7 Best Fall Foliage Spots in New England Accessible via the MBTA Commuter Rail

Nothing beats autumn in the Northeast. Get ready to explore some of the most picturesque locations to catch vibrant fall foliage. This year, peak foliage in New England is expected to be around October 17. Chase after the fiery views of red, orange, and yellow in classic New England towns and locations with the MBTA Commuter Rail.

Don't forget to take advantage of the $10 MBTA Commuter Rail Weekend Pass, which offers unlimited rides on Saturdays, Sundays, and holiday weekends for just $10. Happy exploring!

by Yelena Nicolle Salvador

Note: These experiences are just a short ride away from the closest MBTA station. Take a ~15-minute rideshare with friends and family, hop on a bike, walk, or consider other eco-friendly options after taking the Commuter Rail.

1) Blue Hills Reservation

Where: Milton

Closest Commuter Rail Station: Readville

Info: Hop on the Fairmount Line and enjoy panoramic views of the Boston skyline with beautiful fall foliage. There are plenty of beginner-friendly to advanced hiking and biking trails, so put on comfy walking shoes and explore this park of 7000 acres. 

2) Walden Pond

Where: Concord

Closest Commuter Rail Station: Concord

Info: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and spend time in nature just as Henry David Thoreau intended. With the Fitchburg Line, you can get to Walden Pond and take a fall walk around this calming body of water. Take a break on the tiny beach while soaking up the views of the fiery foliage. 

3) World’s End

Where: Hingham

Closest Commuter Rail Station: Nantasket Junction

Info: Have you ever been to the end of the world? Take the Greenbush Line to visit World’s End, and hike the old carriage paths that connect the four drumlins. While enjoying the fall foliage, you can explore the meadows, woodlands, and marshes, and the views of Weir River, Hingham Harbor, and the Boston skyline. 

4) New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill

Where: Boylston

Closest Commuter Rail Station: Grafton

Info: Take the Worcester Line to the iconic NE Botanic Garden at Tower Hill for a fall day trip. Explore the gardens and walking trails that will give you one-of-a-kind views of the Wachusett Reservoir. Get lost amongst the plants, wander through the red and orange trees, and check out the current art exhibits on display.

5) deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum

Where: Lincoln

Closest Commuter Rail Station: Lincoln

Info: Nothing is more perfect than a fall day full of fiery foliage and art. Hop on the Fitchburg Line and explore the deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum, a 30-acre park where you can stroll around to hunt for over 60 sculptures. Be sure to head to the museum's roof deck for sweeping views of the Sculpture Park, Flints Pond, and the surrounding forest. 

6) Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary

Where: Lincoln

Closest Commuter Rail Station: Lincoln

Info: Mass Audubon’s Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary will provide you with a unique autumn day trip. Enjoy peaceful views of fall foliage while learning about life on a working farm that doubles as a wildlife sanctuary. Take the Fitchburg Line, say hello to the farm animals, and explore the grounds with one of their hiking trails. 

7) Rock Meadow Conservation Area



Where: Belmont

Closest Commuter Rail Station: Waverley

Info: The Fitchburg Line can take you to this conservation area that’s full of greenery. Explore the Belmont Victory Gardens and the views near Beaver Brook Pond. This area connects to the Beaver Brook Pond North Reservation to give you plenty of walking trails to enjoy.

BONUS: 7 Most Scenic Train-accessible Hiking Trails Outside of Boston

Info: Fall foliage is guaranteed on one of these hiking trails. Go leaf peeping and explore the different outdoor community spaces outside of Boston. Put on your walking shoes and get ready to connect with nature. 

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