Pole Hill

This hiking area is fascinating because of the ruins that can be found here. They don't really stand out, like a foundation stone or anything, but you can sort of make out where the trail to an old dance hall used to be, and the shape of an oval track that used to be used for foot races. All of that closed after a murder--all the more intriguing.

It provides access to the commuter rail (the tracks, not a stop), which is always interesting to walk on. It's a good opportunity to get that "planking" shot for your Instagram account.

The entrance to the hike is at the end of Pole Hill Drive. It's very clearly marked. There are some picnic tables at the base of the trail to the dance hall. Hiking trails are well marked inside the park.

In July, around mid-afternoon, the entire hike was swarming with gnats and the like. My family was constantly swinging their arms. Or just snacking as we walked.

The main trails are hard to miss but some of the smaller spurs can easily be overlooked.