Highlight • Viewpoint
Peters Hill
Cycling
5.0
(13)
Road cycling
5.0
(6)
Peters Hill is a prominent viewpoint and natural drumlin located within the expansive Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University in Boston, Massachusetts. Rising to an elevation of approximately 240 feet (73 meters), it stands as one of the highest points in the Boston area, offering a unique blend of urban vistas and botanical beauty. This significant landmark is renowned for its diverse plant collections and its role as a tranquil escape within the bustling city.
Visitors consistently praise the fantastic panoramic…
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September 11, 2025
Cycling
•January 23, 2024
Road cycling
January 9, 2025
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Best routes near Peters Hill
3
riders
30.3km
01:50
160m
160m
5.0
(3)
32
riders
18.5km
01:10
160m
160m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(5)
30
riders
29.7km
01:47
160m
150m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 60 m
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Monday 16 March
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86 %
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Max wind speed: 31.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical duration for a walk to the summit of Peters Hill and back?
While the climb to the summit itself is relatively short, many visitors spend 1-2 hours exploring the various trails and botanical collections within the Peters Hill area of the Arnold Arboretum. The overall time depends on your pace and how much you wish to explore the surrounding gardens and historical sites.
What is the terrain like on Peters Hill, and is it suitable for all fitness levels?
The terrain on Peters Hill is generally accessible, featuring a gentle climb to the summit. The final stretch to the very top often involves a small, unpaved path. Most of the paths within the Arboretum are well-maintained, making it suitable for a wide range of fitness levels. It's a popular spot for leisurely walks and family outings.
Are there specific recommended walking routes or circular trails on Peters Hill?
Peters Hill is integrated into the extensive trail network of the Arnold Arboretum. While there isn't one single 'Peters Hill trail,' you can easily create circular walks by combining paths that lead to the summit and then loop through the surrounding botanical collections, such as the crabapple orchards or the ginkgo collection. Many hikers enjoy exploring the various paths that wind through the area, offering different perspectives of the landscape and plant life.
What are the parking options available for visitors to Peters Hill?
As Peters Hill is part of the Arnold Arboretum, parking is generally available along the perimeter roads of the Arboretum, such as Bussey Street or Centre Street. However, parking can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak seasons. Arriving earlier in the day is often recommended to secure a spot.
How can I reach Peters Hill using public transport?
The Arnold Arboretum, including Peters Hill, is well-integrated into Boston's public transport network. You can reach the Arboretum via the MBTA Orange Line to Forest Hills Station, which is a short walk from several Arboretum gates. Various bus routes also serve the area, providing convenient access to different entry points.
Is Peters Hill suitable for families with young children or strollers?
Yes, Peters Hill is considered very family-friendly. The gentle slopes and generally accessible paths make it suitable for walks with children. While the very final path to the summit might be a bit uneven for some strollers, the main routes within the Arboretum are often paved or well-packed, allowing for easy navigation with strollers.
Are dogs allowed on Peters Hill and within the Arnold Arboretum?
Yes, dogs are welcome on Peters Hill and throughout the Arnold Arboretum, provided they are kept on a leash at all times. It's a popular destination for dog walkers, offering a beautiful natural setting for pets and their owners to enjoy.
What unique natural features or botanical collections can be found on Peters Hill?
Beyond the panoramic views, Peters Hill is home to significant botanical collections, including extensive plantings of honey locusts (Gleditsia), hawthorns (Crataegus), and evergreen conifers. The gentle slopes below the summit are particularly known for their numerous fruit trees, predominantly crabapples, which offer a spectacular bloom in spring. The Arboretum's nationally accredited ginkgo collection, boasting the greatest genetic diversity of wild-collected ginkgoes globally, is also located on Peters Hill.
Are there any cafes, pubs, or accommodation options near Peters Hill for visitors?
While there are no cafes or pubs directly on Peters Hill itself, the surrounding neighborhoods of Jamaica Plain and Roslindale offer a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to pubs and restaurants. For accommodation, visitors can find hotels and guesthouses in various Boston neighborhoods, with convenient public transport links to the Arboretum.
What wildlife might I encounter on Peters Hill?
As part of a large urban green space, Peters Hill and the Arnold Arboretum are home to various common urban wildlife. You might spot squirrels, chipmunks, and a diverse array of bird species. Keep an eye out for raptors soaring overhead, and smaller mammals like rabbits. The Arboretum's rich plant life provides habitat for many creatures.
What historical significance does Peters Hill hold?
Peters Hill has a rich history, from its geological formation as a drumlin by glaciers to its early use by colonial farmers for orchards. It was added to the Arnold Arboretum in 1894 and named after Andrew James Peters, a former Mayor of Boston. A notable historical feature is the Walter Street Burying Ground, established in 1711, which is one of Boston's fifteen historic cemeteries and the final resting place for members of the Weld family, including Revolutionary War veterans.