Breakheart Reservation

Breakheart Reservation spans 652 acres across rocky terrain with Pearce Lake and Walden Pond as its main water features. The landscape includes hardwood forests, hilltops, and several trail systems for different recreational activities.

The Metropolitan District Commission acquired this land in 1934 to transform a former private hunting retreat into a public recreation area. Charles Eliot, a landscape designer, oversaw the development and layout of the park.

Native Americans used the land along the Saugus River for hunting, camping, and fishing from the Paleo-Indian period through Woodland times.

Visitors can access swimming areas at Pearce Lake and trails for hiking and mountain biking throughout the grounds. The visitor center provides maps and information to help you plan your time.

In 1900, a murder took place at Breakheart Hill Farm when caretaker John Best killed George Bailey and disposed of the body in Floating Bridge Pond. This dark event remains part of the land's story today.

Location: Saugus

Location: Wakefield

Inception: 1934

Architects: Charles Eliot

Website: https://mass.gov/locations/breakheart-reservation

GPS coordinates: 42.48750,-71.03472

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:51