DCR Blue Hills Reservation & South Coast
Hikes & Happenings - Winter 2019

Tuesday, January 1     11:00am-3:00pm
28th Annual Blue Hills First Day Hikes
Activities at noon. Three Hikes at 1 pm.

Meet Blue Hills Wildlife from Trailside Museum from noon to 1pm
Hot cocoa and food for sale, and a warming fire
Three DCR Ranger-led Hikes of 1-4 miles begin at 1pm

Meet at the Houghton's Pond main parking lot at 840 Hillside Street in Milton. This event is very popular and parking is limited. Arrive early.
Join the tradition and celebrate New Year’s Day in the Blue Hills. From noon to 1 pm, visit with local wildlife from Trailside Museum, purchase a cup of hot cocoa or a snack, share some holiday cheer by the warming fire, and then stretch your legs on one of three easy to challenging guided hikes which all depart at 1 pm.
For more info and weather updates, call 617-727-4573,ext. 4.

 

Saturday, January 26     11am–2pm     [Severe weather date: February 2]
Winter Wildlife Cruise
Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park

Grab your camera and join park rangers and local naturalists to observe animals who make their wintertime home in Boston Harbor and around the outer Harbor Islands. Guest naturalist include representatives from the National Park Service, New England Aquarium and Mass Audubon. Boarding begins at 10:30am at Long Wharf North, Boston.
A fee is charged: Adults $30     Seniors $25     Children $15     Under age 3 are free
Reserve your seat: http://www.bostonharborislands.org

Saturday, February 2     1-2pm
Blue Hills Groundhog Day Wildlife Safari

Meet at Brookwood Farm at 11 Blue Hill River Road in Canton.
Put on your detective hat as we search for clues of animal activity. Where do animals go in winter? Unlock the mysteries of wildlife in winter on this seasonal safari. For ages 8 and up. 1 hour.

Thursday, February 14     10-11am
Blue Hills Valentine’s Day Canines & Coffee

Meet at Brookwood Farm parking lot at 11 Blue Hill River Road in Canton.
Share your love of the great outdoors with your favorite pooch by your side. We’ll stretch our legs on a scenic stroll and end the walk with a hot beverage at the conference center. Dogs must be on a leash not to exceed 10 feet. 1 hour.

Saturday, February 16     11am-12:30pm
Blue Hills Cabin Fever Family Fun Hike

Meet at Houghton’s Pond parking lot at 840 Hillside Street in Milton.
Are you tired of sitting on the couch? Grab the kids and get out! Join a DCR Park interpreter for some fun under the winter sun. We’ll take a 1.5 mile trek and play some winter games along the way. Dress in warm layers and boots. Don’t forget hats and mittens too. For ages 8 and up. 1.5 hours.

Tuesday, February 19     7–9pm
Winter Full Moon Hike at Borderland State Park

Meet at Borderland State Park at 259 Massapoag Ave. in North Easton.
Join us for a 3 mile walk under the beautiful winter moon. After the hike, enjoy some free hot chocolate by the warm fire inside the visitor center. Hikers must remain with the group and the park is open for this event only. Inclement weather or icy trails will cancel. Call Borderland for weather updates at 508-238-6566.

Saturday, February 23     11:30am–3pm     [Severe weather date: March 2]
Winter Wander Cruise to Peddock’s Island
Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park

Experience an unforgettable winter day as you wander the trails in search of winter tracks and traces. Look, listen and learn as you discover hidden treasures of the island. Play in the snow (if the weather cooperates), join us for cocoa and gorp in our "winter lodge" or by the fire for s'mores on the beach. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own snowshoes, lunches, binoculars and cameras to enhance their day. Boarding begins at 11:00 am at Long Wharf North, Boston.
A fee is charged: Adults $30     Seniors $25     Children $15     Under age 3 are free
Reserve your seat: http://www.bostonharborislands.org

For more DCR February school vacation programs, visit www.mass.gov/dcr.

Things to know before you go

All programs are FREE! (unless otherwise listed)

Blue Hills Reservation     695 Hillside St., Milton, MA 02186     (617) 727-4573    www.mass.gov/dcr