Recreation

Skiing and Hiking

Algonquin for “the great hill,” Wachusett Mountain Ski Area (499 Mountain Rd., Princeton, 978/464-2300, www.wachusett.com [1], 9 a.m.–10 p.m. Mon.–Fri., 8 a.m.–10 p.m. Sat.–Sun., $29–54 adults, $20–40 seniors and children 6–12) is a magnet during winter months for skiers who can’t make it up north to Vermont [2] or New Hampshire [3]. While the mountain can’t compare, of course, to its northern cousins, its 22 trails provide enough terrain to occupy a range of skill levels, including some decent moguls and challenging vertical runs. In the summer months, the trails are open to hikers, who delight in the views from the highest mountain for miles around.

Camping

One of the prettiest campgrounds in the state, Wells State Park (Rte. 49, 508/347-9257, www.mass.gov [4]) offers 60 sites in an attractive woodland setting within easy striking distance of Worcester [5] and Sturbridge [6]. A lake on the premises is for the exclusive use of campers.