Appalachian Mountain Club Boston Chapter Local Walks/Hikes Committee Local Walks/Hikes for 2014 - brief descriptions

Meeting locations, driving directions, leader names, and other details have been omitted. See the current issue of AMC Outdoors (the monthly AMC members magazine) or the trip listings at http://trips.outdoors.org for this month's schedule. A partial listing of upcoming hikes is also available at the Local Walks/Hikes home page. The Photo Gallery pages have photos of some of the hiking areas.

January 2014

Wed, Jan 1. Lynn Woods, Lynn. 5 miles, L's Choice. 9:00am-1:00pm.

Sat, Jan 4. Weston Conservation Land. Moderate 7-mi. hike/snowshoe to Sears Land and Cat Rock , 9:30am-1:30pm. [Canceled due to extreme weather]

Sun, Jan 5. Blue Hills, Canton. Cross-country ski 6 miles, or hike up to 8 miles if no snow, across golf course, down trails, and around Ponkapoag Pond in the Blue Hills Reservation, 10am-3pm.

Sun, Jan 5. Middlesex Fells, Winchester. Slow-paced nature walk in the Bellevue Pond area focusing on plant ID and fun and interesting natural history of evergreens and other easily recognizable plants of winter. 9:30am-12:30pm.

Tues, Jan 7. Historic Streets of Boston. Leisurely 4-mi walk. Back Bay, South End, Beacon Hill. 6:45-9:00pm.

Sat, Jan 11. Arnold Arboretum, Jamaica Plain. 10:30-noon brisk walk off trail with stops at interesting trees.

Sat, Jan 11. Middlesex Fells, Malden. 6-mile. hike, some rocky steep hills to cliff views including waterfall w/lunch at pond. [Hike cancelled due to wet conditions and expected rain.]

Sun, Jan 12. J Harry Rich State Forest, Groton. This area features low-lying woods and great views of the Nashua River, including where the river has shifted leaving slow-flowing areas frequented by wildlife.

Sun, Jan 12. Powisett Farm, Dover. Snowshoe/walk, thru meadows, 1-3pm.

Sat, Jan 18. Blue Hills Skyline Trail, Quincy. 6.5-mile hike rocky terrain with a number of steep hills with views. [postponed to Feb 22 due to rain/snow]

Sun, Jan 19. Bedford/Burlington/Lexington Woodlands. Very hilly 6-mi. wander through various conservation & municipal lands. 9:45am-2:30pm.

Sun, Jan 19. Mt. Watatic, Ashburnham. Moderate-to-strenuous 5-mile hike to open summit with good views.

Mon, Jan 20. Blue Hills Ponkapoag Pond, Canton. Moderate pace 5-mi. hike/snowshoe around pond, 10:30am-2pm.

Mon, Jan 20. Statues of Boston. 10:30-noon. Meet Starbucks, corner of Beacon and Charles to walk the statues of Comm Ave, Beacon Hill, Quincy Market, North End.

Sat, Jan 25. Blue Hills, Milton. 5-mile snowshoe or hike, 11:00am.

Sun, Jan 26. Blue Hills, Quincy. Snowshoe 6 miles in the Eastern section of the Blue Hills Reservation over moderate terrain, or hike 7 miles in hilly areas if no snow, 10am-3pm.

Sun, Jan 26. Wayside Inn/Memorial Forest Reservation, Sudbury. Explore trails around Wayside Inn/Memorial Forest Reservation. Hot cider at historic Wayside Inn pub afterwards.

February 2014

Sat, Feb 1. Middlesex Fells, Winchester. Evergreens and other easily recognizable plants of winter. Slow-paced nature walk focusing on plant ID in winter and fun natural history. 12:30 - 3:30pm.

Sat, Feb 1. Wompatuck State Park, Hingham. 8 mile hike w/lunch at scenic pond, 9:30am-2:00pm.

Sun, Feb 2. Annual Soupe de Poisson Hike, Blue Hills. Walk in honor of Meade Bradner. Short hike then walk into Ponkapoag Camp for hot fish chowder.

Sun, Feb 2. Pond Meadow, Braintree. Easy/moderate 4-mi. walk/snowshoe. 9:45am-12pm.

Sat, Feb 8. Blue Hills, Quincy. Snowshoe 6 miles in the Chickatawbut section, the most remote area of the Blue Hills Reservation. Will hike 7 miles in hilly areas if no snow, 10 am-3 pm.

Sun, Feb 9. Blue Hills, Ponkapoag Pond, Canton. Moderate 5-mi. hike around Ponkapoag Pond, 12:30-3:30pm.

Sun, Feb 9. Groton Place To Surrendon Farms, Groton. We'll start at the popular "dog park", but explore the lesser-known gems beyond. Includes hiking along the scenic Nashua River, but also varied upland forest and open fields. About 2-3 hours.

Sat, Feb 15. Neponset River Greenway, Milton Hill. 5-mile walk along Neponset River to Hutchinson Field, 9:30am-12:15pm.

Sun, Feb 16. Borderland State Park, No. Easton. [CANCELLED DUE TO SNOWSTORM] Hike 5 mi. on a variety of trails. Meet at 10:00am at the Visitors Center.

Mon, Feb 17. Blue Hills Ponkapoag Pond, Canton. Moderate pace 5-mi. hike/snowshoe around pond, 10:30am-2pm.

Sat, Feb 22. Blue Hills Skyline Trail, Quincy. 6.5-mile hike rocky terrain with a number of steep hills with views.

Sun, Feb 23. Marblehead Light and Castle Rock, Marblehead. Approx 4-mi walk from Deveraux Beach to Castle Rock and Marblehead Light followed by optional hot chocolate break. 12:30-3:30pm.

March 2014

Sat, Mar 1. Hale Reservation, Westwood/Dover. Mod. 6-mi. snowshoe/hike including ponds, cabins, lodges, 9:30am-1:30pm.

Sat, Mar 1. West Quincy Quarries & Granite Railway, Quincy. 5.5-mi.walk to Granite Railway & quarries, some rock scrambling and steep sections, 10:30am-2:30pm.

Sun, Mar 2. Blue Hills Hike, Milton. Seven-mile hike in the Houghton section of the Blue Hills Reservation on a variety of trails with several views and lunch on Buck Hill, 10am-3:30pm. Joint with Friends of the Blue Hills.

Sat, Mar 8. Middlesex Fells, Malden. 6-mile. hike, some rocky steep hills to cliff views including waterfall w/lunch at pond. Moderate-rated hike, not for beginners. 10:00am-2:30pm.

Sun, Mar 9. Bay Circuit Trail, Concord. Slow-paced walk of about 5 miles along section of Bay Circuit Trail.

Sat, Mar 15. Middlesex Fells, Winchester. Hike/snowshoe; 10am. Wedgmere Station (Lowell Line). Return for 1:30pm train.

Sat, Mar 15. Weston Conservation Land. Moderate 7-mi. hike/snowshoe to Sears Land and Cat Rock , 9:30am-1:30pm.

Sun, Mar 16. Wayside Inn to Sudbury Valley Memorial Forest. Approximately 4 miles on back roads and trails, 1:00-4:00pm.

Sun, Mar 16. Williams Barn and Sorhaug Woods, Groton. 1:00pm. This hike has a bit of everything, from a low-lying beaver pond, to upland woods, to open orchard, to the highest point in Groton.

Tues, Mar 18. Historic Streets of Boston. Leisurely 4-mi walk. Back Bay, South End, Beacon Hill. 6:45-9:00pm.

Sat, Mar 22. World's End Reservation, Hingham. 5 mile hike/snowshoe, 9:00am-noon.

Sun, Mar 23. Walden Pond/Sudbury River hike on less traveled paths. Hike on less-traveled paths. 6 miles. Meet at 10:30am.

Sat, Mar 29. Blue Hills Skyline Trail, Quincy. Moderate-rated hike, not for beginners. 6.5-mi. loop hike with a number of steep hills, 10am-3pm, mainly on Skyline Trail, lunch on Nahanton Hill with great view.

Sun, Mar 30. Joe English Reservation, Amherst, NH. A 7 mile quiet, hilly wander 9:30am-3:30pm through varied woodlands on well maintained trails.

Sun, Mar 30. Arnold Arboretum, Jamaica Plain. 10:00am-noon guided hike with Arboretum docent on and off trail, up and down hills, stopping at interesting trees.

Sun, Mar 30. Middlesex Fells, Winchester. Sheepfold Pkg. lot. Mod to stren. 6 mi. hike over many hills & rough terrain. 9am-1pm.

Sun, Mar 30. Warner Trail, Sharon. Trail clearing, from 12-4:30pm.

Sun, Mar 30. Explore East Boston. From 10am-1:30pm. Harbor walk, Greenway, Piers Park, Chelsea Urban Wild, and more.

April 2014

Sat, Apr 5. Castle Island, South Boston. Fast-paced seven-mile scenic walk along ocean to Castle Island, 10:00am-1:30pm.

Sat, Apr 5. Middlesex Fells, Medford. Slow-paced nature walk in search of early flowering plants and other signs of approaching spring. The walk will focus on plant ID and interesting natural history. 9:00am-12:00pm.

Sun, Apr 6. Mine Falls Park, Nashua, NH. 6-mile easy walk along Nashua River, canal with 1886 gatehouse, spectacular waterfall in 325-acre park, from 9:45am-2pm.

Sun, Apr 6. Mt. Misery , Farrar Pond, and adj. conservation areas, Lincoln, MA. 9 mi. Meet at 9:30am in Lincoln RR commuter pkg. lot.

Sun, Apr 6. Warner Trail, Cumberland, RI. 9:30am-4pm. 10-mi. mod. hike from Wampum Corner, Wrentham to Diamond Hill. 70th season.

Sun, Apr 6. Middlesex Fells, Stoneham. Easy 2 hr. walk in Middlesex Fells. Meet at 2pm at Greenwood Park.

Sat, Apr 12. Wompatuck State Park, Hingham. 8.5 mile. hike w/lunch at scenic pond, 9:30am-2:00pm.

Sat, Apr 12. Delaney Wildlife Mgt. Area, Stow, MA. Meet at 10am, finish by mid-afternoon. 6-7 miles. Two small stream crossings.

Sat, Apr 12. Walden Woods, Wright Forest, Concord, MA. Thoreau interpretive path, forest, marshes, vernal pool (frog chorus). 10:00am-1:30pm.

Sun, Apr 13. Blue Hills, Milton. 7-mile hike on a variety of trails in the Blue Hill Section of the Blue Hills Reservation. Some steep trails, including the Skyline Trail with views, 10:00am-3:00pm. Joint with Friends of the Blue Hills.

Sun, Apr 13. The Throne, Groton. 1:00pm. Hike thru one of the largest contiguous undeveloped parcels in the area, featuring mostly upland forest and generally pretty woods. About 2 hours.

Sun, Apr 13. Warner Trail, Wrentham. 9:30am-4pm. 10-mi. mod. hike from Wampum Corner to Crocker Pond.

Fri, Apr 18. Harborwalk and North End, Boston. 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.

Sat, Apr 19. Spring Comes to Beacon Hill and Back Bay. From 1:00pm to 3:00pm. Admire seasonal plantings; several hilly streets.

Sat, Apr 19. Parks & Greenways, Quincy. 7-mi. walk w/beach, woods, salt marshes, historic sites, 10:00am-2:30pm.

Sun, Apr 20. Minute Man National Park. Spring on the Battle Road. Share some revolutionary tales along the Battle Road in the Minute Man Park from 9:30am to noon. Walk 7 brisk miles from the Visitor's Center to the North Bridge.

Sun, Apr 20. Arnold Arboretum, Jamaica Plain. 1:00-3:00pm guided hike with Arboretum docent, on and off trail, up and down hills, stopping at interesting trees.

Sun, Apr 20. Lynn Woods, Lynn. Leader's Choice, 5 miles, 9am-1pm.

Mon, Apr 21. Half-Marathon Walk, Minuteman Nat'l Park, Lexington. Brisk 13-mile walk on Battle Road Trail to Fiske Hill in Lexington, Meriam's Corner in Concord, and back. 9:30am-3:30pm.

Mon, Apr 21. Boston Marathon Hike. 19th annual hike, eight miles via Arboretum, Allandale and Hancock Woods, Hammond Pond Park to Heartbreak Hill, 9:00am-12:30pm.

Sat, Apr 26. Acton Arboretum, Acton. Slow-paced nature walk in search of a variety of early spring wild flowers and other signs of spring. The walk will focus on plant ID and natural history. 12:30-3:30pm.

Sat, Apr 26. Middlesex Fells, Malden. Hike to cliff-top, waterfall and pond views, from 10am-2:15pm.

Sun, Apr 27. Blue Hills, Milton, MA. 5-mi. hike, 10:00am. Meet at Houghton's Pond pkg. lot.

Sun, Apr 27. Middlesex Canal, Winchester/Medford. 3-mi. level history walk will follow the route of the Middlesex Canal through parts of Medford and Winchester.

Sun, Apr 27. Warner Trail, Foxboro. 9am-4pm. 10-mi. mod. hike from Moose Hill in Sharon to High Rock in Foxboro.

May 2014

Sat, May 3. Neponset River Greenway/Milton Hill. 5-mile walk along Neponset River to Hutchinson Field, 9:30am-12:15pm.

Sat, May 3. Nagog Hill, Acton. Bird walk to look for migrating woodland and water birds, 8-10am. Bring binocs & bird book.

Sun, May 4. Lincoln Conservation Land hike via Flint (Sandy) Pond and old Wheeler farm area. 10 miles. [70+ temp. may lessen distance.]

Sun, May 4. Mt. Wachusett, Princeton. Steep climb to open summit with great views. About 5 miles round trip at easy pace.

Sun, May 4. Plymouth Beach walk. 9:15am. Optional ice cream stop in Plymouth Center after walk.

Sun, May 4. Borderland State Park, Easton. 6-mi. hike, woods trails, Moyle's quarry, 9am-2pm.

Sat, May 10. Wellesley Wander. 5-6-mile circuit with Wellesley College greenhouses and campus, Lake Waban, Charles River, brooks and aqueducts.

Sat, May 10. Blue Hills Bird Walk. Beginner's bird walk 3 miles through Fowl Meadow, 7-10:30am. Learn to bird. See both common and rare bird species at the height of spring migration in the best birding area in the Blue Hills Reservation. Joint with Friends of the Blue Hills.

Sat, May 10. Warner Trail, Sharon. 9am-5pm. 15-mi. mod. hike from Edge Hill Rd. in Sharon to High Rock in Foxboro.

Sat, May 10. Arnold Arboretum, Jamaica Plain. Scenic, mod. 5-mi. walk w/many stops to view plants & trees in bloom. 10:30am-1:30pm.

Sun, May 11. Blue Hills, Ponkapoag Pond. 4 mi. mod.-paced hike, 10:30am-1:30pm.

Sun, May 11. Acton/Littleton Conservation Land. 9:30am-2:30pm. This 7½ mi. route wanders through a portion of Acton's Nagog Hill area, hugs the shore of Nagog Pond, loops through the hilly Sarah Doublet area in Littleton where we plan to have lunch and offer an optional excursion to Fort Pond via a short spur trail. Our return covers the remaining portion of Nagog Pond.

Sun, May 11. Maudslay State Park, Newburyport. 10:00am to 2:00pm moderate pace.

Tues, May 13. Great Streets of Cambridge. Leisurely 4-mi. walk along historic streets around Harvard and Porter Squares and Huron Village, 6:45-8:45pm.

Sat, May 17. Middlesex Fells, Malden. 6-mile. hike, some rocky steep hills to cliff views including waterfall w/lunch at pond. Moderate-rated hike, not for beginners. 10:00am-2:30pm.

Sat, May 17. Wayside Inn Lady Slipper walk. 9:30am-12:00pm. Meet at the large parking lot across from The Wayside Inn, Sudbury MA.

Sun, May 18. Boston's Developing Waterfront - Marine Industrial Park, Black Falcon Pier, Harbor Walk, and Rose Kennedy Greenway. 10:00am-2:00pm.

Sun, May 18. Groton Town Forest. 1:00pm. Explore the varied topography and habitats of this scenic woodland, including eskers, kettle holes, dry upland, marsh, the dead river, and more.

Sun, May 18. Borderland State Park, N. Easton. 5 miles, 9:45am.

Sat, May 24. Blue Hills Wildflower Hike. 7-mile hike in the eastern section of the Blue Hills Reservation viewing wildflowers and climbing scenic hills, some steep, including the new trail along the restored Blue Hill Reservoir. 10 am-3:30 pm.

Sun, May 25. Lincoln (MA)/Concord hike to Sudbury River incl. Adams and Fairhaven Woods, Walden Pond and Pine Hill areas. 10 mi. [70+ temp. may lessen distance.] Meet at 10:00am in Lincoln RR commuter pkg. lot.

Sat, May 31. Blue Hills Bird Walk. Bird Walk 3 miles through Fowl Meadow, 8-11:30am. Learn to bird by listening for and identifying late migrant and nesting species in the best birding area in the Blue Hills Reservation. Bring your binoculars and a bird book if you have one. Joint with Friends of the Blue Hills.

Sat, May 31. West Quincy Quarries & Granite Railway. 5.5-mi.walk to Granite Railway & quarries, some rock scrambling and steep sections, 10:30am-2:30pm.

June 2014

Sun, June 1. Nantasket Beach Walk. Meet at 9:15am.

Sat, June 7. Middlesex Fells, Winchester. 5.2-mile hike along Reservoir Trail (Orange Blazes, Clockwise Loop), 10:30am.

Sun, June 8. Mts. Major & Straightback, NH. Leisurely/scenic 5mi. hike. Steep climb to rocky summit with panoramic views of Lake Winnipesaukee.

Sat, June 14. Blue Hills Skyline Trail, Quincy. 6.5-mile hike rocky terrain with a number of steep hills with views.

Sat, June 14. Northern Lynn Woods, Lynn. Challenging 6-mi. hike through rugged terrain, 9:30am-1:00pm.

Sat, June 14. Mountain Laurel loop in Leominster State Forest. Mountain laurel should be in full bloom and Leominster State Forest has broad stands of the shrub. Loop walk is mostly on cart roads over rolling and varied terrain. Meet at 10:00am. Dogs welcome, moderate pace, 6.5 miles.

Sun, June 15. Massabesic Audubon Center, Auburn, NH. 6 mi. easy wander along wooded trails and lake shore, 10:00am-3:00pm.

Sun, June 15 (Fathers' Day). Hale Reservation, Westwood. Easy walk, mostly woods, across a dam & thru a meadow, 1:00-3:00pm.

Sun, June 15. Wollaston Beach, Quincy. Fast-paced 7-mi walk along Wollaston Beach, Marina Bay, Squantum, 9:00am-noon.

Tues, June 17. Harborwalk and North End, Boston. 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.

Sat, June 21. Wompatuck State Park, Hingham. 8.5 mile. hike w/lunch at scenic pond, 9:30am-2:00pm.

Sun, June 22. Boston's Back Bay Fens. 10:00am-1:30pm. Boston's Back Bay Fens including the Rose Garden and Victory Gardens and the cultural and academic neighborhood.

Sun, June 22. Mt. Auburn Cemetery, Cambridge/Watertown. 2.5 hr. introductory walk exploring its beauty and history. Theme: Beliefs & Symbols.

Sun, June 22. Rocky Hill Sanctuary and adjoining woodlands. 1:00pm. This is a great area to hike around in, with a beautiful point on Long Pond, a beaver marsh, hills, a true bog, and more. About 2 hours.

Wed, June 25. West Cambridge. Moderate paced 5-mi. city walk will include Longfellow Park, Brattle Street, many historic stops and return along the Charles River. 6-9pm.

Sat, June 28. Middlesex Fells, Malden. 7-mi. shady hike w/lunch at pond, 10am-2:15pm.

Sun, June 29. Leominster State Forest, Leominster, MA. 6 mi. scenic hike Redemption Rock to Crow Hill cliffs/back. Carpool-Lincoln. 9:30am-4pm.

Sun, June 29. Lincoln/Concord Conservation Land. Moderate hike to Sudbury River/Fairhaven Bay, 9:30am-2:00pm.

July 2014

Fri, July 4. Worlds End Reservation. Scenic 5-mi. walk, 8:30-11:30am.

Fri, July 4. Parks & Greenways, Boston. 10-mi. walk incl. Arnold Arboretum, Emerald Necklace, SW Corridor Park, Boston Harborwalk, Freedom Trail, 12:30-5:15pm. [cancelled - rain]

Sat, July 5. Parks & Greenways, Quincy. 7-mi. walk w/beach, woods, salt marshes, historic sites, 10:00am-2:30pm.

Sat, July 5. Blue Hills, Milton. 4-mi. hike, 12:30-2:45pm.

Sun, July 6. Charles River's Edge: Cambridge-Charlestown-Boston. Approx. 5-6 mi. walk via North Point Park, new North Bank Bridge, USS Constitution, and Charles River Dam.

Sun, July 6. Middlesex Fells, Winchester. Sheepfold pkg. lot. Mod to stren. 6 mi. hike over many hills & rough terrain. 9:00am-2:00pm.

Wed, July 9. Prospect Hill Park, Waltham. 6:30-8:30pm. Moderately-paced hike on trails and roads with views.

Thurs, July 10. East Boston Greenway/Harborwalk. Meet 6:00pm. 2 hrs (longer if desired). Piers Park, Boston Harbor Sculpture Park, stop at Boston's only Aussie bistro.

Sat, July 12. Midstate Trail Series, Westminster and Ashburnham. Meet 10:00am at "graffiti bridge" on Oakmont Ave. near corner with North Common Road in Westminster. Leave some cars here and shuttle to where trail crosses Route 12 in Ashburnham. Hike south around beautiful, remote Muddy Pond, with rolling terrain and moderate pace; 5.8 miles.

Sat, July 12. Central Blue Hills, Blue Hills Reservation. Difficult 6-mi. hike including views from lesser-known trails, 9:30am-1:30pm.

Sat, July 12. Middlesex Fells, Winchester. Easy walk in open woods. 10:00am-2:00pm.

Sun, July 13. Coolidge Corner, Brookline to Logan Airport Walk. Coolidge Corner, Brookline to Logan Airport. 12 mi. Follow Charles River to Charlestown. Explore historic sites in Charlestown and then on to Everett, Chelsea, and E. Boston. Return via T.

Sun, July 13. Lynn Woods, Lynn. 5 miles, Leader's Choice. From 9am-1pm.

Tues, July 15. Blue Hills, Milton. Moderate 4-mi. after-work hike including possible sunset view, 6:45-8:45pm.

Sat, July 19. Neponset River Greenway/Milton Hill. 5-mile walk along Neponset River to Hutchinson Field, 9:30am-12:15pm.

Sat, July 19. Manchester-Essex Conservation Area, Manchester, MA. Slow-paced nature walk through forest up to the top of Millstone Hill focusing on plant ID and fun and interesting natural history. 9:30am-12:30pm.

Sun, July 20. Midstate Trail Series, Westminster. Meet at 1:00pm in Westminster at Stone Hill Road/Narrows Road. Hike south, around working farm, by Round Meadow Pond and Wachusett Village Inn, about 5 miles.

Sat, July 26. Midstate Trail Series, Westminster and Leominster. Meet 9:00am at Wachusett Mtn. Ski Area. Hike south over scenic Crow Hill ledges and by Redemption Rock to ski area, 5 miles over rolling terrain with short steeps and moderate pace.

Sat, July 26. Blue Hills, Milton. Moderate hike, 6+ mi. on lesser used trails, some steep hills. 9:30am.

Sun, July 27. Purgatory Falls, Milford, NH. 6-mi. lollipop route along picturesque stream past waterfalls, cascades, along ledges & hilly forest terrain, 9:30am-3:30pm.

August 2014

Sat, Aug 2. Middlesex Fells, Malden. 6-mile. hike, some rocky steep hills to cliff views including waterfall w/lunch at pond. Moderate-rated hike, not for beginners. 10:00am-2:30 pm. [Cancelled due to rain.]

Sun, Aug 3. Horn Pond Conservation Land, Woburn. Slow paced nature walk looking for late summer wildflowers and fruits. Focus on plant ID and fun natural history. 9:00am-12:00noon.

Thurs, Aug 7. Prospect Hill Park, Waltham. 6:15-8:15pm. Moderately-paced hike on trails and roads with views.

Sat, Aug 9. Midstate Trail hike over Wachusett. Meet 10:00am, shuttle to parking lot of Wachusett Mtn. Ski Area. Hike south over mountain summit and then through Wachusett Meadows Audubon Preserve, 6.2 miles. Rolling terrain with some steeps; moderately strenuous.

Sat, Aug 9. Blue Hills, Ponkapoag Pond. 4 mi. beat-the-heat hike, 7:00am-9:00am.

Sat, Aug 9. Blue Hills, Canton. [late, web-only listing] Moderate 6-mi. hike including lesser-used trails in the Tucker Hill and Buck Hill areas, 9:15am-1:00pm.

Sun, Aug 10. Great Meadows Wildlife Refuge, Sleepy Hollow Cemetery & North Bridge, Concord. See water lotus in bloom, authors' graves and other Concord wonders on slow-paced, 5 mile ramble. Meet 10:00am.

Sun, Aug 10. Noanet Woodlands, Dover. Morning hike with ponds and views. 9:00am-noon.

Sun, Aug 10. Middlesex Fells, Winchester. Sheepfold pkg. lot. Mod to stren. 6 mi. hike over many hills & rough terrain. 9:00am-1:00pm.

Sat, Aug 16. West Quincy Quarries & Granite Railway. 5.5-mile walk to Granite Railway & quarries, some rock scrambling and steep sections, 10:30am-2:30pm.

Sat, Aug 16. Boston's South End Old and New. [Registration Required] From 10:00am-2:00pm. Walk shady streets and explore social history, architecture, filled land & parks.

Sun, Aug 17. Midstate Trail hike. Meet at 11:00am at Barre Falls Dam. Hike south 8.5 miles over back roads, through Ware River watershed and Savage Hill.

Sun, Aug 17. Lynn Woods, Lynn. 5 miles, Leader's Choice. From 9am-1pm.

Fri, Aug 22. Historic Streets of Charlestown. Leisurely 4-mi walk including water views and old homes. 6:30-8:30pm.

Sat, Aug 23. Midstate Trail hike. Meet 9:00am at trail crossing on East Hill Road in Rutland [GPS 42.340975 - 71.996883]. Leave some cars and shuttle to Barre Falls Dam.

Sat, Aug 23. Breakheart Reservation, Saugus. 5 mile challenging hike, 9:30am-1:00pm.

Sat, Aug 23. Middlesex Fells, Winchester. Easy walk in open woods. 10:00am-2:00pm.

Sun, Aug 24. Hike North Pack Monadnock, Greenfield, NH. A rugged, scenic loop of 6.5mi. via Ted's & Carolyn's trails. 9:30am-2:30pm.

Sat, Aug 30. Midstate Trail past half-way mark. Meet 10:00am on trail crossing at 4H Club horse barns near Buck Hill in Spencer. Hike south 5.2 miles around Treasure Valley and by Thompson Pond. Rolling terrain and moderate difficulty.

Sat, Aug 30. Blue Hills Skyline Trail, Quincy. 6.5-mile hike, rocky terrain with a number of steep hills with views. Moderate-rated hike, not for beginners. 10:00am-3:00pm, mainly on Skyline Trail, lunch on Nahanton Hill with great view.

Sun, Aug 31. Parks & Greenways, Cambridge to Malden. Mostly wooded, somewhat hilly 9-mi. hike w/8 ponds and incl. Middlesex Fells & ending at Oak Grove T sta., 9:30am-2:30pm.

September 2014

Mon, Sept 1. World's End Reservation, Hingham. 5 mile walk, 8:30am-11:30am.

Mon, Sept 1. Arnold Arboretum, Jamaica Plain. 4-mi. walk among 5000 kinds of trees & shrubs, 12:30-2:45pm.

Tues, Sept 2. Castle Island, South Boston. Leisurely 4-mi. walk along harbor, 6:15-7:45pm.

Sat, Sept 6. Wompatuck State Park, Hingham. 8.5 mile. hike w/lunch at scenic pond, 9:30am-2:00pm.

Sat, Sept 6. Middlesex Fells, Winchester. Fast-paced 7-mile hike to lesser-known hills in the western Fells. 9:30am-1:30pm.

Sun, Sept 7. Lincoln/Concord Conservation Land. Moderate hike to Mt Misery/Fairhaven Bay, 9:30am-2:30pm.

Sun, Sept 7. Midstate Trail hike in Spencer hills. Meet at 1:00pm near where trail crosses Route 9 in Spencer at Spencer Country Inn. Hike south over Moose Hill and across Moose Hill Reservoir dam back to Route 9, 6 miles moderate pace over short, steep hills.

Sat, Sept 13. Midstate Trail through Spencer & Audubon land. Meet 10:00am in Spencer where trail crosses near corner of Ash Street and East Charlton Road [near 160 Ash Street, GPS 42.218513 - 71.980095].

Sat, Sept 13, 2014. Horn Pond Conservation Land, Woburn. Moderate 4-mile walk including water views, hike up Horn Pond Mountain, 11:15am-1:15pm.

Sun, Sept 14. Burrage Pond, Hanson. 5-mile hike, 9:30-11:45am on abandoned cranberry bog, sandy trails featuring open water and marshland.

Sun, Sept 14. Horn Pond Conservation Land, Woburn. Slow paced nature walk looking for late summer wildflowers and fruits. Focus on plant ID and fun natural history. 9:00am-noon.

Sun, Sept 14. Wharton Plantation, Groton. 1:00pm. Come explore the Rocky Hill section of the NEFF Wharton Plantation and adjoining conservation lands. This features streams, beaver ponds, upland forest, and all-around pretty woods.

Sat, Sept 20. Midstate Trail hike. Meet 9:00am where trail crosses Route 20 in Charlton. Leave cars here and drive to Spencer, hike south 6.4 miles, ending with walk through cow tunnel under Route 20.

Sat, Sept 20. Parks & Greenways, Quincy. 7-mi. walk w/beach, woods, salt marshes, historic sites, 10:00am-2:30pm.

Sun, Sept 21. Explore East Boston. From 10am-2pm. Harbor walk, beaches, historic sites, and more.

Sun, Sept 21. Lynn Woods, Lynn. Leader's Choice, 5 miles, 9:00am-1:00pm.

Sun, Sept 21. Duxbury Beach. 10:00am. From Powder Point Bridge to the peninsula surrounded by ocean and bay, hike the beach, then through thick pine forest on ocean side and marsh on the bay, walk to Plum Hills, return same way. Lunch at French Memories, Duxbury Center.

Sat, Sept 27. Midstate Trail over French River in Oxford. Meet 10:00am in Oxford, leave cars and drive to trail crossing in Charlton, hike south through Hodges Village Dam area to Rocky Hill Road, 5 miles.

Sat, Sept 27. Middlesex Fells, Winchester. 10am-2:30pm. Moderate walk. Meet Wedgmere Station, Winchester.

Sun, Sept 28. Middlesex Fells, Winchester. Sheepfold Pkg. lot. Mod to stren. 6-7 mi. hike over many hills & rough terrain. 9:00am-2:00pm.

Sun, Sept 28. Caryl Park, Dover. Fast-paced hike, 10am, 5mi.

Sun, Sept 28. Bedford/Burlington/Lexington Woodlands. Very hilly 6-mi. wander through various conservation & municipal lands. 9:45am-2:30pm.

October 2014

Sat, Oct 4. Acton Arboretum. Slow-paced nature walk in search of a variety of autumn fruits and wildflowers. The walk will focus on plant ID and natural history. 9:30am-12:30pm.

Sat, Oct 4. Neponset River Greenway/Milton Hill. 5-mile walk along Neponset River to Hutchinson Field, 9:30am-12:15pm.

Sun, Oct 5. Midstate Trail Oxford to Sutton. Meet in West Sutton, leave some cars, drive to Oxford, and hike south 6.5 miles to West Sutton.

Sun, Oct 5. Blue Hills, Milton. Moderate-to-strenuous hike including Skyline Trail, 9:30am-2:30pm.

Sun, Oct 5. Boston/Charlestown Harbor Walk. Visit scenic & historic sites on brisk 12-mi. walk along waterfront from Charlestown to Dorchester Heights, 9:00am. Stop for lunch in North End.

Sat, Oct 11. Midstate Trail in Douglas woods. Meet 10:00am at Route 16 trail crossing in Douglas. Leave some cars there and shuttle to West Sutton. Hike south to Route 16, 6.2 miles.

Sat, Oct 11. Blue Hills, Quincy. Difficult 7 mi. hike through hilly, remote areas on mostly little-used trails, 9:30am-2:00pm.

Sun, Oct 12. Wollaston Beach, Quincy. Fast-paced 7-mi walk along Wollaston Beach, Marina Bay, Squantum, 9:00am-noon.

Sun, Oct 12. Middlesex Fells, Winchester. Sheepfold Pkg. lot. Mod to stren. 6-7 mi. hike over many hills & rough terrain. 9:00am-2:00pm.

Sun, Oct 12. Emerald Necklace, Boston. 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.

Sun, Oct 12. Williams Barn area, Groton. 1:00pm. New conservation land has been acquired and new trails built in this beautiful area.

Sun, Oct 12. Warner Trail, Cumberland, RI. 10-mi. hike w/varied scenery from Wampum Corner, Wrentham, S to Diamond Hill, RI, 9:30am-4:00pm.

Mon, Oct 13. Blue Hills - Ponkapoag Pond, Canton. 5 mile morning hike around Ponkapoag, 9:30-11:30am.

Sat, Oct 18. Middlesex Fells, Malden. 6-mile. hike, some rocky steep hills to cliff views including waterfall w/lunch at pond, Moderate-rated hike, not for beginners. 10:00am-2:30pm.

Sat, Oct 18. Midstate Trail 9-mile trek into RI. Meet 9:30am on Rhode Island side of Wallum Lake, by Buck Hill Fire Tower. Leave some cars and shuttle to Route 16 in Douglas, where Midstate crosses road. Walk south through Douglas State Forest past R.I. border-about 9 miles total on rolling terrain, moderate pace.

Sun, Oct 19. Lynn Woods, Lynn. 5 miles, Leader's Choice. 9:00am-1:00pm.

Sun, Oct 19. Middlesex Canal, North Billerica. Level 5-mi. walk along historic canal N to Chelmsford, 1:30-4pm. Joint Middlesex Canal Association - Appalachian Mountain Club Fall Walk.

Sun, Oct 19. Joe English Reservation, Amherst, NH. A 7 mile quiet, hilly wander 9:30am-3:30pm through varied woodlands on well maintained trails.

Fri, Oct 24. Historic Streets of Boston. Leisurely 4-mi walk. Back Bay, South End, Beacon Hill. 6:45-9:00pm.

Sat, Oct 25. Lincoln/Weston Conservation Land. Fast-paced 7-mile hike to remote areas, including Ogilvie and Jericho woods, 9:30am-1:30pm.

Sun, Oct 26. Charles River, Cambridge/Boston. 5 mi. walk to Public Gardens, Boston Common, along river, crossing 3 bridges & end at Kenmore Sq., 10am-2pm.

Sun, Oct 26. Greenwood Park, Middlesex Fells, Stoneham. Easy 2 hr. walk in Middlesex Fells. Meet at 2pm at Greenwood Park (across from Stone Zoo).

Sun, Oct 26. Dogtown Commons, Gloucester. Halloween hike to see witches homes and moral admonitions carved on boulders. Slow-paced, 6- mi. rocky hike with some steep sections, 10am-4pm.

Sun, Oct 26. Caryl Park, Dover. Fast-paced hike, 10am, 5mi.

Sun, Oct 26. Walking Tour of the Arnold Arboretum. [Flyer for event] Meet at 10am at the Arnold Arboretum for a walk sponsored by the National Park Service. “The Arnold Arboretum: Nature That Inspires” is a leisurely two-mile walk that will explore the roles that artists played in early conservation efforts. Participants will learn how the design of the Arboretum helped people connect to nature in a public park, just as early photographs and vivid writing enticed tourists to Yosemite. [Note: This is not an AMC event, but it should be great.]

November 2014

Sat, Nov 1. Boston's Developing Waterfront. Moderately fast-paced walk. Explore Ft. Point Channel, Marine Industrial Park, Seaport District, Rowe's Wharf, Rose Kennedy Greenway. 10:00am-2:00pm.

Sat, Nov 1. Grassy Pond Conservation Land, Acton, MA. Slow-paced nature walk through woods and fields focusing on plant ID and fun natural history. 9:30am-12:30pm.

Sat, Nov 1, 2014. Midstate Trail - Mt. Watatic. Meet 10:00am for a loop hike to Watatic summit at MST northern terminus.

Sun, Nov 2. Blue Hills Hike, Milton. Hike 7 miles on a variety of trails in the Blue Hills Reservation, some steep, including the Skyline Trail with views, 10 am-3 pm. [CANCELLED - weather.]

Sat, Nov 8. Castle Island, South Boston. Fast-paced seven-mile scenic walk along ocean to Castle Island, 10:00am-1:30pm. Bring lunch and water. Meet inside JFK/UMass Red Line T station, upper level gates (no nearby parking). Storm cancels. L Beth Mosias.

Sat, Nov 8. Cutler Park Reservation, Needham. 2 to 2½ hour walk in Cutler Park, located in Dedham and Needham.

Sat, Nov 8. National Park Service Walking Tour at DCR Stony Brook Reservation. Commencing at 10:00am, the National Park Service (NPS) and the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) are offering a guided hike of the Stony Brook Reservation entitled “Charles Eliot’s Master Plan.” This roughly 90-minute tour meets at the DCR Stony Brook Reservation Headquarters, 12 Brainard Street in Hyde Park. Afterwards, rangers from the National Park Service and the DCR will be available for informal questions. The hike will be held rain or shine and is free and open to the public. No advance reservations are required. For more information, please call Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site at 617-566-1689, extension 238 or the DCR at 617-333-7405, extension 104. [Note: This is not an AMC event, but it should be quite interesting.]

Sun, Nov 9. Sheldrick Forest & Heald Tract, Wilton, NH. Six-mile hike through diverse woodlands and hilly old-growth forest with streams, ponds, ridges, eskers and interpretive points.

Sat, Nov 15. Midstate Trail hike in Ashburnham - Mt. Hunger. Meet 9:00am at trail crossing at Route 12 in Ashburnham, shuttle to trail parking lot on north side of Route 119, hike south over Fisher Hill and Mount Hunger with great views, 6.7 miles at moderate pace and short, steep climbs, back to Route 12.

Sat, Nov 15. West Quincy Quarries & Granite Railway. 5.5-mi.walk to Granite Railway & quarries, some rock scrambling and steep sections, 10:30am-2:30pm.

Sat, Nov 15. Middlesex Fells, Stoneham. Easy 2 hr. walk in Middlesex Fells. Meet at 2pm at Greenwood Park (across from Stone Zoo).

Sun, Nov 16. Hale Reservation, Powisett Farm, Westwood. Easy walk, mostly woods, across a dam & thru a meadow, 1-3pm.

Sun, Nov 16. Blue Hills Hike, Milton. Hike 7 miles in the Houghton section of the Blue Hills Reservation on a variety of trails with several views and lunch on Buck Hill, 10am-3pm. Joint with Friends of the Blue Hills.

Sat, Nov 22. Blue Hills Ponkapoag Pond Hike in honor and memory of Eddie DeSantis. Brisk paced 4-5 mi around Ponkapoag Pond, 9:30am-noon. This hike is in honor and memory of our dear friend and fellow Blue Hills hiker Eddie DeSantis who recently passed away at the age of 93.

Sun, Nov 23. Burrage Pond, Hanson. 5-mile hike, 10:00am-12:15pm on abandoned cranberry bog, sandy trails featuring open water and marshland.

Fri, Nov 28. Annual Ayer/Groton Hills walk. Explore the the natural areas between the Nashua River and the Snake Hills.

Fri, Nov 28. Blue Hills Skyline Trail, Quincy. Moderate-rated hike, not for beginners. 6.5-mi. loop hike with a number of steep hills, 10am-3pm, mainly on Skyline Trail.

Sun, Nov 30. Blue Hills, Milton, MA. Extremely challenging 5-mi. hike/snowshoe on steep, scenic trails to Great Blue, Little Blue, and more, 9:15am-12:45pm.

December 2014

Tues, Dec 2. Great Streets of Cambridge. Leisurely 4-mi. walk along historic streets around Harvard and Porter Squares and Huron Village, 6:45-8:45pm.

Sat, Dec 6. Cutler Park Reservation, Needham. Meet at 10am. 3½ to 4 hour walk in Cutler Park, located in Dedham and Needham.

Sun, Dec 7. Habitat Audubon Sanctuary, Belmont, MA. Slow-paced nature walk through forests and fields and around pond focusing on plant ID and fun and interesting natural history. 9:30am-12:30pm.

Sun, Dec 7. Blue Hills Hike. 7-mile Chickatawbut section hike in the wildest and most remote area of the Blue Hills Reservation, 10am-3pm.

Sun, Dec 7. Marblehead Light and Castle Rock, Marblehead. Approx 4-mi walk from Deveraux Beach to Castle Rock and Marblehead Light followed by optional hot chocolate break.

Sat, Dec 13. Little Blue Hill Nature Hike. 3-mile nature walk in this little-known section of the Blue Hills Reservation to look for signs of birds and animals in winter, 10 am-noon. Joint with Friends of the Blue Hills.

Sat, Dec 13. Wompatuck State Park, Hingham. 8.5 mile hike w/lunch at scenic pond, 9:30am-2:00pm.

Sat, Dec 13. Middlesex Fells, Winchester. 10am-2:30pm. Moderate walk. Bring water/lunch. Meet Wedgmere Station, Winchester.

Sun, Dec 14. Nashua River, Groton. 1:00pm. Walk the scenic trails on the east side of the Nashua River in Groton. The area features a string of conservation areas providing public access to this beautiful waterway. Meet 1:00pm. About 2 hours.

Sat, Dec 20. Blue Hills, Ponkapoag Pond. Brisk paced 4-5 mi around Ponkapoag Pond, 9:30am-noon.

Thurs, Dec 25. Blue Hills Ponkapoag Pond, Canton. Moderate pace 4-mi. hike/snowshoe around pond, 10:00am-12:15pm.

Thurs, Dec 25. Foss Farms, Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge and Greenough Land, Carlisle. Easy approx. 4-5 mi. wander through a good birding area with river and pond views, pine forest and red maple swamp.

Sat, Dec 27. Middlesex Fells, Winchester. Fast-paced hilly 7-mi. hike/snowshoe mostly on Skyline Trail and/or Reservoir Trail (depending on conditions), 9:30am-1:30pm.

Sat, Dec 27. Neponset River Greenway/Milton Hill. 5-mile walk along Neponset River to Hutchinson Field, 9:30am-12:15pm.

Tues, Dec 30. Holiday Lights Walk, Boston. Leisurely 4-mi walk to view holiday lights in Back Bay, South End, Beacon Hill, 6:45pm-9:15pm.