I have a list of local sites that are recommended to visit in the Needham area. I decided I would visit Echo Bridge today, but in looking at its location and reading some online information, I learned that it was connected to another site on my list — Hemlock Gorge. I didn’t realize I’d get falls too, so even better.
Echo Bridge was the bridge painted by a local artist that I had posted in my blog about the Wellesley Library.
Echo Bridge (per Wikipedia) is a historic masonry bridge spanning the Charles River (what else in these parts?) between Needham and Newton Upper Falls. At the time of its construction in 1876-77, it was the second longest masonry bridge in the country. The bridge was named for how your voice echoes when you talk underneath the bridge. It is 500’ long and consists of a series of 7 arches. At its highest point, it is 70’ above the river.
Hemlock Gorge is a 23 acre natural area along the banks of the Charles River. It is filled with Hemlock trees.
The upper trail leads to the bridge.
and looking towards Newton Upper Falls.
on the Newton Upper Falls side
Once I crossed the bridge back to the Needham side, I decided to follow the Upper Falls Trail loop.
Peckish Travels 