Burncoat Hill Loop

The Burncoat Hill Loop begins at the Burncoat Pond Wildlife Sanctuary trailhead and follows the Flat Rock Trail east through hardwood and white pine forest. A short spur just before Kalmia Loop leads to a large boulder with panoramic views over the northern cove of Burncoat Pond. After returning from the overlook, head north on Laurel Loop, where the trail winds through a thick understory of mountain laurel and offers a good chance of spotting deer or wild turkey in the surrounding woods. At the next junction, turn left onto the Midstate Trail and begin a steady climb over Burncoat Hill. The trail heads west along the ridgeline before curving south through mixed forest and wetland habitat. After descending the hill, remain on the Midstate Trail as it leads back to the trailhead. This moderate route combines the sanctuary’s most scenic forest paths with a quiet summit and is a rewarding half-day hike in central Massachusetts.