Chestnut Hill Reservoir

Chestnut Hill Reservoir is a water storage facility in Boston that spans roughly 95 acres between two major thoroughfares. A paved pathway circles the water for about 1.5 miles and is lined with open space and trees.

The facility was built between 1865 and 1870 to increase Boston's water storage capacity. It became part of the city's long-term plan to serve a rapidly growing population with dependable water.

The name comes from chestnut trees that once grew throughout the area. Today the shoreline draws walkers and visitors seeking a quiet place away from the city streets.

The site is accessible by several public transit stops that make it easy to reach from different directions. The paved path is straightforward to walk at any time of day and offers places to rest along the way.

The facility includes a granite chamber with Romanesque arches that 19th-century engineers designed with careful attention to detail. This striking technical structure remains visible today and shows how practical water storage was combined with thoughtful design.

Location: Massachusetts

GPS coordinates: 42.33508,-71.15848

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:53