto Mill St.
What to see at Moore State Park
Taking a casual walk to check out the scenery, turn left out of the parking lot onto the paved path hiking trail, which puts you back on Mill St.
This paved hiking path is wide, easy to maneuver baby carriages or wheelchairs and buttressed by rhododendrons. As you follow the path, there is a pond (called Eames Pond) on your right, and a bit further up, you’ll reach an overlook area with a covered, barn structure and terrific views of the pond.
Tip: Eames pond is a great opportunity for reflection photography on sunny days with clouds.
At the base of the barn is the first of two small waterfalls, which are part of the preserved sawmill property. Follow this waterfall back onto the paved path, which slopes down to the mill building. Along the way to your left, there is another waterfall and then – at the sawmill building – a third waterfall. Walk onto the small bridge for 180-degree views of the waterfalls and mill building.
For hiking enthusiasts, there are a few interconnected, dirt trails taking you by the pond, through wooded areas, and/or a field with a variety of scenery. These hiking trails are mostly flat and well maintained with gradual elevations in parts, and you will encounter a few rocks or bumps depending on the trail you hike. Use this Moore State Park trails map to plan your visit.
During the fall, the path down to the old mill building offers great opportunities to take in fall foliage. Walk down to the small footbridge and continue on a flat dirt path to go alongside the mill.
Tip: Stop at the base of the first waterfall on your left to see the preserved mill in the distance and for nature reflection pics.
Tip: In spring, continue over the small foot bridge onto the azalea path, which is a quick walk through a multitude of azaleas.
Tip: Moore State Park is a popular Massachusetts state park, and the parking lot is typically full by late morning, especially on weekends. If you prefer a less-crowded experience, visit in the early morning or late afternoon and avoid Saturdays from spring through fall.
