Rocky Narrows preserves a beautiful stretch of the Charles River that runs through steep, wooded cliffs. Great views and a historic lookout and make this a rewarding hike. The property includes 7 miles of trail, and is a link in the Bay Circuit Trail.  When Susan and I visited, we parked at the Forest Street trailhead lot and followed the Red Trail, a loop of about 2.5 miles that includes the two overlooks and the boat landing on the Charles River. Trails were wide and rolling, with a few steep climbs. We hiked through wetland and woodland areas, which provided some great variety on our walk. There's a group camping site on the Charles for paddlers only that kids will love to visit, because you can get down right next to the water.  Call the Trustees to ask about campsite reservations.

Before going, I printed out a map from the Trustees of Reservations website, but we ended up using one from the trailhead kiosk, which was well-stocked with maps. Take notice that it's illegal to cross the train tracks that run through the very southern tip of the property.  If you park at the trailhead lot on Route 27, the trails are cut off by the tracks from the rest of the property.

Overall, Rocky Narrows is one of my favorites in Greater Boston!

Head to nearby Mass Audubon Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary.

Natick's downtown has several neat places to eat.