Appalachian Mountain Club Boston Chapter Local Walks/Hikes Committee Local Walks/Hikes for 2018 - 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 2018

Mon, Jan 1. Holiday Hike - Lynn Woods, Lynn. [Cancelled due to expected frigid temperatures] 5 miles, Leader's Choice. 9:00am-1:00pm.

Mon, Jan 1. New Year's Day Hike, Arnold Arboretum, Jamaica Plain. [Cancelled due to expected frigid temperatures] 10.30am - noon hike through stunning tree collection, on and off path, up and down hill.

Fri, Jan 12. Historic Streets of Boston. [Cancelled due to expected heavy rain.] Moderate 5-mi walk to view historic streets of Beacon Hill, Back Bay, and the South End, with a quick food break at the Pru, 6:30pm-9:15pm. Meet along wall abutting Park Street at Park St. T Stop on Boston Common. Walk ends at Boylston Street by Boston Common. Rain/Snow cancels. L Marc Hurwitz.

Sat, Jan 13. Blue Hills Ponkapoag Pond, Canton. Moderate pace 5-mi. hike/snowshoe around pond, 10:30am-2:00pm.

Sun, Jan 21. Joe English Reservation, Amherst, NH. A 7 mile quiet, hilly wander 9:30am-3:30pm through varied woodlands on well maintained trails.

Sun, Jan 21. The Throne, Groton. 1:00pm. Come hike thru one of the largest contiguous undeveloped parcels in the area, featuring mostly upland forest and a variety of wetlands. About 2 hours, moderate pace.

Sun, Jan 21. Hike, Cutler Park Reservation. Meet at 1:00PM. This will be a 2 to 3½ hour walk in Cutler Park, located in Dedham and Needham.

Sat, Jan 27. Grassy Pond Conservation Land, Acton. Slow-paced nature walk through fields and forests to Grassy Pond learning to identify deciduous plants in winter. The walk will focus on plant ID and fun natural history. 1:00pm-4:00pm.

Sat, Jan 27. Blue Hills Hike, Milton. Blue Hills - 5 mile brisk-paced hike along yellow triangle trail with rolling hills, 9:30am-noon.

Sat, Jan 27. Breakheart Reservation, Saugus. Fast-paced, challenging 5-mile hike including rocky peaks and pristine lakes, 11:45am-2:45pm.

February 2018

Sat, Feb 3. Broadmoor Mass Audubon walk, Natick. 10:00am-Noon. Meet at the Visitors Center. Join us for a walk in this convenient (Natick on Route 16), yet expansive wildlife retreat. Moderate pace, easy trails with some gentle hills and rocks. Bring water and snacks. No children or dogs. Severe weather cancels, if snow on the ground, we will snowshoe. Call Lisa if uncertain. Charge: $5 if not a Mass Audubon member, plus $1 if not an AMC member. Click here for: Driving directions. L Lisa Fleischman; CLs Mary Wisbach, Julia Hsia.

Sat, Feb 3. Union Point/Rockland Town Forest. FIRST TIME LISTING – 6-mile hike in newly opened trails at former South Weymouth Naval Air Station continuing across the road to the Rockland Town Forest 9:30am-1:30pm. Bring lunch & water. Meet at Spruce Street parking area in Rockland. From Route 3S, take exit 16B to Route 18 (Main Street-Weymouth) for 2.8 miles, take left on Pond Street (Route 58) for 1.4 miles, take left on Pine Street, right on East Street, left on Spruce Street for about 0.25 miles to parking lot. Bring traction spikes and snow shoes as conditions will warrant use. If parking area is inaccessible, park on the street. Email if severe weather. Ls Mike Tuohey, Beth Mosias.

Sun, Feb 4. Powisett Farm, Dover. Gentle walk, open fields. Snowshoe/walk, thru meadows, 1:00pm-3:00pm.

Sun, Feb 4. Pond Meadow, Braintree. Easy 4-mi. walk/snowshoe. 9:45am-12:00pm.

Fri, Feb 9. Historic Streets of Charlestown. Moderate 5-mi walk including water views, old homes, and new parts of the Harborwalk. 6:30-9:00pm. [cancelled - no turnout]

Sat, Feb 10. Lets Hike Crane Pond Wildlife Management Area, West Newbury/Groveland, MA. Easy hike ~4.5 miles along forest trails that meander around beaver ponds that populate this area of more than 2000 acres that is managed by the Massachusetts Division of Fish and Wildlife.

Sat, Feb 10. Blue Hills/Cunningham Park/Quincy Quarries, Quincy/Milton. Fast-paced and unusual 7-mi. hike connecting three scenic areas with views of the hills and the ocean, 9:45am-1:45pm.

Sun, Feb 11. Fitch's Bridge to Hayes Woods, Groton. 1:00pm. We will cross the scenic Nashua River, hike along a old railroad bed, thru the Johnston Conservation area, around a lovely beaver pond in Hayes Woods, and back.

Sat, Feb 17. Blue Hills Ponkapoag Pond, Canton. Moderate pace 5-mi. hike/snowshoe around pond, 10:30am-2:00pm.

Sun, Feb 18. Spring Hill and Nashoba Brook conservation areas, Acton. Relatively easy hike/snowshoe loop of about 5.5mi through contiguous Spring Hill and Nashoba Brook conservation areas, Acton, MA. 9:30am-1:30pm. [This event may have been cancelled due to snow forecasts.]

Mon, Feb 19. 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-3:00 pm, mainly on Skyline Trail, lunch on Nahanton Hill with great view.

Fri, Feb 23. Beacon Hill/North End, Boston. 4-mi walk including historic streets, secret alleyways, and a visit to a bakery and an Italian market. 6:30-9:15pm. [cancelled due to rain forecast]

Sat, Feb 24. Caryl Park, Noanet Woodlands, Hale Reservation, Dover/Westwood. 9:45am-2:00pm. Fast-paced, beautiful 8-mi. hike through three interconnected areas, including ponds, streams, hills with views.

Sun, Feb 25. Mine Falls Park, Nashua, NH. [Cancelled due to inclement weather forecast] 1:00pm. Hike/snowshoe beautiful Mine Falls. We will follow along streams and meander around a pond, and possibly walk along a canal. Opportunities to view wildlife.

March 2018

Sat, Mar 3. Wompatuck State Park, Hingham. 9.5 mile hike w/lunch at scenic pond, 9:30am-2:00pm. [Hike cancelled due to conditions.]

Sun, Mar 4. Broadmoor Mass Audubon walk, Natick. 10:00am-Noon. Meet at the Visitors Center.

Sat, Mar 10. World's End Reservation, Hingham. 5 mile hike/snowshoe, 9:00am-noon.

Sun, Mar 11. J Harry Rich State Forest, Groton. 1:00pm. This is a flat stroll along a scenic former bend of the Nashua River no longer in the main flow and popular with wildlife, parts of the active Nashua River, and thru typical New England woods.

Sun, Mar 11. Belmont and Audubon Conservation Lands, Belmont. It’s nearly spring and the sap is running. Slow-paced nature walk through Belmont conservation land fields and forests over to Habitat Audubon Sanctuary where we’ll talk about one of the sweetest signs of spring - maple sugaring. The walk will focus on plant ID and fun natural history. 1:00-4:00pm.

Sat, Mar 17. Wompatuck State Park, Hingham. Wear a bit of the green as we hike in a lot of the white on this 9.5 mile snowshoe hike w/lunch at scenic pond, 9:30am-2:00pm.

Sun, Mar 18. Wunnegan Conservation Area, Boxford. 1:00pm-3:00pm. It is easy terrain, moderate pace, will last about 2 hours. Kids and dogs are welcome.

Fri, Mar 23. Beacon Hill/North End, Boston. Leisurely 5-mi walk including historic streets, secret alleyways, and a visit to two bakeries and an Italian food shop. 6:30-9:15pm.

Sat, Mar 24. Fairyland Pond, Walden Pond, Fairhaven Bay, Concord/Lincoln. Brisk 8-mile hike/snowshoe including multiple bodies of water, old-growth forests, and scenic views. 9:45am-2:00pm.

Sun, Mar 25. Mine Falls, Nashua, NH. 6-mile easy walk along Nashua River, canal with 1886 gatehouse, spectacular waterfall in 325-acre park, from 9:45am-2:00pm.

Sat, Mar 31. 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.

April 2018

Sun, Apr 1. Blue Hills Ponkapoag Pond, Canton. Moderate pace 5-mi. hike around pond, 10:30am-2:00pm.

Sat, Apr 7. Castle Island, South Boston. Fast-paced seven-mile scenic walk along ocean to Castle Island, 10:00am-1:30pm.

Sun, Apr 8. Horse Hill Nature Preserve, Merrimac, NH. A 6 mi. forest hike over two prominent hills on well maintained trails Some ledges and steep ascents. 9:30am-2:00pm.

Sun, Apr 8. Medfield Charles River State Reservation, Medfield. 1:00pm-3:00pm. Hike new trails along the Charles River and through former farmland on the 400 acre campus of the abandoned Medfield State Hospital.

Sat, Apr 14. Warner Trail, Cumberland, RI. 9am-4pm. 10-mi. mod. hike from Wampum Corner, Wrentham to Diamond Hill.

Sat, Apr 14. Arlington Hill Walk. 9:45am-2:15pm. Difficult 8-mile training hike up very steep hills, partly for people getting ready for mountain hikes up north with nearly 2,000 total vertical feet planned and scenic views throughout.

Sun, Apr 15. Walden Woods, Wright Forest, Concord. [This event was cancelled due to inclement weather forecast.] Thoreau interpretive path, forest, marshes, vernal pool (frog chorus), Walden Pond upper loop. 10:00am-1:30pm with a snack/lunch stop in the woods.

Mon, Apr 16. Boston Marathon Hike - Forest Hills to Heartbreak Hill. [This event was cancelled due to severe weather forecast.] 21st annual hike, eight miles via Arboretum, Allandale and Hancock Woods, Hammond Pond Park to Heartbreak Hill, 9:00am-12:30pm.

Thurs, Apr 19. Billerica Bay Circuit Presentation, Billerica. The Bay Circuit trail - sometimes named "Bay Secret" trail: A brilliant idea conceived in 1929 as an 'outer emerald necklace' connecting green gems surrounding Boston. Today it is a 230 mile thru-hike, but Billerica is still a gap! Find out why and 'til when, and how trails and land conservation go hand in hand. Unless you've already attended one of these, this (free) multimedia presentation by Alan French, Dan and Marilyn Brielmann is not to be missed. 6:45pm-8:30pm at the Billerica Public Library on 15 Concord Rd.

Sun, Apr 22. Historic Middlesex Canal, Wilmington. Meet at 1:30pm at the Wilmington Town Park across from 760 Main Street (Rte. 38). The Appalachian Mountain Club and the Middlesex Canal Association will host the walk along a section of the historic Middlesex Canal. Points of interest along the route will include the Ox Bow Turn where striations from the tow ropes are embedded in the ledge along the canal, the signs of spring as the trek continues through the 14-acre tract gifted to the MCA by Stanley Webber and his daughter, Julia Ann Fielding, and finally Patches Pond.

Sun, Apr 22. Great Meadows, Concord. 9:00am-Noon. Celebrate Earth Day by joining AMC and participants from other local conservation groups for a moderate paced walk at Great Meadows Wildlife Refuge. The federal Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) supports this and many other conservation areas, but is due to expire in September 2018. While enjoying Great Meadows, learn how you can advocate to permanently reauthorize LWCF and save this critical program. [#SaveLWCF, https://www.outdoors.org/conservation-action-network/land-and-water-conservation-fund] Meet at the parking lot directly across from the Old Manse and North Bridge on Monument Street, north of Concord Center.

Sat, Apr 28. Neponset River Greenway/Mattapan Sq/Milton Hill. 7.5-mile walk along Neponset River to Mattapan Square on newly opened stretch of Neponset Greenway then to Hutchinson Field in Milton 9:30am-2:00pm.

Sat, Apr 28. Arnold Arboretum, Jamaica Plain. 4 mile walk among 5000 kinds of trees & shrubs, 10:00am-12:30pm.

Sun, Apr 29. Groton Traverse. 1:00pm. This hike will feature an impressive variety of environments while traversing a large patchwork of open and conserved lands. We will see beaver ponds, eskers, drumlins, marshes, dry uplands, hemlock groves, open fields, pretty streams, and wide vistas from hilltops. About 2 hours, moderate pace.

Sun, Apr 29. Acton Arboretum, Acton. Slow-paced nature walk in search of a variety of early spring wild flowers and other signs of spring in the meadow, woods and bog of the Acton Arboretum. The walk will focus on plant ID and natural history. 1:00-4:00pm.

May 2018

Sun, May 6. Hale Reservation, Westwood. Level woodland walk, past two lakes, then a short scramble up Powisett Peak and return. 1:00-3:00pm.

Fri, May 11. Historic Streets of Charlestown. Moderate 5-mi walk including water views, old homes, and new parts of the Harborwalk. 6:30-9:15pm.

Sat, May 12. Warner Trail, Wrentham. 9am-4pm. 10-mi. mod. hike from Wampum Corner to Crocker Pond.

Sat, May 12. Crane Beach, Ipswich. Easy pace 5 mile walk, across scenic sand dunes. Beautiful desert landscapes, include pitch pine forest and ocean panoramas. Walking along the ocean beach, caressed by soothing waves, feels really groovy. Walk followed by dinner/social hour at Woodman’s Seafood Restaurant, in nearby Essex, at around 2:00pm.

Sat, May 12. Arnold Arboretum, Jamaica Plain. [cancelled - weather] Scenic, moderate 5-mi. walk with many stops to view plants & trees in bloom. 9:45am-1:15pm.

Sun, May 13. Blue Hills Hike, Milton. Blue Hills - 5 mile brisk-paced hike along yellow triangle trail with rolling hills, 9:30am-noon.

Fri, May 18. Harborwalk Walk in the Seaport District and Fort Point, Boston. Moderate-paced 5-mi. walk on waterside walkways of Boston/South Boston including new parklands and spectacular views throughout, 6:30-9:15pm.

Sat, May 19. Blue Hills Bird Walk, Quincy. 7:30am-11:00am. Beginner's bird walk 3 miles through the Fowl Meadow and along the Neponset River. 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. Bring your binoculars and a bird book if you have one. Joint with Friends of the Blue Hills.

Sat, May 19. Middlesex Fells, Stoneham. [This event cancelled due to forecast of rain during scheduled time of hike.] Fast-paced 6.5-mi. hike including lesser-traveled hills, an old-growth hemlock forest, and several ponds, 11:30am-2:45pm.

Sun, May 20. Beaver Brook Assoc., Hollis, NH. 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.

Sun, May 20. Rocky Hill Sanctuary and adjoining woodlands, Groton. 1:00pm. This is a great area to hike around in, with a beautiful point on Long Pond, beaver marshes, a heron rookerie, and more. About 2 hours, moderate pace.

Sun, May 20. Grassy Pond Conservation Land, Acton. Slow-paced nature walk through fields and forests to Grassy Pond and the bog boardwalk looking for spring wildflowers The walk will focus on plant ID and fun natural history. 1:00-4:00pm. Co-listed under “Family Outings”.

Sat, May 26. Warner Trail, Sharon. 9am-5pm. 13-mi. mod. hike from Edge Hill Rd. in Sharon to High Rock in Foxboro.

Sat, May 26. Blue Hills Wildflower Hike, Quincy. 10:00am-3:00pm. 7-mile hike in the eastern section of the Blue Hills Reservation viewing wildflowers and climbing scenic hills, some steep. Joint with Friends of the Blue Hills.

Sat, May 26. Parks & Greenways, Quincy. 7-mile walk w/beach, woods, salt marshes, historic sites, 10:00am-2:30pm.

Sat, May 26. Let's Hike Cleveland Farm State Forest, Boxford/Rowley. 1:00pm-4:00pm. We'll hike about 4 miles along a section of the Bay Circuit Trail following trails that meander along eskers that are reminders of the last glacier that covered New England. Experience a relatively deep forest populated with oak, hickory, beech, hemlock, witch hazel and white pine. Occasionally, we may moderate our pace to enjoy the natural world of this splendid forest. If that's not enough to pique your interest, how about the chance to stand in 3 towns simultaneously?

Mon, May 28. Blue Hills, Ponkapoag Pond. 4 mi. mod.-paced hike, 10:30am-1:30pm.

June 2018

Fri, June 1. Historic Streets of Cambridge. Leisurely 4-mi. walk along historic streets around Harvard and Porter Squares, Avon Hill, and Huron Village, 6:45-9:15pm.

Sat, June 2. Middlesex Fells, Stoneham. Fast-paced 7-mi. hike including lesser-traveled hills, an old-growth hemlock forest, and several ponds, 9:45am-1:45pm.

Sun, June 3. Trek to Town Forest, Groton. 1:00pm. Join us for a Traverse from a beautiful beaver pond, along a pretty trail past meadows, farm fields, thru woods, and into the Town Forest.

Sat, June 9. Wellesley Wander. 6-mile loop trail including Wellesley College campus, Lake Waban, Charles River, brooks and aqueducts. 9:45am-1:30pm.

Sun, June 10. Noanet Woodlands, Dover. Approx. 7 mi. hike with ponds and views. 9am-1pm.

Sun, June 10. Broadmoor Mass Audubon walk, Natick. 4pm-6pm. Meet at the Visitors Center. Finish your weekend with a lovely walk in this convenient (on Route 16), yet expansive wildlife retreat. Moderate pace, easy trails with some gentle hills and rocks.

Sat, June 16. Walden Pond, Concord. Easy pace 5 mile walk, across grassy meadows and through hemlock forest, to scenic Walden Pond. Visit a cove inhabited by Henry Thoreau, during the mid-1800’s. We will walk upon the woodland footpaths, where the transcendentalist contemplated life, on his early morning wanderings. Walk followed by dinner/social hour at China Ruby Restaurant, in nearby Maynard.

Sat, June 16. Walk with Thoreau in Billerica. 9:45am-1:00pm. Join a guided walk to explore extant portions of the Historic Middlesex Canal, reading passages from Henry David Thoreau describing the towpath, from the 'Billerica Falls to Middlesex Village' in his 'A Week on the Concord and Merrimack Rivers'. It is a three hour easy walk. Knee high boots recommended! Focus: Camaraderie and local history.

Sat, June 16. 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-3:00 pm, mainly on Skyline Trail, lunch on Nahanton Hill with great view.

Sun, June 17. Horn Pond Conservation Land, Woburn. Slow-paced nature walk looking for late spring wildflowers. The walk will focus on plant ID and fun natural history. 1:00-4:00pm.

Sun, June 17. Wollaston Beach, Quincy. Fast-paced 7-mi walk along Wollaston Beach, Marina Bay, 9:00am-noon.

Sat, June 23. Boston's Developing Waterfront. [Note: There is a good chance this may be cancelled or postponed due to rainy/raw conditions. Please contact Leader for update.] Moderately paced walk. Explore Ft. Point Channel, Marine Industrial Park, Seaport District, Rowe's Wharf, Rose Kennedy Greenway. 10:00am-2:00pm.

Sat, June 23. Lynn Woods, Lynn. 5 miles, Leader's Choice. 9:00am-1:00pm. Bring lunch, H2O, and snacks.

Sat, June 23. Breakheart Reservation, Saugus. Fast-paced, challenging 6-mile hike including rocky peaks and pristine lakes, 9:30am-1:00pm.

Fri, June 29. Thompson Island Sandbar Sunset Walk. Unusual 4-mile walk with spectacular views along sandbar at low tide to the southern edge of one of the Boston Harbor Islands, 6:45pm-9:00pm.

Sat, June 30. Cutler Park Reservation, Needham. 9am-11am. Join us for a walk in this local gem, conveniently located directly off of Route 128. As you walk the trails, you will not believe that you are so close to the highway. Highlights include Kendrick Pond, views of the Charles River, and the boardwalk crossing a marshland. Easy trails, minor ups and downs, with some roots and rocks, moderate pace.

July 2018

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

Thurs, July 5. Middlesex Fells, Winchester. Sheepfold Pkg. lot. Mod to stren. 7 mi. hike over many hills & rough terrain. 9am-2pm.

Thurs, July 5. East Boston Greenway/Piers Park/Harborwalk/Marine Arts Sculpture Park. 5:30pm. 2 hour walk, some history, good harbor views. Option for harborside Downeast Cider Co. visit and picnic table dinner at KO Australian bistro ~8:00pm.

Sat, July 7. Pope John Paul 2 Park to Squantum Point Park Dorchester/Quincy. 7-mile walk from Pope John Paul II Park, along Boston Harborwalk, across bridge to Quincy Riverwalk to Squantum Point Park and back, 9:30am-12:45 pm.

Sun, July 8. Lynn Woods, Lynn. 5 miles, Leader's Choice. 9:00am-1:00pm.

Sun, July 8. Nagog Pond (Acton)/Sarah Doublet (Littleton). 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.

Fri, July 13. Breakheart Reservation Sunset Hike, Wakefield/Saugus. Moderate 4-mile hike including Pearce Lake, Eagle Rock, Castle Rock, and dinner/sunset from the little-known Crow Hill with 360-degree views, 6:30pm-8:45pm.

Sat, July 14. Blue Hills Reservation, Canton. Fast-paced, difficult 7-mi. hike to various summits and overlooks with great views throughout--and possibly blueberry picking around lunchtime, 9:45am-1:45pm.

Sat, July 21. Walk from Revere Beach to Copley Square, Boston. This 12+ mile walk (with shorter options) has it all - ocean, marsh, beach, harbor, river, and ethnic, downtown neighborhoods. It starts with a visit to the annual Sand Sculpting Contest, passes through East Boston including a lunch stop, the Boston Waterfront, the edges of Charlestown and Cambridge, the Boston Esplanade and the Commonwealth Mall, ending at the Boston Marathon finish line. Enjoy a summer day of walking, and celebrate completion of the route at the Solis Irish pub. This route was enjoyed last summer with FreeWalkers. Meet at 8:30am at the Wonderland Station (MBTA Blue Line) on the upper level plaza that overlooks Revere Beach. NOTE: If you do not want to complete the entire 12+ miles, there are many MBTA stops along the route that make it easy to exit the walk.

Sat, July 21. Walden Pond, Concord. Easy pace 5 mile walk, across grassy meadows and through hemlock forest, to scenic Walden Pond. Visit a cove inhabited by Henry Thoreau, during the mid-1800’s. We will walk upon the woodland footpaths, where the transcendentalist contemplated life, on his early morning wanderings. Walk followed by dinner/social hour at China Ruby Restaurant, in nearby Maynard, at around 2:00pm. Meet 11:00am, at Lincoln Train Station commuter parking lot.

Sat, July 21. Boston's Back Bay Fens. View museums and cultural institutions; explore the Rose Garden and Victory Gardens. From 10:00am-2:00pm.

Sat, July 28. Middlesex Fells, Medford. Mid-summer is here. Slow-paced nature walk looking for mid-summer wildflowers and fruits in the Bellevue Pond area. The walk will focus on plant ID and fun and interesting natural history. 9:00am-12:00 noon.

Sat, July 28. Horn Pond and Rag Rock/Mount Mianomo, Woburn. Hilly, fast-paced 6-mile hike including water views and two "mountains" with sweeping vistas, 11:30am-2:45pm.

Sun, July 29. The Throne, Groton. 1:00pm. Come hike thru one of the largest contiguous undeveloped parcels in the area, featuring pretty upland forest intersperced with vernal pools, small streams, and beaver ponds. About 2 hours, moderate pace.

August 2018

Sun, Aug 5. Breakheart Reservation, Wakefield Entrance. Moderate to Strenuous hike. 6 mi. 9am-1pm.

Sun, Aug 5. 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. 9:45am.

Fri, Aug 10. Harborwalk and North End, Boston. Leisurely 4-mile walk along waterfront of downtown Boston and through hidden streets and alleyways of North End, including stops at Italian food shops, 6:30-9:15pm.

Sat, Aug 11. Boston's South End. 10:00am-2:00pm. New York Streets neighborhood, Harrison-Albany corridor, parks, gardens, and shady streets. Meet at Broadway T (Red Line) near escalator and map; return Back Bay T (Orange Line).

Sat, Aug 11. Wompatuck State Park, Hingham. [cancelled due to weather forecast] 9.5 mile hike w/lunch at scenic pond, 9:30am-2:00pm.

Sat, Aug 18. Blue Hills, Ponkapoag Pond. 4 mi. beat-the-heat hike, 7:00am-9:00am.

Sat, Aug 18. Walden Pond, Concord. Easy pace 5 mile walk, across grassy meadows and through hemlock forest, to scenic Walden Pond.

Sat, Aug 18. Wompatuck State Park, Hingham. Re-scheduled from August 11 - 9.5 mile hike w/lunch at scenic pond, 9:30am-2:00pm.

Sat, Aug 25. Rock Meadow Conservation Land, Belmont. Slow-paced nature walk through fields and forests to enjoy nature in summer. The walk will focus on plant ID and fun natural history. 9:00am-12:00pm.

Wed, Aug 29. Audubon Habitat Education Center & Wildlife Sanctuary, Belmont. 5:30-7:15pm. End your day with a lovely nature walk right in Belmont, MA, brought to you by the AMC Boston Chapter Conservation and Local Walks and Hikes Committees. The walk will focus on plant identification and fun and interesting natural history.

September 2018

Sat, Sept 1. 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.

Mon, Sept 3. World's End Reservation, Hingham. 5 mile walk, 8:30am-11:30am.

Fri, Sept 7. Historic Streets of Boston. Moderate 5-mi walk to view historic streets of Beacon Hill, Back Bay, and the South End, with a quick food break at the Pru, 6:30pm-9:15pm.

Sat, Sept 8. Fairyland Pond, Walden Pond, Fairhaven Bay, Concord/Lincoln. Fast-paced 8-mile hike including multiple bodies of water, old-growth forests, and scenic views. 9:45am-2:00pm.

Sat, Sept 8. Blue Hills Hike, Milton. Blue Hills - 5 mile brisk-paced hike along yellow triangle trail with rolling hills, 9:30am-noon.

Sun, Sept 9. Arlington’s Great Meadows, Lexington MA. 1:00pm-4:00pm. September is a wonderful season in New England: plants are weighed down with fruits; leaves are ablaze with colors; days are warm and nights are cool. Come celebrate the season with a nature walk in Arlington’s Great Meadows. We’ll explore several different habitats during our journey: a pond, the pond edge, an upland forest, a field edge and a wet meadow. We will focus on plant ID as well as fun and interesting natural history about the plants we see, and learn why Arlington’s Great Meadows is in Lexington.

Sun, Sept 9. Breakheart Reservation, Wakefield Entrance. Moderate to Strenuous hike. 6 mi. 9am-1pm. Bring lunch/water/snacks.

Sun, Sept 9. Joe English Reservation (Peabody Mill Environmental Center), Amherst, NH. A 7 mile quiet, hilly wander 9:30am-3:30pm through varied woodlands on well maintained trails.

Sat, Sept 15. Crane Beach, Ipswich. Easy pace 5 mile walk, across scenic sand dunes, and along the ocean beach. Beautiful desert landscapes, include pitch pine forest, views of Essex Bay, and sea birds. Walk followed by dinner/social hour at Woodman’s Seafood Restaurant, in nearby Essex.

Sat, Sept 15. 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, Sept 22. Fabulous Fall in Groton, part 1, Sorhaug Woods. 1:00pm. Experience the exceptionally rich ecological diversity of this area by hiking thru pretty woods, past beaver ponds, and over scenic vistas. This hike is jointly sponsored by the Groton Trails Committee and the AMC.

Sat, Sept 22. Union Point/Rockland Town Forest. 6-mile hike in newly opened trails at former South Weymouth Naval Air Station continuing across the road to the Rockland Town Forest 9:30am-1:00pm.

Sun, Sept 23. Wildcat Conservation Area, Boxford. 1:30pm. It will be about 2 hours with easy terrain and moderate pace. Kids and dogs are welcome.

Sun, Sept 23. 5th Annual Duxbury Beach Walk. 10:00am-2:00pm. Fall has begun and the crowds are gone. It is a perfect time to join us for a walk to the end of Duxbury Beach and have lunch at the Gurnet Point Lighthouse.

Sat, Sept 29. Fabulous Fall in Groton, part 2, J H Rich Forest. 1:00pm. Come hike along the edge of an old channel of the Nashua River, with its abundant wildlife. Along the way, enjoy the scenic woods and be introduced to the Nashua River Rail Trail. This hike is jointly sponsored by the Groton Trails Committee and the AMC.

Sat, Sept 29. Hough's Neck, Quincy. Unusual, fast-paced 6-mile hike partly along proposed Sea to Summit Greenway, including salt marshes, a long path along a dike, hidden ocean beaches, and a former Boston Harbor island, all with spectacular views, 9:45am-1:00pm.

October 2018

Sat, Oct 6. Fabulous Fall in Groton, part 3, Town Forest. 1:00pm. Come explore this local gem with varied woods, the Nashua and Squannacook rivers, and its high concentration of glacial topography, including eskers and kettle holes. This area also features several bogs, which are unusual at this latitude. Moderate pace, about 2 hours. This hike is jointly sponsored by the Groton Trails Committee and the AMC.

Mon, Oct 8. Blue Hills Ponkapoag Pond, Canton. 4 mi. mod.-paced hike, 10:30am-1:30pm.

Fri, Oct 12. Historic Streets of Cambridge. Leisurely 4-mi. walk along historic streets around Harvard and Porter Squares, Avon Hill, and Huron Village, 6:45-9:15pm.

Sat, Oct 13. Northern Lynn Woods, Lynn. [CANCELLED] Challenging 6-mi. hike through rugged terrain including cliffs and ledges with scenic views throughout, 9:45am-1:30pm.

Sat, Oct 13. Fabulous Fall in Groton, part 4, The Esker Trail. 1:00pm. Come see New England woods at their best. This hike features beaver ponds, the scenic Cow Pond Brook, glacial topography, and all around pretty woods and beautiful settings. Moderate pace, about 2 hours. This hike is jointly sponsored by the Groton Trails Committee and the AMC.

Sat, Oct 13. Warner Trail Fall Hike, Wrentham. 9:00am-4:00pm. 10-mi. mod. hike from Wampum Corner to Crocker Pond.

Sun, Oct 14. North Pack Monadnock (Ted’s & Carolyn’s loop), Greenfield, NH. A rugged, scenic loop of 6.5mi. via Ted's & Carolyn's trails. 9:30am-2:30pm.

Sun, Oct 14. Grassy Pond Conservation Land, Acton, MA. Slow-paced nature walk through fields and forests to Grassy Pond looking for autumn wildflowers and fruits as well as winter weeds. We may also see some witches and skeletons preparing for Halloween. The walk will focus on plant ID and fun natural history. 1:00pm-4:00pm.

Sun, Oct 14. Historic Middlesex Canal, Woburn. Level, 3-mi., joint w/Middlesex Canal Association along 2 sections of the historic canal. Info: www.middlesexcanal.org.

Sat, Oct 20. Fabulous Fall in Groton, part 5, Sabine Woods. 1:00pm. Don't miss the season finale of our Fabulous Fall series. We will hike along the banks of a protected stretch of the Nashua River, and loop back thru New England woods in their fall splendor. This hike is jointly sponsored by the Groton Trails Committee and the AMC.

Sat, Oct 20. Plymouth Harbor. Brisk pace 7 mile walk 9:30am-2:00pm along Plymouth Harbor including Jennie's Grist Mill and Historic Monuments. Lunch stop on the walk back at Lobster Hut (counter service).

Sun, Oct 21. Stony Brook South, Lincoln. 2 hr. hike through woods and along a chain of ponds and streams.

Sat, Oct 27. Walden Pond, Concord. Easy pace 5 mile walk, across grassy meadows and through hemlock forest, to scenic Walden Pond. - cancelled due to rain

November 2018

Sat, Nov 3. Boston's Developing Waterfront. Moderately paced walk. Explore Ft. Point Channel, Marine Industrial Park, Seaport District, Rowe's Wharf, Rose Kennedy Greenway. 10:00am-2:00pm. - did not take place due to rain at scheduled time

Sun, Nov 4. Castle Island, South Boston. Fast-paced seven-mile scenic walk along ocean to Castle Island, 10:00am-1:30pm.

Sun, Nov 4. Flat Rock Audubon, Fitchburg, MA. Mod/easy 6 mile hilly ramble through varied woodlands, reservoirs & archeological dig. 9:30am-3:00pm.

Sun, Nov 4. Middlesex Fells, Winchester. Slow-paced nature walk past a small meadow, through forested uplands, along a pond and up to a fell . . . and what is a fell anyway? The walk will focus on late blooming flowers, fruits and winter weeds. We’ll also talk about interesting and fun natural history. 9:00am-12:00noon.

Fri, Nov 9. Beacon Hill/North End, Boston. [Cancelled due to rain forecast] Leisurely 4-mi walk including historic streets, secret alleyways, and a visit to a bakery and an Italian food shop. 6:30-9:15pm.

Sat, Nov 10. Lincoln Conservation Land Foliage Hike, Lincoln. Fast paced, very scenic 8-mile hike to lesser-known areas, including Chapman Pasture, Pigeon Hill, Browning Fields, and Beaver Pond, 9:30am-2:00pm.

Sat, Nov 10. Glacial Features Walks, Sudbury. 9:30am-12:00pm. Join glaciologist/geophysicist Bruce Porter for a walk through Gray Reservation/Haynes Meadow Reservation/Water District protection zone to explore the many features formed by the glacier that blanketed New England 10,000 yrs. ago. Kettles pit the plane and kame terraces rise abruptly to create beautiful vistas of the wetlands below. Be able to identify eskers, erratics, kames, and more on your next hike.

Sat, Nov 17. Crane Beach, Ipswich. Easy pace 5 mile walk, across scenic sand dunes, and along ocean beach. Beautiful desert landscapes, include pitch pine forest, views of Essex Bay, and sea birds. Walk followed by dinner/social hour at Woodman's Seafood Restaurant, in nearby Essex, at around 2:00pm.

Thurs, Nov 22. Holiday Hike - Lynn Woods, Lynn. 5 miles, Leader's Choice. 9:00am-1:00pm.

Fri, Nov 23. Blue Hills Ponkapoag Pond, Canton. 4 mi. mod.-paced hike, 10:30am-1:30pm.

Fri, Nov 23. Annual Ayer/Groton Hills walk. 10:00am-3:00pm. Get far away from shopping malls on Black Friday and join the longest continually running hike in the AMC. We'll explore the natural areas between the Nashua River and the Snake Hills. Exact route determined on the fly. Some bushwhacking possible. Around 7 mi., 5 hours.

Sat, Nov 24. Emerald Necklace, Jamaica Pond and Jamaica Plain. 10:00am-2:00pm. Meet at Longwood T (Green Line D) return Heath St. T (Green Line E). [Cancelled due to injury]

Sat, Nov 24. 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, Nov 25. Middlesex Fells Skyline Trail Loop, Medford. 9:00am-4:00pm (or sooner). Approx. 8 mile hike on the Middlesex Fells Skyline Trail. [Cancelled due to expected rain]

Sun, Nov 25. Blue Hills, Milton. Fast-paced, moderate 6-mi. hike on scenic trails to Great Blue Hill, Chestnut Run stream, and Hemenway Hill, 9:30am-12:45pm.

December 2018

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

Sat, Dec 1. Webb Memorial State Park and Great Hill Park, North Weymouth. Brisk pace 6 mile scenic walk with views of Grape Island, Slate Island, Quincy Bay, Fore River, Hingham Back River, Boston's Harbor and skyline. 9:30am-12:00pm.

Fri, Dec 7. Beacon Hill/North End, Boston. Leisurely 4-mi walk including historic streets, secret alleyways, and a visit to a bakery and an Italian food shop. 6:30-9:15pm.

Sat, Dec 8. Holiday Wreaths & Green Boughs, Boston. Admire seasonal decorations in Boston's Back Bay & Beacon Hill. 9:30am-11:30am.

Sat, Dec 8. Breakheart Reservation, Saugus. Fast-paced, challenging 6-mile hike including rocky hills, pristine lakes, and a "new" peak with sweeping views, 9:30am-1:00pm.

Sun, Dec 9. Burrage Pond, Hanson. 5-mile hike, 10:00am-12:15pm on abandoned cranberry bog, sandy trails featuring open water and marshland.

Sat, Dec 15. Walden Pond, Concord. Moderate pace 5 mile walk, across grassy meadows and through hemlock forest, to scenic Walden Pond. Visit a cove, once inhabited by Henry Thoreau. Enjoy sit-down break, on the shore of Walden. Walk followed by dinner/social hour at China Ruby Restaurant, in nearby Maynard, at around 2:00pm.

Sun, Dec 16. Habitat Audubon Sanctuary, Belmont - Celebrate the Solstice Walk. The Winter Solstice arrives in just 5 days. We’ll take a slow-paced nature walk through forests and fields and around a pond focusing on plant ID of bare trees, naked shrubs and winter weeds as the natural world prepares for winter. We’ll also talk about fun and interesting natural history about the Winter Solstice as well as about the plants we see. 1:00-4:00pm.

Sat, Dec 22. Cutler Park Reservation, Needham. 10am-Noon. Join us for walk in this local gem, conveniently located directly off of Route 128. As you walk the trails, you will not believe that you are so close to the highway. Highlights include Kendrick Pond, views of the Charles River, and the boardwalk crossing a marshland. Easy trails, minor ups and downs, with some roots and rocks, moderate pace. Directions: 84 Kendrick St, Needham, MA.

Sat, Dec 22. Hale Reservation, Westwood/Dover. Fast-paced 8-mi. hike including ponds, cabins, lodges, 9:30am-2:00pm.

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

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

Tues, Dec 25. Holiday Hike - Lynn Woods, Lynn. 5 miles, Leader's Choice. 9:00am-1:00pm.

Sat, Dec 29. Neponset River Greenway/Mattapan Sq/Milton Hill. 7.5-mile fast-paced walk along Neponset River to Mattapan Square on Neponset Greenway then to Hutchinson Field in Milton 9:30am-2:00pm.