Highlight • Lake
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Lake Quannapowitt is a prominent natural lake situated in Wakefield, Massachusetts, within Middlesex County. This expansive body of water, spanning approximately 250 to 254 acres with an elevation of 27 meters, is an impounded kettle hole formed by glaciers. Located about 10 miles north of Boston and easily accessible off Route 128, the lake is historically significant, named after Quonopohit, a Naumkeag Native American man, and is emptied by the Saugus River.
Visitors consistently praise Lake Quannapowitt for its popular…
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March 23, 2022
Road cycling
August 13, 2020
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April 28, 2022
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Best routes near Lake Quannapowitt
8
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41.5km
01:51
180m
180m
1
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58.1km
02:34
250m
250m
5.0
(2)
26
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Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Details
Informations
Elevation 30 m
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The paved loop trail around Lake Quannapowitt is approximately 3.1 to 3.6 miles long. For an average walker, completing the entire loop typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours at a leisurely pace. Runners and cyclists can complete it much faster, often within 20-40 minutes depending on their speed.
Yes, parking is available in several spots around the lake. The most prominent parking areas are located near the Wakefield Town Common on the southeastern shore. Additional parking can often be found near the various parks and access points along the loop. Arriving earlier in the day, especially on weekends or during summer, is recommended as spots can fill up quickly.
Yes, Lake Quannapowitt is a popular spot for dog walking. Dogs are generally welcome on the paved loop trail, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help maintain the cleanliness and enjoyment of the lake for all visitors.
Lake Quannapowitt is very family-friendly. The flat, paved loop trail is ideal for strollers, scooters, and young cyclists. There are also several parks with playgrounds and picnic areas located around the lake, offering great spots for children to play and families to relax. The historic bandstand on the Lower Common often hosts community events and concerts, which can be enjoyable for all ages.
Yes, Lake Quannapowitt can be visited in winter. The paved loop trail remains accessible for walking, jogging, and even cross-country skiing if there's sufficient snow. The scenic views of the frozen lake and snow-covered surroundings offer a different, tranquil experience. However, always exercise caution on potentially icy surfaces, and check local conditions before heading out.
Absolutely! The lake is rich in history. Key landmarks include the historic bandstand on the Lower Common, built in 1885, which is a central point for community events. The Quannapowitt Yacht Club, established in 1884, is the oldest inland yacht club in the United States. Additionally, the Colonel James Hartshorne House, a colonial-period home built in 1681 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is located on the lake's shores.
Lake Quannapowitt is a warm-water fishery with active populations of species such as largemouth bass, white perch, yellow perch, and bluegill. Fishing is permitted, but fish populations are generally of low density. Anglers should be aware of Massachusetts fishing regulations and obtain any necessary licenses.
Yes, the town of Wakefield abuts the southeastern shore of the lake, particularly around the Town Common. This area offers a variety of nearby amenities, including restaurants, cafes, and shops, providing convenient options for a meal or a snack before or after your visit to the lake.
Swimming in Lake Quannapowitt is not recommended and generally discouraged. This is due to historical arsenic contamination from past aquatic weed control efforts in the 1960s, which led to the closure of former beaches. Additionally, the lake experiences algae blooms, especially during warmer summer months, which can produce toxins and further impact water quality.
The lake was originally known as "Reading Pond" or "Great Pond." It was renamed Lake Quannapowitt in the 1840s or 1847 after Quonopohit, a Naumkeag Native American man. Quonopohit signed a deed to the town that would later become Wakefield in 1686, honoring his historical connection to the land.