September-October 2012 AMC Boston Chapter Local Walks/Hikes
updated Wednesday, October 17, 2012 10:50 AM

For further information, send e-mail to Robert Winters at Robert@rwinters.com.

Already scheduled with July-August listings:

Sat, Sept 1, 2012. Parks & Greenways, Cambridge to Malden. (Hiking, walks) - approved May 14
Outdoors version: Mostly wooded, somewhat hilly 9-mi. hike w/8 ponds and incl. Middlesex Fells & ending at Oak Grove T sta., 9:30am-2:30pm. Bring lunch & water. Meet on W side of Alewife T sta. at passenger drop-off. L Mike Stadelmaier ((617) 282-3182 to 10pm, hikeinfo@yahoo.com).
Web version: Mostly wooded, somewhat hilly 9-mi. hike w/8 ponds and incl. Middlesex Fells & ending at Oak Grove T sta., 9:30am-2:30pm. Bring lunch & water. Meet on W side of Alewife T sta. at passenger drop-off. No dogs. Non-AMC members, $1. L Mike Stadelmaier ((617) 282-3182 to 10pm).

Sun, Sept 2, 2012. Mt. Misery, Farrar Pond, and Adjacent Conservation Areas, Lincoln, MA. (Hiking, walks) - approved May 13
Outdoors version: 8-9 mi. (70+ temp. may shorten hike). Meet 9:30am in Lincoln RR commuter pkg. lot. From Rte.95/128 take exit28 in Waltham, follow Trapelo Road W 2.5mi., L on Lincoln Rd 1.4mi., R just before tracks into RR sta. lot. L Jim Loughlin (617-923-8039 6-9pm).
Web version: 8-9 mi. (70+ temp. may shorten hike). Meet at 9:30am in Lincoln RR commuter pkg. lot. From Rte 95/128 take exit 28 in Waltham, follow Trapelo Road W 2.5 mi., L on Lincoln Rd 1.4 mi., R just before tracks into RR sta. lot. No dogs. Non-AMC members, $1. L Jim Loughlin (617-923-8039 6-9pm).

Mon, Sept 3, 2012. World's End Reservation, Hingham, MA. (hiking, walks) - approved May 13
Outdoors version: 5-mi. walk, 8:30am-11:30am. Bring snack/water. From Rte.3 exit 14, take Rte.228N 6.5mi., L on Rte.3A 1.0mi. to rotary, R on Summer St. 0.5mi. to light, L on Martin's Lane to entr. Pkg. fee. Storm cancels. No e-mail after 8/31. [Mike Tuohey will substitute for Beth Mosias.] L Mike Tuohey (breadcrumbs60@gmail.com).
Web version: 5 mile walk, 8:30am-11:30am. Bring snack/water. From Rte. 3 exit 14, take Rte. 228N 6.5 mi., L on Rte. 3A 1.0mi. to rotary, R on Summer St. 0.5 mi. to light, L on Martin's Lane to entr. Parking. fee. Storm cancels. No dogs. Non-AMC members, $1. [Mike Tuohey will substitute for Beth Mosias.] L Mike Tuohey (breadcrumbs60@gmail.com).

Mon, Sept 3, 2012. Arnold Arboretum, Jamaica Plain. (hiking, walks) - approved May 13
Outdoors version: 4-mi. walk among 5000 kinds of trees & shrubs, 12:30-2:45pm. Bring snack & water. Meet at Admin. Bldg., Arborway. Take T to Forest Hills sta., walk 0.6 mi. L Mike Stadelmaier ((617) 282-3182 to 10pm, hikeinfo@yahoo.com).
Web version: 4-mi. walk among 5000 kinds of trees & shrubs, 12:30-2:45pm. Bring snack & water. Meet at Admin. Bldg., Arborway. Take T to Forest Hills sta., walk 0.6 mi. No dogs. Non-AMC members, $1. L Mike Stadelmaier ((617) 282-3182 to 10pm).

New listings for July/August 2012:

Sat, Sept 8, 2012. Middlesex Fells, Medford. (Hiking, walks) - approved July 12
Outdoors version: 6 mi. hike, rocky terrain. 9:30am. Bring lunch/water/boots. Meet DCR Flynn Rink, Woodland Rd. From Rte.93, Exit 33 (Medford), take Fellsway West (Rte. 28) N 0.5mi. R on Elm St. 0.5mi., L at rotary; rink on L. Heavy rain cancels. L Nick Palky ((781) 933-8783; NickPalky@hotmail.com).
Web version: 6 mi. hike, rocky terrain. 9:30am. Bring lunch/water/boots. Meet DCR Flynn Rink, Woodland Rd. From Rte. 93, Exit 33 (Medford), take Fellsway West (Rte. 28) N 0.5 mi. R on Elm St. 0.5mi., L at rotary; rink on L. Heavy rain cancels. No dogs; non-AMC members $1. L Nick Palky ((781) 933-8783; NickPalky@hotmail.com).

Sun, Sept 9, 2012. Groton Town Forest, Groton. (hiking, walks) - approved July 15
Outdoors version: Explore the varied topography and habitats of this scenic woodland, including eskers, kettle holes, dry upland, marsh, the Dead River, and more. ~2-3 easy miles. Meet 10:00am at end of Town Forest Road off MA225 in W Groton, 42.5973N 71.6052W. L Olin Lathrop ((978) 742-9014; olin@embedinc.com).
Web version: Explore the varied topography and habitats of this scenic woodland, including eskers, kettle holes, dry upland, marsh, the Dead River, and more. ~2-3 easy miles. Meet 10:00am at end of Town Forest Road off MA225 in W Groton, 42.5973N 71.6052W. L Olin Lathrop (olin@embedinc.com).

Sun, Sept 9, 2012. Battle Road, Lexington and Concord (hiking, walks) - approved July 15
Outdoors version: 7mi. walk. Meet 9.30am. Follow 2A to Center of Concord. Follow signs to Old Manse and Bridge. Park in lot on Monument St. Leave most cars, drive together to Visitor's Center. Bring water/snacks/money for ice cream. L Eveline Weyl ((617) 735-9395; eweyl@comcast.net).
Web version: Admire early foliage and share some revolutionary tales along the Battle Road Trail in the Minutemen National Park. Walk 7 miles at a moderate pace from the Minutemen Visitor's Center to the North Bridge, with better footwear than the Redcoats in 1775. Meet at 9.30 am in Concord at the Old Manse parking lot on Monument Street. Leave most cars there and drive together to the Visitor's Center. Walk along the Battle Road with stops and a break at Meriam Corner. Continue on paved roads to the center of Concord and on to the North Bridge and the parking lot. Directions to meeting place: Follow 2A to the Center of Concord. Follow signs to Old Manse and Bridge. Bring water, snacks and money for ice cream in Concord Center. No dogs; non-AMC members $1. L Eveline Weyl (eweyl@comcast.net).

Tues, Sept 11, 2012. Great Streets of Cambridge. (walks) - approved July 15
Outdoors version: Leisurely 4-mi. walk. Historic Harvard, Porter Sq, Huron Village , 6:45-8:45 p.m. Bring snack. Meet outside Brattle Theatre. From Harvard Sq T Stop, 1 block W on Eliot Street ; R on Brattle Street (theatre on left). Storm cancels. L Marc Hurwitz ((781) 864-1732; info@hiddenboston.com).
Web version: Leisurely 4-mi. walk along historic streets around Harvard and Porter Squares and Huron Village , 6:45-8:45 p.m. Bring snack. Meet outside of Brattle Theatre (lower level). From Harvard Square T Stop, go 1 block west on Eliot Street ; take right on Brattle Street (theatre is on the left). Storm cancels. No dogs; non-AMC members $1. Wear appropriate footwear for conditions. L Marc Hurwitz.

Sat, Sept 15, 2012. Acton Arboretum. (walks, Instruction) - approved July 12
Outdoors version: Slow paced nature walk through woods, fields and over bog boardwalk focusing on plant ID and fun natural history. 9:30am - 12:30pm. From Concord rotary, take Rte 2 West 2.2 miles, right on Taylor Road, 0.7 miles to Arboretum parking lot on right. Parking limited, arrive early. Steady rain cancels. L Boot Boutwell ((781) 729-4712).
Web version: Slow paced nature walk through woods, fields and over bog boardwalk focusing on plant ID and fun natural history. 9:30am - 12:30pm. From Concord rotary, take Rte 2 West 2.2 miles, right on Taylor Road, 0.7 miles to Arboretum parking lot on right. Parking limited, arrive early. Steady rain cancels. No dogs; non-AMC members $1. L Boot Boutwell ((781) 729-4712).

Sun, Sept 16, 2012. Blue Hills, Milton. (Hiking, walks) - approved July 12, location changed July 15
Outdoors version: Moderate-to-strenuous hike including Skyline Trail, 9:30am-2:30pm. Bring lunch/water/sturdy footwear. From I-93/Route 128 Exit 3, travel north for 0.5mi. to stop sign, turn right on Hillside St. Go 0.2mi. to Houghton's Pond lot on right. Heavy rain cancels. L Henry Gardner ((781) 894-4383; henryghikes@gis.net).
Web version: Moderate-to-strenuous hike including Skyline Trail, 9:30am-2:30pm. Bring lunch/water/sturdy footwear. From I-93/Route 128 Exit 3, travel north for 0.5mi. to the stop sign, turn right on Hillside St. Go 0.2mi. to Houghton's Pond lot on right. Heavy rain cancels. No dogs; non-AMC members $1. L Henry Gardner (henryghikes@gis.net).

Sun, Sept 16, 2012. Beacon Hill in Late Summer/Early Autumn, Boston. (walks) - approved July 12
Outdoors version: 1:00pm-3:00pm. Admire seasonal plantings; several hilly streets. Meet at Park Street Station (Green Line T) at fountain outside main exit. Bring snacks, water. Storm cancels. L Sharon Marshall ((617) 542-4551, 7-9pm; smarshallmd@juno.com).
Web version: 1:00pm-3:00pm. Admire seasonal plantings; several hilly streets. Meet at Park Street Station (Green Line T) at fountain outside main exit. Bring snacks, water. Storm cancels. No dogs; non-AMC members $1. L Sharon Marshall ((617) 542-4551, 7-9pm; smarshallmd@juno.com).

Sat, Sept 22, 2012. Breakheart Reservation, Saugus. (Hiking, walks) - approved July 12
Outdoors version: Mod. 5 mi. hike. 9:30am. Bring snacks, water & boots. From Rte. 1 in Saugus, take Lynn Fells Pkwy. W 0.3 mi., R onto Forest St., park at Res. HQ. Heavy rain cancels. L Nick Palky ((781) 933-8783; NickPalky@hotmail.com).
Web version: Mod. 5 mi. hike. 9:30am. Bring snacks, water & boots. From Rte. 1 in Saugus, take Lynn Fells Pkwy. W 0.3 mi., R onto Forest St., park at Res. HQ. Heavy rain cancels. No dogs; non-AMC members $1. L Nick Palky ((781) 933-8783; NickPalky@hotmail.com).

Sat, Sept 22, 2012. Middlesex Fells, Winchester. (Hiking, walks) - approved July 12
Outdoors version: 5.2-mile hike along Reservoir Trail (Orange Blazes, Clockwise Loop), 10:30am. Bring lunch, water, and sturdy boots. I-93 Exit 33. Rotary to South Border Road toward Winchester. 2 miles to Long Pond parking lot on the right. Rain cancels. L Dan Pratt ((781) 933-7833; danpratt41@comcast.net).
Web version: 5.2-mile hike along Reservoir Trail (Orange Blazes, Clockwise Loop), 10:30am. Bring lunch, water, and sturdy boots. I-93 Exit 33. Rotary to South Border Road toward Winchester. 2 miles to Long Pond parking lot on the right. Rain cancels. No dogs; non-AMC member $1. L Dan Pratt.

Sat, Sept 22, 2012. Chestnut Hill: Equinox hike in Hammond Woods. (hiking, walks) - late, web-only listing approved Sept 14
Outdoors version: 10am-1/2 pm. START: Hammond Pond trailhead, Hammond Pond Parkway @ Rt. 9, Newton. Relaxed 3-4 mile walk/hike in a geographically varied area, surprisingly close to downtown.
Web version: 10am-1/2 pm. Relaxed 3-4 mile walk/hike in a geographically varied area, surprisingly close to downtown. http://tinyurl.com/6oj9nsv Features include: a vernal pond, "caves", glacial erratics, a limestone cliff, lush mossy woods, and a former formal garden. There are several large rock formations, and much of these consist of Roxbury puddingstone, which is the official rock of Massachusetts – not Plymouth Rock, as you may have thought ;-) Our route covers both DCR and Newton Conservation land, broken into four quadrants by Hammond Pond Parkway and the MBTA Riverside line. There is an optional mid-walk visit to the McMullen Museum http://tinyurl.com/awk877 on the Boston College campus, TBD by group vote; the variances in duration and distance are directly related to this. START: Hammond Pond trailhead, Hammond Pond Parkway @ Rt. 9, Newton. Parking area in the rear, at the western end of the Chestnut Hill Shopping Center on the west/out bound side of Route 9 – not to be confused with The Mall at Chestnut Hill, which is across Hammond Pond Parkway from where we'll be. The trailhead is where the parking area meets the woods, on the edge of Hammond Pond. There is construction nearby, but it doesn't impact us. Bring water and whatever provisions you may need. If coming from the west, exit Rt. 9 for Hammond Pond Parkway, make an immediate U-turn, cross under Rt. 9 and turn right into the parking area. If taking H.P.P. from Newton Center or the Boston College (Cleveland Circle) areas, cross under Rt. 9, make an immediate U-turn, cross under Rt. 9 again and turn right into the parking area. By T, take the Green D (Riverside) line to Hammond St., walk towards Rt. 9 and then behind the shopping area to the start. Heavy rain cancels. Non-AMC members $1. L Charles Hansen (velotrain@yahoo.com).

Sun, Sept 23, 2012. Andres Institute of Art, Brookline, NH. (walks) - approved July 12
Outdoors version: Explore 140-acre sculpture garden. 9:30am - 2pm. Take Rte.2 W 20 mi. past Concord, MA rotary. R on Rte.13N 15 mi., L Andres driveway (2.5 mi. N MA/NH state line). 100 yds to pkg lot on R. L Mark Levine ((781) 275-2143; trailmark@verizon.net).
Web version: Explore trails through 140-acre hilltop international sculpture garden-largest in NE, w/views, constantly changing exhibits and interesting finds. 9:30am - 2 pm. Directions: Take Rte. 2 W 20 mi. past Concord, MA rotary. R on Rte. 13 N 15 mi, L Andres driveway (2.5 mi. N MA/NH state line). Parking lot 100 yds in on R. off driveway. Contact L if severe weather. Andres info, trail map and directions go to www.andresinstitute.org. No dogs; non-AMC members $1. L Mark Levine (trailmark@verizon.net).

Sun, Sept 23, 2012. Caryl Park, Dover. (Hiking, walks) - approved July 12
Outdoors version: Fast-paced hike, 10am, 5mi. Rte.95/128 exit 19, Highland Ave. 1.8mi. to Needham Ctr., R onto Rte.135 1 block, L onto Chestnut St. S 1.5mi., bear R at fork onto Dedham St. 1.5mi. Pkg.lot on L (tennis courts) past Mill Farm. L Joyce Beatty ((781) 444-5618; GeoJoy62@verizon.net).
Web version: Fast-paced hike, 10am, 5 mi. Rte. 95/128 exit 19, Highland Ave. 1.8 mi. to Needham Ctr., R onto Rte. 135 1 block, L onto Chestnut St. S 1.5 mi., bear R at fork onto Dedham St. 1.5mi. Pkg. lot on L (tennis courts) past Mill Farm. No dogs; non-AMC members $1. L Joyce Beatty.

Sat, Sept 29, 2012. West Quincy Quarries & Granite Railway, Quincy. (hiking, walks) - web-only, approved July 19
Outdoors version: 5.5-mi.walk, 10:30am-2:30pm. Bring lunch/water/sturdy shoes. Meet-Shea Ice Rink, Willard St.,Quincy. From SE Expressway Exit8-Quincy, go south 0.6miles on Willard St. From I-93/Rte.128 Exit6 in Braintree, go north 0.7miles. Or Bus 238 from Quincy Center T station. Heavy rain cancels. L Mike Tuohey (breadcrumbs60@gmail.com).
Web version: 5.5-mi.walk to Granite Railway & quarries, some rock scrambling and steep sections, 10:30am-2:30pm. Bring lunch, water & sturdy shoes. Meet at Shea Ice Rink, Willard St., Quincy. From SE Expressway Exit 8 in Quincy, go south 0.6 miles on Willard St. Or from I-93/Route 128 Exit 6 in Braintree, go north 0.7 miles. Or for public transit take Bus 238 from Quincy Center T station. Heavy rain cancels. No dogs; non-AMC members $1. L Mike Tuohey (breadcrumbs60@gmail.com).

Sun, Sept 30, 2012. Fort Washington, Cambridge. (walks) - approved July 12
Outdoors version: 6-mi. historic walk, noon-4:00pm, From Boston, go over BU Bridge, across rotary to Brookline St., R on Waverly St. to large flag-95 Waverly, or Red Line to Central Sq., take Brookline St. to Erie St. On-street pkg. Sundays. L Brian Campbell ((978) 256-2470; briancam_2000@yahoo.com).
Web version: 6-mi. historic walk, noon-4:00pm, from still-existing 236 year old Revolutionary War fort to Harvard Sq., Washington Elm, Longfellow House & return along Charles River to BU Bridge. From Boston, go over BU Bridge, across rotary to Brookline St., R on Waverly St. to large flag at 95 Waverly, or take Red Line to Central Sq., walk down Brookline St. to Erie St. On street parking on Sundays. No dogs; non-AMC members $1. L Brian Campbell ((978) 256-2470; briancam_2000@yahoo.com).

Sun, Sept 30, 2012. Charlestown, Boston & Cambridge. (Hiking, walks) - approved July 12
Outdoors version: 12mi. city walk. 9:00am. Meet Kendall Sq. T Cambridge (front of Marriott Hotel). Tour Bunker Hill Monument, USS Constitution, Beacon Hill, Boston Common, Public Gardens, South End, return along Charles River. Lunch stop enroute. Shorter options avail. Rain cancels. L Shelly Elzweig ((978) 387-6364 until 9pm; Redsox234@comcast.net).
Web version: 12 mi. city walk. 9:00am. Meet at Kendall Sq. T in Cambridge (front of Marriott Hotel). Tour Bunker Hill Monument, USS Constitution, Beacon Hill, Boston Common, the Public Gardens, South End, return along Charles River. Lunch stop en route. Shorter options avail. Rain cancels. No dogs; non-AMC members $1. L Shelly Elzweig ((978) 387-6364 until 9pm; Redsox234@comcast.net).

Sun, Sept 30, 2012. Hale Reservation/Powisett Farm, Westwood. (Hiking, walks) - approved July 12
Outdoors version: Easy walk, mostly woods, across a dam & thru a meadow, 1-3pm. From Rte. 95/128 exit 16B, take Rte. 109 W 1.2mi., R on Dover Rd. 0.3mi., R on Carby St. 0.6 mi. to Cat Rock pkg. lot. Rain cancels. L Jean Veigas ((781) 449-4324; jveigas@whitneyveigas.com).
Web version: Easy walk, mostly woods, across a dam & thru a meadow, 1-3pm. From Rte. 95/128 exit 16B, take Rte. 109 W 1.2 mi., R on Dover Rd. 0.3 mi., R on Carby St. 0.6 mi. to Cat Rock pkg. lot. Rain cancels. Wear traction device on boots if conditions warrant. No dogs, non-AMC members $1. L Jean Veigas ((781) 449-4324; jveigas@whitneyveigas.com).

Sat, Oct 6, 2012. Middlesex Fells, Winchester. (walks) - approved July 12
Outdoors version: 10am-2:30pm. Moderate walk. Bring water/lunch. Meet Wedgmere Station, Winchester. From Rte. 93 exit 33 (Medford), take S. Border Rd. W 2.2mi. to Mystic Valley Pkwy., 0.9mi. to Bacon St., R under tracks. Lot on L. Storm cancels. L Betsy Goeke ((781) 729-8484 until 10pm; betsyg@space.mit.edu).
Web version: 10am-2:30pm. Moderate walk. Bring water/lunch. Meet Wedgmere Station, Winchester. From Rte. 93 exit 33 (Medford), take S. Border Rd. W 2.2mi. to Mystic Valley Pkwy., 0.9mi. to Bacon St., R under tracks. Lot on L. Storm cancels. No dogs; non-AMC members $1. L Betsy Goeke ((781) 729-8484 until 10pm; betsyg@space.mit.edu).

Sun, Oct 7, 2012. Battle Road, Lexington and Concord. (Hiking, walks) - approved July 12 [Leader changed Sept 15]
Outdoors version: 7mi. walk. Meet 9.30am. Follow 2A to Center of Concord. Follow signs to Old Manse and Bridge. Park in lot on Monument St. Leave most cars, drive together to Visitor's Center. Bring water/snacks/money for ice cream. L Gail Zwink ((508) 460-5038, ggzwink@gmail.com).
Web version: Admire early foliage and share some revolutionary tales along the Battle Road Trail in the Minute Man National Park. Walk 7 miles at a moderate pace from the Minute Man Visitor's Center to the North Bridge, with better footwear than the Redcoats in 1775. Meet at 9.30am in Concord at the Old Manse parking lot on Monument Street. Leave most cars there and drive together to the Visitor's Center. Walk along the Battle Road with stops and a break at Meriam Corner. Continue on paved roads to the center of Concord and on to the North Bridge and the parking lot. Directions to meeting place: Follow 2A to the Center of Concord. Follow signs to Old Manse and Bridge. Bring water, snacks and money for ice cream in Concord Center. No dogs; non-AMC members $1. L Gail Zwink ((508) 460-5038).

Sun, Oct 7, 2012. Lincoln – DeCordova Art-walk. (walks, hikes) - web-only, approved Sept 21
Web version: 10am-1pm. Walk 4 miles around Flint's Pond (nee Sandy Pond) and DeCordova Sculpture Park. Start: Brooks School parking lot – use 6 Ballfield Road, Lincoln for GPS. Heavy rain cancels. Well-behaved dogs OK; non-AMC members $1. L Charles Hansen (velotrain@yahoo.com).

Sat, Oct 13, 2012. Bellevue Pond, Middlesex Fells, Medford. (Instruction, walks) - approved July 12
Outdoors version: Slow paced nature walk around pond through forest to meadow focusing on plant ID and fun natural history. 9:00am - 12:00noon. Rte 93 to exit 33. At rotary, go right onto South Border Rd/Winchester a few hundred yards to Bellevue Pond Parking Lot on right. Parking limited, arrive early. Steady rain cancels. L Boot Boutwell ((781) 729-4712).
Web version: Slow paced nature walk around pond through forest to meadow focusing on plant ID and fun natural history. 9:00 am - 12:00 noon. Rte 93 to exit 33. At rotary, go right onto South Border Rd/Winchester a few hundred yards to Bellevue Pond Parking Lot on right. Parking limited, arrive early. Steady rain cancels. No dogs; non-AMC members $1. L Boot Boutwell ((781) 729-4712).

Sat, Oct 13, 2012. Blue Hills, Milton. (Hiking, walks) - approved July 12
Outdoors version: Mod. 7-8mi. hike using lesser known trails with some steep hills. Bring lunch/water/sturdy footgear. Meet 9:30am at Houghton's Pond pkg. lot. I-93/Rte.128 Exit3 (Houghton's/Ponkapoag). N 0.5mi. to stop sign. Proceed 0.2mi. to Hillside St., pkg. lot on R. L Corinne Waite ((781) 331-8472 eves 7-9 only).
Web version: Mod. 7-8 mile hike using lesser known trails with some steep hills. Bring lunch, water, and sturdy footgear. Meet 9:30am at Houghton's Pond pkg. lot. I-93/Rte.128 Exit 3 (Houghton's/Ponkapoag). N 0.5 mi. to stop sign. Proceed 0.2 mi to Hillside St., pkg. lot on R. No dogs. Non-AMC members, $1. L Corinne Waite ((781) 331-8472 eves 7-9 only).

Sun, Oct 14, 2012. Lincoln/Concord hike to Sudbury River, Adams and Fairhaven Woods, Walden Pond, Pine Hill. (Hiking, walks) - approved July 12
Outdoors version: 10mi. (less if >70deg) Meet at 10:00am in Lincoln RR commuter pkg.lot. From Rte.95/128 take exit 28 in Waltham, follow Trapelo W 2.5mi., L on Lincoln Rd 1.4mi., R just before tracks into RR station lot. L Jim Loughlin ((617) 923-8039).
Web version: 10 mi. (70+ temp. may lessen distance) Meet at 10:00am in Lincoln RR commuter pkg. lot. From Rte. 95/128 take exit 28 in Waltham, follow Trapelo W 2.5 mi., L on Lincoln Rd 1.4 mi., R just before tracks into RR station lot. No dogs; non-AMC members $1. L Jim Loughlin ((617) 923-8039).

Sun, Oct 14, 2012. Shepley Hills conservation area. (Hiking, walks) - approved July 15
Outdoors version: Great place to experience New England woods in fall splendor, featuring hardwood and pine forest, soapstone quarry, eskers, and pretty stream. ~1-2 miles with a couple mild hills. Meet 10:00am where Nod Road crosses rail trail in Groton, 42.6324N 71.5758W. L Olin Lathrop ((978) 742-9014; olin@embedinc.com).
Web version: This conservation area is a great place to experience New England woods in fall splendor, featuring hardwood and pine forest, a soapstone quarry, eskers, and a pretty stream. About 1-2 miles with a couple mild hills. Meet 10:00am where Nod Road crosses the rail trail in Groton, 42.6324N 71.5758W. L Olin Lathrop (olin@embedinc.com).

Sat, Oct 20, 2012. Middlesex Fells, Stoneham. (Hiking, walks) - approved July 12
Outdoors version: Hilly 6.5mi. hike at Wright's Pond, 10:30am. Bring lunch/water/sturdy footgear. From Rte.93N exit34, R onto South St. to Stone Zoo pkg.lot. From Rte.93S, exit35, go under highway, turn R. Go across Rte28 to pkg. lot on R. Storm cancels. L Dan Pratt ((781) 933-7833; danpratt41@comcast.net).
Web version: Hilly 6.5 mi. hike at Wright's Pond, 10:30am. Bring lunch/water/sturdy footgear. From Rte. 93N exit 34, R onto South St. to Stone Zoo pkg. lot. From Rte. 93S take exit 35, go under highway, turn R. Go across Rte. 28 to pkg. lot on R. Storm cancels. No dogs; non-AMC members $1. L Dan Pratt.

Sat, Oct 20, 2012. Neponset River Greenway/Milton Hill, Dorchester. (walks, hikes) - web-only, approved July 19
Outdoors version: Five-mile walk along Neponset River to Hutchinson Field, 12:30pm-3:30pm. Bring snack/water. Meet at Hallet Street entrance to Pope John Paul II Park. From Route 93N, take exit 11 (11B from Route 93S) to Granite Avenue, north over Neponset River, immediate right on Hilltop Street, right on Hallet Street, under bridge into parking lot. Call if severe weather. No dogs. Non-AMC members $1. L Mike Tuohey (breadcrumbs60@gmail.com).
Web version: Five-mile walk along Neponset River to Hutchinson Field, 12:30pm-3:30pm. Bring snack/water. Meet at Hallet Street entrance to Pope John Paul II Park. From Route 93N, take exit 11 (11B from Route 93S) to Granite Avenue, north over Neponset River, immediate right on Hilltop Street, right on Hallet Street, under bridge into parking lot. Call if severe weather. No dogs. Non-AMC members $1. L Mike Tuohey (breadcrumbs60@gmail.com).

Sun, Oct 21, 2012. Emerald Necklace, Boston. (Hiking, walks) - approved July 12
Outdoors version: 6mi. mod. pace w/stops 9:30am-12:30pm. Meet at Arlington T stop, in front of Hermes (corner of Boylston/Arlington). End at Forest Hills T on Orange Line. We cross 2-3 roads but otherwise off road. L Eveline Weyl ((617) 735-9395; eweyl@comcast.net).
Web version: Enjoy our historical heritage, appreciate the wonder which is the Back Bay and learn more about Frederick Olmsted. We will walk about 6 miles at a moderate pace with stops to enjoy major sights but we should be done by 12:30pm. We will meet at the Arlington T stop, in front of Hermes at the corner of Boylston and Arlington at 9:30am. From the Commonwealth Mall to Park Drive to the Muddy River to Jamaica Pond and on to the Arboretum. Most of the Necklace will be covered. End at Forest Hills T on the Orange Line. We will cross 2 or 3 roads but otherwise be off the roads. No dogs; non-AMC members $1. L Eveline Weyl (eweyl@comcast.net).

Sun, Oct 21, 2012. Beaver Brook Assoc., Hollis, NH. (Hiking, walks) - approved July 12
Outdoors version: 8-9mi. over varied terrain. 9:30am-3:00pm. Bring lunch/boots. From Rte.3 exit 6 in Nashua, NH. Rte.130W 5.8mi. to light in Hollis Ctr., continue 1.8 mi. SW to dirt pkg. area on N side Rte. 130. Heavy rain cancels. L Mark Levine ((781) 275-2143 until 9pm; trailmark@verizon.net).
Web version: 8-9mi. over varied terrain w/pond & brook views, beaver lodges, waterfowl & "French meadow", 9:30am-3:00pm. Minor rock scramble & mystery cave home to a common animal. Bring lunch, boots. From Rte. 3 exit 6 in Nashua, take Rte. 130 W 5.8 mi. to light in Hollis Ctr., continue 1.8 mi. SW to dirt pkg. area on N side of Rte. 130. Heavy rain cancels. No dogs; non-AMC members $1. L Mark Levine (trailmark@verizon.net).

Sun, Oct 21, 2012. Warner Trail, Cumberland, RI. (Hiking, walks) - approved July 12
Outdoors version: 10-mi. hike w/varied scenery. 9:30am-4:00pm. Bring lunch/water. Potluck after. Last Names T-Z(beverage), A-F(salad), G-M(entree), N-S(dessert). Take Rte.95S to Rte.295 S to exit11 in Cumberland, RI, then Rte.114 N 3.7mi. to Diamond Hill SP on R opp. Ice Cream Machine. L Jim Goyea ((508) 339-7671; jgoyea@hotmail.com).
Web version: 10-mi. hike w/varied scenery from Wampum Corner, Wrentham, S to Diamond Hill, RI, 9:30am-4:00pm. Bring lunch & water. FOWT Annual Mtg. & Potluck after in Sharon. Last Names T-Z bring beverage, A-F salad, G-M entree, N-S dessert. Take Rte. 95 S to Rte.295 S to exit 11 in Cumberland, RI, then Rte. 114 N 3.7 mi. to Diamond Hill SP on R opp. Ice Cream Machine. No dogs; non-AMC members $1. L Jim Goyea (jgoyea@hotmail.com).

Sun, Oct 21, 2012. Middlesex Canal, Billerica. (walks) - approved July 12
Outdoors version: Meet 1:30pm at Middlesex Canal Museum; http://middlesexcanal.org for info., directions. 3-4mi. level walk, 2-3hrs. Route follows canal south of Concord River; includes lock, anchor stone, stretches of watered canal. Museum & bookstore open 12:00pm-4:00pm. L Robert Winters ((617) 661-9230; robert@middlesexcanal.org), CL Roger Hagopian ((781) 861-7868 to 10pm).
Web version: Joint with the Middlesex Canal Association. Meet at 1:30pm at the Middlesex Canal Museum and Visitor Center in the Faulkner Mill in North Billerica. The walk will be over 3-4 miles of generally level wooded terrain and streets, for 2-3 hours, rain or shine. The route follows the canal south of the Concord River. Sites to be visited include a guard lock, an anchor stone for the floating bridge which once carried the towpath across the river, and many stretches of canal, some still watered. The Museum, Visitor Center and bookstore will be open from 12:00pm-4:00pm. Directions by car: from Route 128/95, take Route 3 toward Nashua to exit 28 (Treble Cove Road, North Billerica, Carlisle). At end of ramp, turn left onto Treble Cove Road toward North Billerica. At about 0.75 miles, bear left at fork. After another 0.75 miles at traffic light, cross straight over Route 3A. Go about 0.25 miles to a three-way fork; take middle road (Talbot Street), which will put St. Andrew's Church on your left. Go about 0.25 miles and bear right onto Old Elm Street. Go about 0.25 miles to the falls where Old Elm becomes Faulkner Street; the Museum is on the left; you can park across the street on the right just beyond the falls. From I-495 take exit 37, N. Billerica, south to the road's end at a T-intersection; turn right then bear right at the Y; go 700' and turn left into parking lot. Museum is across the street. Directions by train: Lowell Commuter Line runs between Boston's North Station and Lowell's Gallagher Terminal. Get off at North Billerica station, one stop south of Lowell. From the station side of the tracks, the Museum is a three-minute walk down Station and Faulkner Streets on the right side. No dogs. Phone 1-978-670-2740. L Robert Winters ((617) 661-9230; robert@middlesexcanal.org), CL Roger Hagopian ((781) 861-7868 to 10pm).

Sun, Oct 21, 2012. Waltham Rose Art-walk. (walks) - web-only listing approved Sept 20
Web version: 2pm-6pm. 6 mile (incl. return) moderate-paced walk downtown Waltham to Rose Art Museum (free), on the Brandeis campus. http://www.brandeis.edu/rose/index.html. Using the Charles River Reservation Greenway and Mt. Feake Cemetery, we have many river views – and one Boston view from the "Castle". Meet by pedestrian bridge at Embassy Parking Lot off Pine St.; use 70 Cooper St. for GPS. If coming from Rte. 95/128, take US Rte. 20E (exit 26), R Moody St. in 1.5 mi., L Pine St. at 1st light after X-ing the river. Lot behind large apartments on L after theater. Heavy rain cancels. Well-behaved dogs OK - but not in museum; non-AMC members $1. L Charles Hansen (velotrain@yahoo.com).

Thurs, Oct 25, 2012. Harborwalk and North End, Boston. (walks) - approved July 12
Outdoors version: Leisurely 4-mi. walk along waterfront and through streets and alleyways of North End, including stop at Italian bakery, 6:30-9:00pm. Meet just inside the main doors at entrance to South Station T Stop and Train Station on Summer Street. Storm cancels. L Marc Hurwitz ((781) 864-1732; info@hiddenboston.com).
Web version: Leisurely 4-mi. walk along waterfront of downtown Boston and through streets and alleyways of North End, including stop at Italian bakery, 6:30-9:00pm. Meet just inside the main doors at entrance to South Station T Stop and Train Station on Summer Street. Storm cancels. No dogs; non-AMC members $1. L Marc Hurwitz.

Sat, Oct 27, 2012. Weston Conservation Land. (Hiking, walks) - approved July 12
Outdoors version: Easy 4-mi. walk. Sears Conservation Land w/varied habitat. 10:30am-1pm. Bring lunch/water. Meet Kendall Green RR sta. From Rte.95/128 exit26 (Waltham), take Rte.20E 1.0mi., L onto Rte.117W 1.6mi., L onto Church St. 1 block. Train from N.Sta. Storm cancels. L Marc Hurwitz ((781) 864-1732; info@hiddenboston.com).
Web version: Easy 4-mi. walk at Sears Conservation Land w/varied habitat in former industrial ctr. (1750-1930) of Weston, 10:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Bring lunch & water. Meet at Kendall Green RR sta. From Rte. 95/128 exit 26 in Waltham , take Rte. 20 E 1 mi., L onto Rte. 117 W 1.6 mi., L onto Church St. 1 block. Train from N. Sta. Storm cancels. L Marc Hurwitz.

Sat, Oct 27, 2012. Charles River, Cambridge/Boston. (walks) - approved July 12
Outdoors version: 5 mi. walk to Public Gardens, Boston Common, along river, crossing 3 bridges & end at Kenmore Sq., 10am-2pm. Optional lunch & social hr. after. Bring snack/water. Meet outside Kendall Sq. T sta., Cambridge. Storm cancels. L Sara Epstein ((781) 620-1014; sarachef@aol.com).
Web version: 5 mi. walk to Public Gardens, Boston Common, along river, crossing 3 bridges & end at Kenmore Sq., 10am-2pm. Optional lunch & social hr. after. Bring snack/water. Meet outside Kendall Sq. T sta., Cambridge. Storm cancels. No dogs; non-AMC members $1. L Sara Epstein ((781) 620-1014; sarachef@aol.com).

Sun, Oct 28, 2012. Blue Hills, Milton. (Hiking, walks) - approved July 12
Outdoors version: Moderate-to-strenuous hike including Skyline Trail, 9:30am-2:30pm. Bring lunch/water/sturdy footwear. From I-93/Route 128 Exit 3, travel north for 0.5mi. to stop sign, turn right on Hillside St. Go 0.2mi. to Houghton's Pond lot on right. Heavy rain cancels. L Henry Gardner ((781) 894-4383; henryghikes@gis.net).
Web version: Moderate-to-strenuous hike including Skyline Trail, 9:30am-2:30pm. Bring lunch/water/sturdy footwear. From I-93/Route 128 Exit 3, travel north for 0.5mi. to the stop sign, turn right on Hillside St. Go 0.2mi. to Houghton's Pond lot on right. Heavy rain cancels. No dogs; non-AMC members $1. L Henry Gardner (henryghikes@gis.net).

Sun, Oct 28, 2012. Caryl Park, Dover. (Hiking, walks) - approved July 12
Outdoors version: Fast-paced hike, 10am, 5mi. Rte.95/128 exit19, Highland Ave. 1.8mi. to Needham Ctr., R onto Rte.135 1 block, L onto Chestnut St. S 1.5mi., bear R at fork onto Dedham St. 1.5mi. Pkg.lot on L (tennis courts) past Mill Farm. L Joyce Beatty ((781) 444-5618; GeoJoy62@verizon.net).
Web version: Fast-paced hike, 10am, 5 mi. Rte. 95/128 exit 19, Highland Ave. 1.8 mi. to Needham Ctr., R onto Rte. 135 1 block, L onto Chestnut St. S 1.5 mi., bear R at fork onto Dedham St. 1.5mi. Pkg. lot on L (tennis courts) past Mill Farm. No dogs; non-AMC members $1. L Bill McDonald will substitute for Joyce Beatty. [Caryl Park/Noanet Woodlands Trail Map]

Sat, Nov 3, 2012. Blue Hills Hike, Milton. (Hiking, walks) - approved July 12
Outdoors version: Hike 7-mi. on a variety of trails, some steep, incl. Skyline Trail w/views, 10am-3:30pm. Meet at Houghton's Pond lot. From Rt. 93/128 Exit 3, go N to stop sign (Hillside St.), R 0.2 mi. to lot on R. Joint w/FBH. L Steve Olanoff ((781) 326-6585; olanoff@aol.com).
Web version: Hike 7 miles on a variety of trails in the Blue Hills Reservation, some steep, including the Skyline Trail with views, 10 am-3:30 pm. Meet at Houghton's Pond parking lot. From I-93/Route 128 Exit 3, go north to the stop sign at Hillside Street and turn right. Go 0.2 miles to the lot on the right. Joint with Friends of the Blue Hills. No dogs; non-AMC members $1. L Steve Olanoff.

Sat, Nov 3, 2012. Boston's Developing Waterfront. (walks) - approved July 12
Outdoors version: 10am-2pm. Moderately fast paced walk. Explore Fort Point Channel/Marine Industrial Park/Rowe's Wharf. Bring lunch/water. Storm cancels. Ltd to 12. Registration Required. L Sharon Marshall ((617) 542-4551, 7-9pm; smarshallmd@juno.com).
Web version: 10am-2pm. Moderately fast paced walk. Explore Fort Point Channel, Marine Industrial Park, Rowe's Wharf. Bring lunch, water. Storm cancels. Ltd to 12. No dogs; non-AMC members $1. L Sharon Marshall ((617) 542-4551, 7-9pm; smarshallmd@juno.com).

Sun, Nov 4, 2012. Middlesex Fells, Winchester. (Instruction, walks) - approved July 12
Outdoors version: Slow-paced nature walk through forest to Long Pond focusing on plant ID/fun natural history. 9:00am-12:00noon. Rte93 to exit 33 (Rte28, Fellsway West, Winchester). Go around rotary to South Border Rd, Winchester. Go about 2mi to Long Pond Parking Lot on right (opposite #532 S. Border Rd). Pkg limited, arrive early. Steady rain cancels. L Boot Boutwell ((781) 729-4712).
Web version: Slow-paced nature walk through the forest to Long Pond focusing on plant ID and fun natural history. 9:00 am - 12:00 noon. Rte 93 to exit 33 (Rte 28, Fellsway West, Winchester). Go around rotary to South Border Rd, Winchester. Go about 2 miles to Long Pond Parking Lot on right (opposite #532 S. Border Rd). Parking limited, arrive early. Steady rain cancels. No dogs; non-AMC members $1. L Boot Boutwell ((781) 729-4712).

Sun, Nov 4, 2012. Lincoln Conservation Land via Flint (Sandy) Pond and old Wheeler farm area, Lincoln. (Hiking, walks) - approved July 12
Outdoors version: 10mi. (less if >70deg) Meet at 9:45am in Lincoln RR commuter pkg. lot. From Rte.95/128 take exit 28 in Waltham, follow Trapelo Rd. W 2.5mi., L on Lincoln Rd. 1.4mi., R just before tracks into RR station lot. L Jim Loughlin ((617) 923-8039).
Web version: 10 miles (70+ temp. may lessen distance). Meet at 9:45am in Lincoln RR commuter pkg. lot. From Rte.95/128 take exit 28 in Waltham, follow Trapelo Rd. W 2.5 mi.., L on Lincoln Rd. 1.4 mi., R just before tracks into RR station lot. No dogs; non-AMC members $1. L Jim Loughlin ((617) 923-8039).

Sat, Nov 10, 2012. Blue Hills, Milton. (Hiking, walks) - approved July 12
Outdoors version: Mod.stren. 8-mi. hike on Skyline/other trails w/some steep hills, 9:30am. Bring lunch/water/sturdy footgear. Meet Houghton's Pond lot. Rte. 93/128 exit 3, go N to stop sign at Hillside St., R 0.2mi. to lot on R. Heavy rain cancels. L Corinne Waite ((781) 331-8472 eves 7-9 only).
Web version: Mod. stren. 8-mi. hike on Skyline & other trails w/some steep hills, 9:30am. Bring lunch, water, sturdy footgear. Meet at Houghton's Pond lot. From Rte. 93/128 exit 3, go N to stop sign at Hillside St., R 0.2 mi. to lot on R. Heavy rain cancels. No dogs; non-AMC members $1. L Corinne Waite ((781) 331-8472 eves 7-9 only).

Sat, Nov 17, 2012. Blue Hills Skyline Trail, Quincy. (Hiking, walks) - approved July 19
Outdoors version: 6.5-mi. loop hike with some steep hills, 10am-3pm, mainly Skyline Trail. Bring lunch/water/sturdy shoes. Meet Shea Ice Rink, Willard St., Quincy. From SE Expressway Exit8, S 0.6mi. on Willard St. From I-93/Route128 Exit6 Braintree, N 0.7mi. Storm cancels. L Mike Tuohey (breadcrumbs60@gmail.com).
Web version: 6.5-mi. loop hike with a number of steep hills, 10am-3pm, mainly on Skyline Trail, lunch on Nahanton Hill with great view, bring lunch, water and sturdy hiking shoes. Meet at Shea Ice Rink, Willard St., Quincy. From SE Expressway Exit 8, S 0.6mi. on Willard St. From I-93/Route128 Exit 6 Braintree, N 0.7mi. Storm cancels. No dogs. Non-AMC members, $1. L Mike Tuohey (breadcrumbs60@gmail.com).

Special designations:
C = Conservation program
F = Great for first timers in activity area
N = New members especially welcome