About
Goose Pond is a beautiful kettle pond that is a part of the Walden Pond State Reservation. The property around Goose Pond can be explored on a trail from the parking lot. Goose Pond is the subject of some of Thoreau’s writings and was a milestone for Thoreau when he traveled to Lincoln. Thoreau describes Goose Pond as very similar to Walden Pond. Goose Pond itself partially feeds Walden Pond contributing 6% of Walden Pond’s groundwater inflow.
History
Before Thoreau came to Walden Pond, Cato Ingraham (1751-1805), a former slave, lived in a house “directly at the opening of the path from the Walden road to the Goose Pond.” Thoreau writes about Ingraham in Walden, saying he grew walnut trees to help feed his family in the future. Cato’s family did not survive to eat the walnuts “but a younger and whiter speculator got them at last.”
Preservation
The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation maintains and preserves Goose Pond along with Walden Pond which is just a jaunt aways.
Recreation
Walking on the trails to Goose Pond is an enjoyable addition to a trip to Walden Pond or any of the other sites in Walden Woods.
Entrances/Parking Information
Goose Pond is accessible via the Pine Hill Trails from the Walden Pond State Reservation parking lot.
Seasonal information
The trails near Goose Pond may be impassible in the winter due to ice and snow. During spring, summer, and fall, poison ivy may be present on or near the trails. Check for ticks year round with extra consideration in the spring and fall when ticks are most prevalent.
Nearby sites
Walden Pond – Thoreau’s Cabin Site
Fees
There are no fees associated with accessing Goose Pond. A fee exists for parking in the Walden Pond State Reservation parking lot.
