For admirers of Henry David Thoreau or just anyone who enjoys the outdoors, Walden Pond remains a pristine wilderness sanctuary that beckons visitors to its beautiful shores.
Thoreau moved to Walden Pond in July 1845 and lived there for two years in a cabin he built himself, on land owned by Ralph Waldo Emerson, a fellow trancendentalist. His book about the experiences, “Walden:, Or, Life in the Woods” is viewed by many as a major inspiration of the conservation movement.
Thoreau used his time at Walden to contemplate the world and its culture and learn simplicity and self-reliance. His book is a collection of the thoughts about society that he developed during his time of isolation from it, and continues to have relevance to people seeking a great connection to the natural world. A visit to pond that inspired this great thinker can be a very moving experience for people who feel a connection to Thoreau and his works.
Visiting Walden Pond
The 102-foot deep pond is in Concord, Mass., less than an hour from Boston. It is now a National Historic Landmark and part of the Walden Pond State Reservation, 462 acres of protected space. Surrounding the reservation is Walden Woods, a mostly undeveloped 2580 acre forest.
The reservation includes several hiking trails, and swimming is allowed in the pond. Fishing is also permitted, with a proper Massachusetts state fishing license. Boating is allowed but gasoline engines are forbidden. Visitors should be aware that admission to the park is limited to 1,000 people at a time. The park will close admissions for a few hours if that number is reached to keep the habitat from becoming over-stressed, so park-goers should plan to come early if it’s a warm summer weekend or call ahead. There is no admission fee but there is a $5 charge for parking.
Visitors can buy their own copy of Walden or Thoreau’s other works at the gift shop, sponsored by the Thoreau Society, or take a walk to the site of his original cabin. A reproduction cabin and a statue of the man are situated closer to the entrance.
Famous Benefactors
The area continues to inspire people of all ages and backgrounds. Don Henley, best known for his work with the Eagles, founded the Walden Woods Project in 1990 as part of an effort to keep as much of the forest as possible undeveloped. Since it’s founding, the organization has protected nearly 150 acres in and around Walden Woods.
Thoreau Institute
In 1998, the group created the Thoreau Institute at Walden Woods, a research and education center focused on Henry David Thoreau and his influence. The Institute hosts scholars interested in Thoreau and provides educational programming for high school teachers and students. Visitors to Walden Pond can join hikes and tours sponsored by the Institute or attend evening lectures and panel discussions.
“What a history this Concord wilderness which I affect so much may have had! how many old deeds describe it.” -- Henry David Thoreau
