If you’re craving a challenge that gets your heart pumping and legs burning, The Trustees has the hiking trails for you. From mountainous ascents to steep river gorges, we’ve compiled a list of four trails from across Massachusetts that offer the perfect mix of breathtaking views and serious workout potential. So, lace up those boots and get ready to break a sweat as you take your fitness to new heights—literally!

Chapel Brook in Ashfield

Ascend nearly 300 feet to the peak of Pony Mountain where the trees give way to granite ledges offering dramatic views toward the Berkshire foothills. Get your heart pumping by hugging the trail to the right for the more vertical Climber’s Trail to the summit. If you have extra time after making your way back to the parking lot, cross Williamsburg Road to the Two Bridges Trail (blue) for three waterfalls often roaring with spring runoff.

Peaked Mountain in Monson

Hike the two-mile Summit Loop (red) trail to the top of Peaked (pronounced “pea-kid”) Mountain, gaining over 467 feet in elevation along the way. The ascent can be a workout, with strenuous stretches of steep and rocky terrain that easily quicken your pulse. The view from the top is well worth the effort, with sweeping vistas in every direction of rolling New England countryside, undisturbed forested landscape, and distant mountains.

Royalston Falls in Royalston

Wind your way through dense forest and ferns to scale a deep granite gorge carved over millennia by Falls Brook. The 2.5 mile out-and-back trail gains 534 feet in elevation and can be slippery as it descends into the ravine. The reward for your careful trek is a dramatic 45-foot waterfall that plunges into a dark pool veiled in mist. Those who are looking for a longer adventure can continue south along the Tully Trail—in total a 22-mile loop—to Jacobs Hill and Doane’s Falls.

Weir Hill in North Andover

Climb steep hillsides through rare barrens habitat to summit the 308-foot Weir (pronounced “wire”) Hill overlooking Lake Cochichewick. The Weir Hill Trail (blue) or Scrub Oak Trail (red) provide an excellent cardio exercise for those looking for a rigorous hiking experience on the North Shore. The hilltop rewards you with scenic views of the Merrimack Valley, including Mount Wachusett and Mount Monadnock to the west.

Carefully review all the information on each property’s webpage before heading out on your hike. This includes parking, regulations and advisories, and trail maps (which are available to download).