Appalachian Mountain Club Boston Chapter Local Walks/Hikes Committee Local Walks/Hikes for 2019 - 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 2019

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

Sat, Jan 12. Blue Hills, Milton. Fast-paced, challenging 6-mi. hike that features a number of "points of interest" in the Central Blue Hills including streams, ponds, cliffs, and open peaks such as Buck Hill, 9:30am-1:45pm.

Sun, Jan 13. Nagog Pond, Acton MA and Sarah Doublet, Littleton, MA. 9:30am-2:30pm. Meet at Grassy Hill parking lot off Nagog Hill Rd, Acton. 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.

Sat, Jan 19. Blue Hills Hike, Milton. Blue Hills - 5 mile brisk-paced hike along yellow triangle trail with rolling hills, 9:30am-noon.

Mon, Jan 21. Blue Hills Ponkapoag Pond, Canton. [cancelled due to severe cold] Moderate pace 5-mi. hike/snowshoe around pond, 10:30am-2:00pm.

Sat, Jan 26. Middlesex Fells, Malden. 6-mile, fast-paced 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, Jan 27. Duck Pond and Groton Woods, Groton. 1:00pm. We'll walk along the shore of a pretty pond and thru typical New England woods in several conservation areas. About 2 hours, moderate pace.

February 2019

Sat, Feb 2. Coastal Neighborhood walk on scenic Great Neck, Ipswich. Enjoy ocean views at high tide, walking on public streets and beach. Wear sturdy shoes, and be prepared to walk around a little ice on one of the hills. Hilly, but views are worth it. Optional hot chocolate at leader's house near end optional.

Sun, Feb 3. Pond Meadow, Braintree. Easy/moderate 4-mi. walk/snowshoe. 9:45am-12:00pm.

Sun, Feb 10. Bedford, Burlington & Lexington Municipal & Conservation Lands, MA. Very hilly 6-mi. wander through various conservation & municipal lands. 9:45am-2:30pm.

Sun, Feb 17. McLains Woods, Groton. 1:00pm. We'll enjoy the scenery of woods, vernal pools, and beaver ponds on this loop thru a large area of conservation land. About 2 hours, moderate pace.

Mon, Feb 18. Blue Hills Ponkapoag Pond, Canton. [cancelled due to weather conditions] Moderate pace 5-mi. hike/snowshoe around pond, 10:30am-2:00pm.

Sat, Feb 23. Wompatuck State Park, Hingham. 9.5 mile fast-paced hike w/lunch at scenic pond, 9:30am-2:00pm.

March 2019

Fri, Mar 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, Mar 2. Blue Hills Ponkapoag Pond, Canton. Moderate 6-mi. hike to pond, campsite, duck pool, hidden boardwalk through bog, and more, 9:30am-1:45pm. Bring lunch, water, poles, and traction devices if icy. From Rte. 93/128 exit 2A, take Rte. 138 S 0.7 mi. to Ponkapoag Golf Course lot on L. Rain/snow cancels. No dogs; non-AMC members $1. L Marc Hurwitz. [Cancelled - snow]

Sun, Mar 10. Northeast Groton. 1:00pm. Explore a large protected area in the Groton/Westford/Tyngsboro corner. We'll see varied environments from beaver ponds to meadows to upland forest, and an old quarry. About 2 hours, moderate pace.

Sat, Mar 16. World's End Reservation, Hingham. 5 mile hike/snowshoe, 9:00am-noon.

Sun, Mar 17. Fresh Pond and Mount Auburn Cemetery, Cambridge. Walk around Fresh Pond and wander through Mount Auburn Cemetery in scenic Cambridge, MA. Total distance should be approx. 4-5 miles.

Fri, Mar 22. Harborwalk Walk, Boston. Moderate-paced 5-mi. walk. Leader's choice depending on the weather but could include the Seaport District, Fort Point, and/or the North End, 6:30-9:15pm.

Sat, Mar 23. 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.

Sat, Mar 23. 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, Mar 24. Flat Rock Audubon, Fitchburg, MA. Mod/easy 6 mile hilly ramble through varied woodlands, reservoirs & archeological dig. 9:30am-3:00pm.

Sun, Mar 24. Middlesex Canal, Winchester/Medford. 3-mi. level history walk will follow the route of the Middlesex Canal through parts of Medford and Winchester. Sites along the way include the aqueduct and mooring basin, those segments of the canal bed and berm visible off the parkway, and the stone wall of the Governor Brooks estate, in Medford.

Sun, Mar 24. Middlesex Fells, Winchester. Sheepfold Pkg. lot. Mod to stren. 7 mi. hike over many hills & rough terrain. 9am-2pm.

Sat, Mar 30. Blue Hills Ponkapoag Pond, Canton. Moderate 6-mi. hike to pond, campsite, duck pool, hidden boardwalk through bog, and more, 9:30am-1:45pm.

April 2019

Sat, Apr 6. Middlesex Fells - Medford. Difficult 6-mile hike on steep terrain with spectacular views from the High Fells Reservoir, Black Rock, Pinnacle Rock, and more, 10:45am-2:15pm.

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

Mon, Apr 8. Boston Chapter Local Walks & Hikes Committee meeting. Boston Chapter Local Walks & Hikes Committee meeting 6:30-9pm in Cambridge. All welcome.

Sat, Apr 13. Castle Island, South Boston. Fast-paced seven-mile scenic walk along ocean to Castle Island, 10:00am-1:30pm.

Sat, Apr 13. Georgetown Rowley State Forest. Georgetown Rowley State Forest. Dogs and kids are welcome. Hike about 3 miles, easy terrain, moderate pace.

Sun, Apr 14. 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, Apr 14. Lynn Woods Reservation. Mod to Stren. 6 mi., 9am-1pm. Leaders choice.

Sun, Apr 14. Hale Reservation, Westwood. Easy walk, mostly woods, across a dam & thru a meadow, 1:00-3:00pm.

Fri, Apr 19. Historic Streets of Charlestown. Moderate 5-mi walk including water views, old homes, and new parts of the Harborwalk. 6:30-9:15pm.

Sat, Apr 20. Middlesex Fells, Malden. [Cancelled due to rain] Difficult 5-mile hike on steep terrain with spectacular views from the High Fells Reservoir, Black Rock, and Pinnacle Rock, and including the hidden MIT Observatory site, 11:45am - 2:45pm.

Sat, Apr 20. Crane Beach, Ipswich. Moderate 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, Apr 20. 2nd Annual Earth Day Walk, Hemlock Gorge Reservation, Newton/Needham. Meet in the parking lot of 381 Elliot Street, Newton. Please arrive by 9:15am for a prompt 9:30am start. This year, in addition to partnering with the Boston Chapter Conservation Committee, the Southeastern Massachusetts Chapter will be leading along with us. Join us as we explore the geology and history of the Hemlock Gorge Reservation on a slow-paced, interpretive two-mile walk. Included in the trip will be the historic "Echo Bridge" (built in 1876), which is on the National Register of Historic Places. It's a sight (and with sounds) to behold! We'll cover all of the interior trails, as well as those along the Charles River, which created the Gorge over many thousands of years, visit three dams and see old mills still standing on the property.

Sun, Apr 21. Blue Hills Ponkapoag Pond, Canton. Moderate pace 5-mi. hike around pond, 10:30am-1:30pm.

Sat, Apr 27. Warner Trail, Cumberland, RI. 9am-4pm. 10-mi. mod. hike from Wampum Corner, Wrentham to Diamond Hill. 74rd season.

Sat, Apr 27. West Quincy Quarries & Granite Railway. 5.5-mile fast-paced hike to Granite Railway & quarries, some rock scrambling, bushwhacking and steep sections, 10:30am-2:30pm.

Sun, Apr 28. Webb Memorial State Park and Great Hill Park, North Weymouth. Moderate pace 5 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.

May 2019

Sat, May 4. Ponkapoag Pond, Canton. Moderate pace 4 mile walk, around scenic Ponkapoag Pond, with visit to AMC Camp. Pleasant stroll across golf course, on maple tree walkway. Enjoy sit-down break, on the dock at AMC Camp. Walk followed by dinner/social hour at The Lodge Bar & Grill, in nearby Randolph, at around 2:00pm.

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

Sat, May 4. Let's Hike Meadow Pond Reservation and Hampshire Woods in Groveland/Georgetown MA. We'll hike Meadow Pond Reservation and Hampshire Woods. This area is also known as "Turtleland" as it provides excellent habitat for some rare turtles as well as salamanders. Meet at 12:00pm at the Meadow Pond Conservation Area parking area on Uptake Rd in Groveland MA. The hike will last about 3 hours, and plan to hike about 4 miles along woodland trails while listening for Spring Peepers, harbingers of Spring, from vernal pools that are sprinkled throughout this conservation area. Bird migration is well underway and many spring ephemeral flowers are blooming such as yellow marsh marigold and trilliums.

Sat, May 11. Arnold Arboretum, Jamaica Plain. Scenic, moderate 5-mi. walk with many stops to view plants & trees in bloom. 9:45am-1:30pm.

Sun, May 12. Blue Hills Hike, Milton. [Cancelled - Rain] Blue Hills - 5 mile brisk-paced hike along yellow triangle trail with rolling hills, 9:00am-noon. Meet at Houghton's Pond parking lot. From Rte. 93/128 exit 3 (Houghtons/Ponkapoag), go N 0.5 mi. to stop sign, R on Hillside St. 0.2 mi. to Houghtons Pond lot on R. Bring lunch and water. Storm cancels. Leader: Beth Mosias

Fri, May 17. Castle Island, South Boston. Leisurely 4-mi. sunset walk along harbor, 6:45-8:45pm.

Sat, May 18. Crane Beach, Ipswich. Moderate 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, at around 2:00pm.

Sat, May 18. Broadmoor (Natick) Mass Audubon walk. 9:30am to 12:30pm. Start your Saturday 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, May 18. Lets Hike Crane Pond Wildlife Management Area, West Newbury and Groveland. 12:00pm-3:00pm. We'll hike a section of Crane Pond Wildlife Management Area located in West Newbury and Groveland.

Sun, May 19. The General Field and Surrenden Farms, Groton. 1:00pm. Come see this unusual conservation area with large open-field habitat and great views to the south and west. We'll also duck into woods for a bit and stroll along the beautiful Nashua River with conservation land on both sides. About 2 hours, moderate pace.

Sat, May 25. Neponset River Greenway/Mattapan Sq/Milton Hill. 7.5-mile fast-paced walk along Neponset River to Mattapan Square on newly opened stretch of Neponset Greenway then to Hutchinson Field in Milton 9:30am-2:00pm.

Sun, May 26. Medfield Charles River State Reservation, Medfield. 1:00pm-3:00pm. Easy walk, Medfield State Hospital grounds; open meadows, woodland trails along Charles River.

Mon, May 27. Blue Hills, Ponkapoag Pond. 4 mi. mod.-paced hike, 10:30am-1:30pm.

Fri, May 31. 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.

June 2019

Sat, June 1. Warner Trail, Sharon. 9am-5pm. 13-mi. mod. hike from Edge Hill Rd. in Sharon to High Rock in Foxboro.

Sat, June 1. Lincoln/Concord Conservation Lands. Fast-paced 8-mi. hike to such beautiful places as Fairhaven Bay, Heywood's Meadow, and Walden Pond, including alpaca sightings and a stop at a hidden farm store, 9:45am-2:00pm.

Sun, June 2. Middlesex Fells 125th Celebration. Please join us in celebrating the 125th anniversary of the creation of the Middlesex Fells on Sunday, June 2nd from 1:00-4:00pm for a historical hike. Easy-to-moderate 4 mile round trip to Wright's Tower.

Sat, June 8. Hemlock Gorge Reservation, Newton/Needham. Geologist, Les Tyrala will be our special guest speaker. Join us as we explore the geology and history of the Hemlock Gorge Reservation on a slow-paced, interpretive two-mile walk.

Sat, June 8. Parks & Greenways, Quincy. 7-mile fast-paced walk w/beach, woods, salt marshes, historic sites including Dorothy Quincy house, Peacefield & Crane Library, 10:00am-2:30pm.

Sat, June 8. Horn Pond, Woburn. Challenging 5-mile hike including deep woods, water views, and at least one "mountain" with sweeping vistas, 11:30am-2:30pm.

Mon, June 10. Boston Chapter Local Walks/Hikes Committee meeting. Boston Chapter Local Walks & Hikes Committee meeting Monday, June 10 from 6:30-9pm in Cambridge. If you are interested in learning more about our committee and helping out, contact Committee Chair, Lisa Fleischman at localwalks@amcboston.org.

Sat, June 15. Boston's Back Bay Fens. Museums, educational and cultural institution; explore the Rose Garden, Victory Gardens and Japanese Garden. From 10:00am-2:00pm.

Sat, June 15. Middlesex Fells Multi-Pond Hike, Medford. Fast-paced and somewhat hilly 7-mile hike to 7 separate ponds as well as ledges with scenic views, 9:30am-2:00pm.

Sun, June 16. Wollaston Beach, Quincy. Fast-paced 7-mi walk along Wollaston Beach, Marina Bay, 9:00am-noon.

Sat, June 22. 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.

Sat, June 22. Walk with Thoreau in Billerica. 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, 9:45am - 1:00pm. This walk is one of many RiverFest events.Henderson

Sun, June 23. Groton Hills. 1:00pm. Come explore this large chunk of conservation land with varied topography, including beaver ponds, meadows, upland, and eskers. About 2 hours, moderate pace.

Sun, June 23. Stony Brook South, Lincoln. 2½ hr. hike through woods and along a chain of ponds and streams and a few gentle hills. 10:00am-12:30pm. Option for lunch in Lincoln afterwards.

Thurs, June 27. East Boston Greenway/Piers Park/Harborwalk/Marine Arts Sculpture Park. 2 hour walk, some history, good harbor views. Option for harborside Downeast Cider Co. visit and picnic table dinner at KO Australian bistro.

Sat, June 29. Grassy Pond Conservation Land, Acton. Slow-paced nature walk through fields and forests to Grassy Pond looking for summer wildflowers and fruits. The walk will focus on plant ID and fun natural history. 1:00-4:00pm.

Sat, June 29. Middlesex Fells, Malden. 7-mile fast-paced 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, June 30. Broadmoor (Natick) Mass Audubon walk. [Cancelled due to expected thunderstorms] 9-11am. Meet outside the Visitors Center. Join us for a walk in this convenient (on Route 16), yet expansive wildlife retreat. Moderate pace, easy trails with some gentle hills and rocks.

July 2019

Thurs, July 4. World's End Reservation, Hingham. Scenic 5-mi. walk, 8:30-11:30am.

Fri, July 5. Thompson Island Sandbar Sunset Walk, Quincy/Boston. Unusual 4-mile walk with great views along sandbar at low tide to southern edge of a Boston Harbor island, 6:45pm-9:00pm.

Sat, July 6. Blue Hills Observatory Tour and Hike, Milton, MA. Moderate 6-mi. hike including tour of observatory on top of Great Blue Hill, with meteorologist Eric Fisher joining us (hike to Hemenway Hill takes place after tour), 9:30am-2:00pm. Registration required as number of hikers is limited.

Sun, July 7. Cutler Park Reservation, Needham. 9-11am. 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. [Directions: 84 Kendrick St, Needham, MA]

Sat, July 13. Blue Hills Skyline Trail, Quincy. 6.5-mile fast-paced 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.

Sat, July 20. 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, July 21. Rock Meadow Conservation Land, Belmont. 8:30am-11:30am. Slow-paced nature walk through fields, forests and a wet meadow to enjoy nature in summer with a focus on all the summer wildflowers in bloom. The walk will focus on plant ID and fun natural history.

Fri, July 26. Beacon Hill, Charles River Esplanade, Back Bay, Boston. 6:30pm to 9:15pm. Leisurely 5-mi walk including historic streets, gorgeous waterside pathways, and a walk across a new pedestrian bridge.

Sat, July 27. (Rain Date: Sun, July 28) 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 and 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 walk has become an annual tradition and is a joint venture with FreeWalkers.

Sun, July 28. Hike in the Fells, Medford/Winchester. 2:00pm-4:00pm. An excursion in the less visited Lawrence Woods section of the Fells, the southern part of the Winchester reservoirs section, and the Wright Tower. 2:00pm-4:00pm.

August 2019

Sat, Aug 3. 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-12:45pm.

Sun, Aug 4. Castle Island, South Boston. 7:30-9:30am. Beat the heat and bugs on a scenic early morning walk at Castle Island with a couple of loops around the "sugar bowl" followed by breakfast at Sullivan's (counter service).

Sun, Aug 4. Blue Hills, Milton. 9:00am-12:00pm. Join us for a co-sponsored hike with both the Boston and Southeastern Massachusetts Chapters. We’ll be in the Blue Hills Reservation for a “Buck Hill Loop” hike. This will be at a moderate pace, on steep hills and rocky trails for 3½ - 4 miles. The trip is not recommended for beginners! We will summit Tucker, North Boyce, and Buck Hills via the Skyline Trail and return using the Red Dot Trail.

Sat, Aug 10. Ponkapoag Pond, Canton. Moderate pace 5 mile walk, around scenic Ponkapoag Pond, with beautiful views of Great Blue Hill. Pleasant stroll across golf course, on maple tree walkway. Enjoy sit-down break, on the dock at AMC Camp. Walk followed by dinner/social hour at The Lodge Bar & Grill, in nearby Randolph.

Sun, Aug 11. Lynn Woods Reservation, Lynn. 106 Pennybrook Pkg. lot off of Walnut St. Make LEFT turn after DD or at traffic light at Pennybrook Rd. Mod to Stren. 6 mi., 9am-1pm. Bring lunch, H2O, snacks. Leaders choice.

Sat, Aug 17. 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.

Sat, Aug 17. Houghs Neck, Quincy. Unusual, fast-paced 9-mile peninsula hike mostly 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.

Sat, Aug 24. Wompatuck State Park, Hingham. 9.5 mile fast-paced hike w/lunch at scenic pond, 9:30am-2:00pm.

Sat, Aug 31. Middlesex Fells - Medford. Difficult 5-mile hike on steep terrain with spectacular views from the High Fells Reservoir, Boojum Rock, and more, 11:40am-2:40pm.

September 2019

Sun, Sept 1. Middlesex Fells, Winchester. Sheepfold Pkg. lot. Mod to stren. 5 mi. hike over some hills & rough terrain. 9am-1pm.

Mon, Sept 2. World's End Reservation, Hingham. 5 mile walk, 8:30am-11:30am.

Sat, Sept 7. Arlington’s Great Meadows, Lexington. 9:00am-12:00noon. September is a wonderful season in New England: plants are weighed down with fruits and leaves are ablaze with colors. Come celebrate the season with a 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 also learn why Arlington’s Great Meadows is in Lexington.

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

Fri, Sept 13. Historic Streets of Charlestown. Moderate 5-mi walk including water views, old homes, and new parts of the Harborwalk. 6:30-9:15pm.

Sat, Sept 14. Crane Beach, Ipswich. Moderate 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, at around 2:00pm.

Sat, Sept 14. Hale Reservation/Noanet Woodlands, Westwood/Dover. Fast-paced 8-mi. hike including ponds, streams, cabins, lodges, an historic mill site, and a peak with sweeping views, 9:30am-2:15pm.

Sat, Sept 21. 6th Annual Duxbury Beach Walk. 9:30am-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. Moderate pace.

Sat, Sept 21. Middlesex Fells Multi-Hill Hike, Medford. 8-mile hike to a number of hills in the Western and Southern Fells, including Gerry, Silver Mine, Wenepoykin, Pasture, Pine, Rams Head, and Rock, 9:30am-2:15pm.

Sun, Sept 22. Fitch's Bridge to Hayes Woods, Groton. 1:00pm-3:00pm. 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. About 2 hours, moderate pace.

Sat, Sept 28. Literary Walk in Concord, MA. 10:00am-12:00pm Meet at Walden Pond parking area, at Thoreau cabin replica. Walk to Concord center via the Reflective Walk and the Thoreau-Emerson Amble. Bring a short, one minute, reading - quote or bio fact - of Emerson, Thoreau, Alcotts, Hawthorne. Stops for readings at Fairy Land Pond, Emerson, Alcott and Hawthorne houses. Optional lunch at Thoreau family homestead, now Colonial Inn, on Concord Green.

Sun, Sept 29. Mt. Wachusett, Princeton. 9 mi. hike. 10am-3pm. Hike starts at Wachusett Meadows Wildlife Sanctuary.

October 2019

Sat, Oct 5. Warner Trail Fall Hike, Wrentham. 9am-4pm. 10-mi. mod. hike from Wampum Corner, Wrentham to Diamond Hill, Cumberland, RI.

Sat, Oct 5. Coastal Walk/Historic Streets of Marblehead. Moderate-paced, hilly 5-mile hike to an island at low tide as well as beaches, waterfront parks, narrow lanes with old homes, and public alleyways, 10:00am-1:45pm.

Sun, Oct 6. Explore Lexington's Whipple Hill. 2:00pm-4:00pm. Whipple Hill is Lexington's largest conservation area with varied woods, ponds and hills. Our route will include a visit to neighboring Wright-Locke farm in Winchester.

Sat, Oct 12. Ponkapoag Pond, Canton. Moderate pace 5 mile walk, around scenic Ponkapoag Pond, with beautiful views of Great Blue Hill. Pleasant stroll across golf course, on maple tree walkway. Enjoy sit-down break, on the dock at AMC Camp. Walk followed by dinner/social hour at The Lodge Bar & Grill, in nearby Randolph, at around 2:00pm.

Sat, Oct 12. Forest Bathing in the Middlesex Fells with Lisa Mediano. 8:30am-10:30am. Forest Bathing in the Middlesex Fells with Lisa Mediano, a Certified Forest Therapy Guide with the Association of Nature & Forest Therapy Guides and Programs “ANFT™”.

Sun, Oct 13. The Throne, Groton. 1:00pm-3:00pm. Come hike thru one of the largest contiguous undeveloped parcels in the area, featuring upland forest, interspersed wetlands, and generally pretty woods. About 2 hours, moderate pace.

Mon, Oct 14. Webb Memorial State Park and Great Hill Park, North Weymouth. Moderate pace 5 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.

Sat, Oct 19. 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).

Sat, Oct 19. Bay Circuit Trail (BCT) / Mass Central Rail Trail-Wayside (MCRT-W), Walk Wayland to Lincoln. Mostly level 5+ mi. walk on a new BCT segment from Wayland to Weston on the MCRT-W then thru conservation lands in Weston (new BCT cooperating town) and Lincoln. Meet at 9:00am. Hike part of the existing MCRT-W to the opening ceremonies for the new MCRT-W in Wayland. Join the procession that will continue to another opening ceremony in Weston leaving the procession when the BCT heads north through Weston Town Forests to Lincoln (total distance 5+ miles).

Sun, Oct 20. Historic 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. The 2-2½ hour walk will cover part of the Merrimack branch of the canal in Billerica and Chelmsford, about 3 to 4 miles over generally level wooded terrain and streets. Sites to visit en route will include a guard lock, the anchor stone for the floating towpath that bridged the Concord River, and many stretches of watered canal.

Sat, Oct 26. Middlesex Fells, Malden. 6-mile fast-paced hike, some rocky steep hills to cliff views including waterfall w/lunch at pond. Moderate-rated hike, not for beginners. 10:00am-2:30pm.

November 2019

Sat, Nov 2. Castle Island, South Boston. Fast-paced seven-mile scenic walk along ocean to Castle Island, 10:00am-1:30pm.

Sat, Nov 2. Maudslay State Park, Newburyport. Moderate pace 4 mile walk, on former estate carriage roads, with scenic views across the Merrimack River. Trail wanders through open grass meadows, then enters primeval stands of white pine. Stroll over stone built bridges, visit rhododendron and azalea gardens.

Mon, Nov 4. Dawn Hike in the Fells. 5:50am-7:00am. Taking advantage of the return of standard time, we will explore the ponds area of the Middlesex Fells at first light on a 1-hour brisk pre-breakfast hike. We will start hiking at 6:00 sharp.

Fri, Nov 8. Beacon Hill/North End, Boston. Leisurely 4-mi walk including historic streets, secret alleyways, and a visit to a public market and a bakery. 6:30-9:15pm.

Sat, Nov 9. Breakheart Reservation, Saugus. Fast-paced, challenging 5-mile hike including rocky hills, pristine lakes, and a "new" peak with sweeping views, 11:45am-2:45pm.

Sun, Nov 10. Boxford State Forest. Meet at 1:00pm in the parking lot on Middleton Rd. in Boxford, at the steel gate. Kids and dogs are welcome. Hike will be about 2 hours with a moderate pace and easy terrain.

Sun, Nov 10. Kailey's Way to Crystal Spring, Groton. 1:00pm-3:00pm. Join us for this one-way traverse thru a exceptionally scenic area featuring beaver ponds, hemlock groves, upland forest, and the beautiful Crystal Spring. About 2 hours, moderate pace.

Sat, Nov 16. Crane Beach, Ipswich. Moderate 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, Nov 16. Glacial Features Walk, 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. Flat with one steep 50 foot section.

Sat, Nov 16. Cutler Park Reservation, Needham. 9-11am. Join us for a walk in this local gem, conveniently located directly off of Route 128. 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.

Sun, Nov 17. The Landlocked Forest, Burlington. A slow-paced walk of two miles or so to enjoy the natural beauty Burlington offers while Boot identifies the various trees, shrubs and winter weeds. The Landlocked Forest features woodlands, wetlands, streams and meadows. The walk will focus on both plant ID and natural history.

Sat, Nov 23. Circumnavigate 3 ponds, Lincoln. 9:00am-2:00pm. Explore beyond Walden: a 10 mile loop around Walden, Farrar, and Flint Ponds with great forest and water views. Modest elevation gains, but we’ll walk at a fast 2-2.5mph pace so that we can complete the loop in 4-5 hours.

Sat, Nov 23. 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.

Thurs, Nov 28. Holiday Hike - Lynn Woods, Lynn. 5 miles, Leader's Choice. 9:00am-1:00pm.

Fri, Nov 29. Blue Hills, Ponkapoag Pond. 5 mi. mod.-paced hike, 10:30am-1:30pm. Bring lunch+water.

Fri, Nov 29. 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.

Fri, Nov 29. [Forty Plus] Post-Thanksgiving Day Blue Hills Skyline Hike. Join us for our traditional Black Friday hike in the Blue Hills. We will hike at a moderate pace from the Shea Rink (651 Willard St., Quincy) to Chickatawbut Hill and back. This will be a 5-6-mile hike mostly on the Skyline trail. The trail has some rocky and steep sections so some experience is needed. We will stop as needed for snacks/water and lunch and to take in the views. Dress in layer and wear appropriate footwear. Bring rain gear, hat, and gloves. Hiking poles are recommended. Rain will cancel the hike. Please check the website for last-minute information. Start time is 10:00am. Please plan to arrive 10-15 minutes earlier so we can leave promptly at 10:00am. Registration for this hike is not required, but feel free to contact the leader if you have any questions. L Maria Costantini; CL Barbara Lightizer.

Sat, Nov 30. Blue Hills, Milton. Annual post-Thanksgiving hike up Great Blue and more. Fast-paced, moderate 7-mi. hike on scenic trails to Great Blue Hill including quick stop at observatory, plus Hemenway and Hancock Hills, 9:45am-2:00pm.

December 2019

Sun, Dec 1. Middlesex Fells - Out and Back to Wright's Tower. Join us on a 4 mile hike from the Sheepfold to Wright's Tower and back. We'll hike at a moderate pace (1-1/2 to 2 mph) and have lunch at the overlook.

Sun, Dec 1. Farrar Pond and Mt. Misery, Lincoln. 10:00am-1:30pm. Burn off some Thanksgiving calories on this 5 mile moderate 1.5-2mph pace hike around scenic Farrar Pond and the popular Mt. Misery areas.

Wed, Dec 4. [Forty Plus] Battle Road Trail Walk - Minute Man National Park. Join us to walk the five-mile Battle Road Trail in Minute Man National Historical Park. This trail connects historic sites from Meriam"s Corner in Concord to the eastern boundary of the park in Lexington. The main theme of the trail is the Battle of April 19, 1775 that launched the American Revolution. Much of the trail follows the route of the Minute Men, traversing farming fields, wetlands, and forests. Many of the houses along the road, known since 1775 as the "Battle Road" are still standing today. The trail also passes battle sites, a monument at the site where Paul Revere was captured during his midnight ride, and the Hartwell Tavern, a restored 18th century inn. The file mile trail is easy, flat and well-graded. We will walk at a moderate pace with brief stops at the many historic landmarks. A Minute Man Park volunteer guide and fellow AMC member will join us to answer questions and provide color commentary. We will meet at 10am and expect to take 2.5-3 hours completing the walk, If there is interest, we will gather after the walk at a care in Concord for college and a snack/lunch. We will be spotting cars. Details, including meeting location, to come 1 or 2 days before the walk. L Joan Blaustein; CL Kathleen Ackerman.

Sat, Dec 7. Neponset River Greenway/Mattapan Sq/Milton Hill. 7.5-mile fast-paced 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, Dec 14. Walden Pond, Concord. [Cancelled due to expected rain] 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.

Sat, Dec 14. Whitney and Thayer Woods, Cohasset. [Cancelled due to expected rain] 9:30am-2:00pm. Brisk pace 8 mi. hike along rolling hills including a holly grove, Oden's Den, Weir River Farm and scenic lunch on Turkey Hill.

Sat, Dec 14. Habitat Audubon Sanctuary, Belmont, MA. Celebrate the Solstice Walk. The Winter Solstice arrives in just one week. 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 14. Holiday Wreaths & Green Boughs, Boston. [Cancelled - rain] Admire seasonal decorations in Boston's Back Bay & Beacon Hill. 9:30am-11:30am; moderate pace.

Sun, Dec 15. Groton Town Forest to Fitch's Bridge. 1:00pm-3:00pm. We will start in the scenic Town Forest, with eskers, kettle holes, unusual bogs, hemlock groves, and more. Then we will use Groton's extensive trail system thru a string of conservation lands to end at Fitch's Bridge over the beautiful Nashua River. About 2 hours, moderate pace.

Sun, Dec 15. Horse Hill Nature Preserve, Merrimac, NH. [Cancelled due to trail conditions] A moderate 5 mi. forest loop hike at a comfortable pace on well maintained trails through scenic woodlands. Pond views, beaver lodges and dams.and historic sites. 9:30am-2:00pm.

Sat, Dec 21. Northern Lynn Woods, Lynn. Challenging 6-mi. hike through rugged terrain with plenty of scenic views, including Mt. Hermon, Mt. Spickett, Bow Ridge, Weetamoo Cliff, and the "other" Walden Pond, 9:45am-2:00pm.

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

Wed, Dec 25. Blue Hills Ponkapoag Pond, Canton. Moderate pace 5-mi. hike/snowshoe around pond, 10:00am-12:15pm.

Wed, 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. Snowshoe if sufficient snow cover. Meet 10am.

Sat, Dec 28. Western Middlesex Fells, Medford. Fast-paced hilly 7-mi. hike mostly on Skyline Trail loop with great views throughout, 9:45am-2:00pm.

Sun, Dec 29. Burrage Pond, Hanson. 5-mile fast-paced hike, 10:00am-12:15pm on abandoned cranberry bog, sandy trails featuring open water and marshland.