Dog Walkers in Mattapan

Mattapan is a neighborhood located 40 minutes southwest of Boston’s central business district. The neighborhood has its own commercial district on Blue Hill Avenue at Mattapan Square, located at the intersection of Blue Hill Avenue, River Street, and the Cummins Highway.  

Residents of Mattapan can reach banks, offices, restaurants, shops, and other services in this area on foot. A library, schools, recreation grounds, and greenways are also distributed in the area and within reach for dog walkers and their intrepid canines. 

Boston weather is not always pleasant for walking with your pup. Winters are cold and snowy and you may need warm outerwear and good footwear on icy walkways. Spring, summer, and fall see plenty of rain in this coastal location and keeping rain gear handy means soggy weather won't prevent you and your dog from venturing out regularly. Summers can often be accompanied by thunder storms. These storms can create dangerous conditions for exposed pedestrians and pets, so exercise caution when they hit!

There are two large cemeteries on the northwest side of the community and the Neponset River Preserve runs along the south side, adding more natural green space along the south side. Many heavily wooded natural areas dot the landscape in Mattapan, making for shady, sheltered conditions and giving the neighborhood a park-like a feel. 

The terrain is hilly, although most slopes are not steep and pedestrians and pets can get around without too much difficulty. Train tracks transect the region and are situated below street level. Although they impede foot traffic in some locations, they are easily crossed by elevated thoroughfares with pedestrian sidewalks that take foot traffic safely over the rail lines.

Many natural wooded areas are located in Mattapan, mostly near the borders of the community. Heavily treed areas include Matthunt Woods, Currier Woods, Kennebeck-Alabama Colorado Marsh, Pendergast Preventorium, and Gladeside. The Neponset River Reservation is located on the south side of Mattapan and the greenway extends for eight miles with trails connecting in various locations.  

Adjacent to Mattapan is the Lower Neponset River Tail which is a 2.4-mile paved path, popular with cyclists, joggers, and dog walkers. This trail and connecting greenways will take you to many parks in the area. Harambee Park is a recreational park located on the north side of Mattapan and features sports fields and facilities with some paved walking paths.

The Boston Nature Center and Wildlife Sanctuary is nearby, however, dogs are not allowed in this park or the Franklin Park Zoo to the north. Dogs are allowed in other sections of Franklin Park to the northwest which provides an excellent greenway and trails for a stroll with your furry friend!