REMINDER: Houghton’s Pond Service Returns Saturday May 23 on the MBTA Route 716

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) today reminds riders that seasonal weekend service to Houghton's Pond will return on route 716 beginning Saturday, May 23, 2026, and it will run through Indigenous Peoples' Day. On Saturdays and Sundays, Route 716 runs every 45 min from 8 AM to 8 PM.

"Access to nature and outdoor recreation should be available to everyone. Expanding seasonal MBTA service to Houghton's Pond will make it easier for more children and families - especially those who may not otherwise have easy access to outdoor swimming and green space - to reach the beach, cool off during the summer, and experience the Blue Hills," said DCR Commissioner Nicole LaChapelle. "Public transportation plays an important role in connecting people to the health and community benefits of our state parks, and this partnership with the MBTA and our partners helps expand equitable access to welcoming outdoor spaces."

Houghton's Pond Recreation Area features a 24-acre pond and accessible beach for swimming, fishing, and relaxing as well as hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails. Area facilities also include ball fields, a concession stand, a playground, picnic areas, restrooms, a visitors' center, and more. Houghton's Pond Recreation Area is part of the Blue Hills Reservation, one of DCR's largest urban parks, stretching over 7,000 acres from Quincy to Dedham and Milton to Randolph. With its scenic views, varied terrain, accessible beach, and 125 miles of trails, the Blue Hills Reservation is a recreation destination for the region.