Wachusett Ski Area to Redemption Rock Hike

Quick Facts

• Distance: 4 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation Gain: ~300 feet
• Restrictions: No motorized vehicles

Trailhead

• Location: Wachusett Ski Area, Princeton, MA
• Start: Parking lot near the small pond, on the Midstate Trail (near Mountain Road)
• Google Maps link

Description

This is a walk through the woods along the Midstate trail to Redemption Rock and back. The woods are primarily pine forests with one stream crossing, a good deal of history and a few interesting side trails that can be explored.

1. Start to Donbrowo Trail

• Begin at the pond at Wachusett Ski Area.
• Follow Donbrowo Trail (parallel to Mile High Road).
• Pass Balance Rock Road and continue to Old Pine Hill Road (an abandoned road)., about two thirds of the way up to the Visitor Center area.
• Turn left through the gate, cross Mountain Road, and head into the woods.

2. Old Pine Hill Road

• The first section of this trail can be muddy in spring.
• Take the unmarked but clear trail to the left, descending to the Midstate Trail.

3. Midstate Trail to Redemption Rock and Return

• Turn right to reach Redemption Rock, a historic granite ledge.
• Enjoy the rock as a spot to climb, take photos, or have a snack. The history of the rock is engraved on the ledge and there is a kiosk to explain further.
• Return by retracing your steps along the Midstate Trail back to the ski area.

Other Hiking Options

• Shorter Option: Out-and-back on the Midstate Trail from either the Ski Area or Redemption Rock.
• Longer Option: Continue on the Midstate Trail to Crow Hill in Leominster State Forest.
• Alternative Start: Begin at Crow Hill and hike to the Ski Area and back.
• Scenic Spur: From Redemption Rock, walk 0.5 miles to Wachusett Lake, passing through historic Everettville.

Historical Notes

• Redemption Rock:
  • Site of Mary Rowlandson’s release in 1676 during King Philip’s War.
  • Maintained by the Trustees of Reservations.
  • A small sign explains the history . Link to Trustees website.
• Everettville:
  • Once a small village near Redemption Rock.
  • Served as a station on the Underground Railroad in the mid-1800s.
  • Optional spur trail to Wachusett Lake passes the tomb of Elder Everett and his wife (later moved to Princeton’s North Cemetery).

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