Hiking

01/21/2012

A healthy 2012: practicing what we preach

 

Signing

On January 1st, 2012, the Departments of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), Public Health (DPH), and Agricultural Resources (DAR) signed a joint resolution with the mutual goal of encouraging people to maintain a healthy lifestyle through year-round outdoor recreation and quiet enjoyment in our state parks and eating locally grown and produced agricultural products. The event was celebrated statewide at over nine locations from the Blue Hills Reservation in Milton to western Massachusetts' Mount Greylock State Reservation, where more than 1,700 visitors came out to enjoy nature and get some exercise on a beautiful winter day.

In 2012, our agencies will be promoting the physical, emotional, and nutritional health of our residents, visitors, and of course our own employees!  And one of those employees is DAR Commissioner Scott Soares. Commissioner Soares has committed to losing two pounds per month via a friendly inter-agency “Choose Two for You” challenge that will culminate with a celebration of our collective achievements at a 2K-thon challenge at a featured farm location and/or DCR state park in the fall of 2012. We look forward to seeing many of our colleagues -- including DPH Commissioner John Auerbach -- at the event!

In the meantime, we thought we’d share some of the great “Two for You” challenges we’ve sent out across the agencies:

  • Visit at least two Massachusetts state parks each season and engage in a recreational activity such as hiking, biking or walking.
  • Eat fruits and vegetables (preferably locally-grown) at least two times a day to reach the five or more daily recommended servings and include 2-3 servings of whole-grains (any food made from wheat, rice, barley, oats, or another cereal grain) each day. Go to www.choosemyplate.gov for more information.
    First Day Hike
  • For those who exceed their healthy weight (Body Mass Index [BMI] greater than 25), lose at least two pounds a month until your healthy ideal weight is reached (Please consult your physician first). Calculate your BMI at www.nhlbisupport.com/bmi
  • Take the stairs instead of the elevator or escalator at least two times a week or check out other tips offered at www.mass.gov/massinmotion
  • Integrate movement into your workday at least twice every two hours e.g. a walk to the water cooler, take a lap around the office, do some stretches at your work area.  Take a longer walk in a park, along a greenway or a sidewalk during lunch.
  • Include muscle-strengthening activities two times per week.
  • Exercise for at least two days a week for 30 minutes (e.g. a brisk two-mile walk) towards achieving the recommended 2 hours and 20 minutes per week. Check out DCR’s Healthy Heart Trails in over 70 state parks across the state!
  • Add at least two new exercise routines to your current workout.
  • Try two new recreational activities this year such as canoeing, kayaking, snowshoeing, mountain biking or camping.

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01/17/2012

Weekly outdoors events 1/16/12

On Sunday, January 22 head to the Hammond Pond Reservation in Newton at 1 pm for the Winter Ramble! Join a DCR ranger on a winter stroll through the wooded trails and Roxbury Puddingstone outcroppings. Parties will also explore nearby Houghton Garden’s historic trails in Newton. Call 617-333-7404 ext. 101 to register and get the meeting place.

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12/09/2011

Cold weather safety tips

Soon, winter jackets and snow boots will begin to reappear and it’s important to remember that your clothing is not the only thing that needs to be adjusted with a change of season.  Here are a few cold weather safety tips to keep you safe, warm, and healthy heading into the New Year.

Whether you’re hiking, kayaking, ice fishing, or bird watching, always tell someone where you are going and what you are doing. Everyone needs a little alone time, but don’t forget to mention the details of your planned excursion  so that your friends and family know when to expect you back or where to look for you in the event of an accident.

As always, be prepared with plenty of water and first aid items to prevent any small incidents from becoming an emergency. Flashlights, maps, and snacks are also good additions to the safety pack. As with any activity outdoors, know what you are and are not capable of before heading out.

If operating recreational vehicles, such as snow mobiles or dirt bikes (Note: DCR trails are closed for the season to dirt bikes and other off-highway vehicles, other than snow mobiles), remember to wear a U.S. Department of Transportation-approved helmet. Also, take caution during bad weather and at night, making sure to stay aware of your speed and surroundings. For ice fishers, check that ponds and rivers are completely frozen before venturing out onto the ice.  Exercise more caution when the temperatures are reaching 32 degrees F.

Be prepared for anything. Don’t let New England’s unpredictable weather patterns leave you cold and wet in the middle of the woods. Get updated weather information before you set off and plan accordingly. Be ready to respond to unexpected weather with extra clothing, gloves, and hats. If planning to be outside for a long period of time, bring extra layers to add as the temperature drops. It’s all about layers: rather than wearing one heavy coat, use thermal underwear and undershirts to layer light-weight, warm clothing, and always wear a waterproof outer layer.

For hunters and hikers and everyone in between, wear bright clothing to maintain visibility past 5 pm. The fall and winter seasons bring a lot of activity into the great outdoors, so always be aware and respectful of others. 

As always, officers from the Massachusetts Environmental Police are prepared for the upcoming cold weather months. They'll be patrolling off-road areas, as well as coastal and inland waters, and doing everything they can to protect the state’s residents and visitors. Enjoy all that Massachusetts has to offer with these cold weather safety tips and always use your best judgment.

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12/05/2011

Weekly outdoor events 12/5

On Friday, December 9, come listen to some live holiday tunes at DCR’s Mount Greylock State Reservation from 6:30 to 8 p.m.   A free, fun and interactive holiday performance will be given by Richard Fabozzi, a Berkshire-based entertainer, who features impressions of Dean Martin, Elvis Presley, Jimmy Durante, Bing Crosby and others.  This show is entertaining for all ages and generations, and participation is optional.  Refreshments will be available for purchase. 

On Saturday, December 10 from 2 to 3 p.m., join a DCR park ranger for a tour of the Charles River Dam, the facility that protects the neighborhoods of Cambridge and Boston’s Back Bay from flooding by the Charles River. The tour will be meeting at Paul Revere Park, at the flagpoles, just below the Charlestown Bridge and City Square.

On Sunday, December 12, head down to Massasoit State Park at 4 p.m. for the Full Moon Hike.  This full moon is known by many names, such as: Oak Moon, Cold Moon, Frost Moon, Winter Moon and Long Night’s Moon.  This full moon is special, as is the only night of the month in which the moon remains in the sky from sunset to sunrise.  While you enjoy the changes in landscape that night brings, don’t forget to take in the inspiring views of Lake Rico, as the sun sets over the white pine trees. Absorb the peace, tranquility and beauty of the forested trails after sunset.

Bring water and flashlight, wear good hiking shoes, and dress for the weather. Hike is about 3 miles long and appropriate for adults and children 10+. Meet at the main parking lot at 1361 Middleboro Avenue, East Taunton. Rain, snow, or icy trails will cancel. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Please call (508) 866-2580 x162 to pre-register or for more information.

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11/23/2011

Enjoys some post-Turkey Day outdoor events

In between pushing yourself away from the Thanksgiving table and launching into the December holiday season, why not take some time to enjoy some exercise in the great outdoors?   

DCR welcomes visitors to the following post-Thanksgiving events on Friday the 25th, Saturday the 26th, and Sunday the 27th. 
       
Thanksgiving Thoreau Rambles
Walden Pond State Reservation
Saturday, November 26 from 11 a.m.-noon and Sunday, November 27 from 1p.m.-2p.m.
Learn about the famed poet, philosopher and mystic Henry David Thoreau, his stay at Walden Pond from 1845-1847, and his enduring legacy. This program is for visitors of all ages. The tour will begin at the Thoreau House replica near the main park entrance. This is a free program but there is a $5 parking fee.

Give Thanks and Take A Hike
Borderland State Park
Friday, November 25 1 p.m.-3 p.m.
Spend some time with nature the day after Thanksgiving. Perhaps after a day of indulgence, you want to burn off some of those calories, too! Please bring water and be prepared to cover 3 miles of moderate to difficult trails. Meet at the Visitor Center. Program is free and open to the public.  There is $2 parking fee.

Too much Turkey Hike
Myles Standish State Forest
Friday, November 25, 9 a.m.- 10:30 a.m.
Come out for briskly paced hike to burn off some of those turkey dinner calorie! Please bring water and be prepared to cover 2-3 miles of moderate difficulty trails. Meet at the Headquarters at 194 Cranberry Road. Program is free and open to the public.

Foray after the Feast
Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve
Friday, November 25, 10 a.m.- noon
A hike along the Quashnet River is a perfect family outing after a day of feasting. This 2.5 mile trek takes you along both sides of the river where you will discover different wetland and upland habitats and search for signs of local wildlife. This is an easy to moderate hike with some small hills. Meet at the Martin Road Parking area off Route 28 in Falmouth. Program is free and open to the public.

Visitors unable to attend any of the above events are welcome to walk, hike, bike or, more simply, take in the scenery, at any of DCR’s parks and forests. Visit DCR’s website at www.mass.gov/dcr for more information on events, recreation and conservation.

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11/21/2011

Weekly outdoor events 11/21

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!

This week, it is all about hiking.  Well, eating, resting, then eating some more, followed by hiking.  So if you are looking to burn off some of those excess calories, this is a good week for you!

There are three guided hikes this week on November 25 (better known as “Black Friday”).  The first hike is in Carver at 9 a.m., at DCR’s Myles Standish State Forest.  This hike will cover 2-3 miles of moderately difficult trails.  This hike is recommended for adults and older children who are able to walk at a moderate or fast pace for the duration of the hike.  Rain or snow will cancel this event, so please contact the park for confirmation.

The second hike on Black Friday begins at 10 a.m. in Falmouth at DCR’s Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Reserve.  This hike is perfect for a family outing after a long day of feasting.  This is an easy to moderate 2.5 mile hike featuring a few small hills.  This trek will take you along both sides of the Quashnet River, where you can discover different wetland and upland habitats and look for wildlife.  Learn more about the path of the river, and how it has changed courses over the years.  For more information, call (508) 457-0495 x125.

The third hike offered post-Turkey Day is in Easton at DCR’s Borderland State Park.  This hike begins at 1 p.m., and is approximately 3 miles long.  This trail boasts moderately difficult terrain, so please come prepared!  Rain or snow will cancel this hike, so please contact the park for confirmation.

On Sunday, November 27, go to DCR’s Breakheart Reservation for one of their weekly guided hikes.  At 11 a.m., join your guide and others to explore the Middlesex Fells Reservation for a difficult hike that will last approximately 3 hours.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving and be safe hiking!

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11/07/2011

Weekly outdoor events 11/6

As cooler weather sets in, the events are slowly winding down.  But before hibernation begins, get out for a tour of DCR's Quincy Quarries (in Quincy) on Saturday, November 12th.  At 1 p.m., join geologist Les Tyrala and a DCR ranger to explore the geology (including glacial features), the quarry history and its value to Quincy.  Sturdy footwear is required, along with the ability to climb rugged, narrow trails. The tour will run approximately 1.5 hours.  Space is limited, and pre-registration is required.  Please call 617-698-1802 (ext 213) for a meeting place and directions.

Also on Saturday at 10 a.m., the DCR headquarters in Revere is hosting ‘Sea Turtle Surprises’, where children can experience hands-on learning about sea turtles, their habitat, and their importance within the ecosystem. 

For more Massachusetts Outdoor Events, visit The Great Outdoors interactive Google Calendar.

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11/02/2011

Hiking the Skyline

Skyline Trail in DCR’s Blue Hills ReservationColumbus Day weekend I got to fulfill a wish I’ve had for the past two years – hiking the nine-plus miles of the Skyline Trail in DCR’s Blue Hills Reservation. For me, the greatest thing about the Blue Hills is that it provides over 125 miles of awesome hiking trails so close to Boston.

The Skyline crosses the entire range of the Blue Hills and takes you to some fantastic peaks, like the Wampatuck, Chickatawbut, Buck and Great Blue Hills. Once thing you should know – this is not a loop trail, and you’ll need two cars to shuttle you from one end to the other.

Be warned: this is not a hike for the faint of heart. Some parts of the trail were rugged, rocky and narrow. Six of us started (a few folks had to turn around) from the west end of the trail at the Route 138 entrance. We made our way to the summit of the 635-foot Great Blue Hill then continued past the Eliot Tower, a stone structure that provides an amazing view of the Boston skyline. Hmm, I wonder if that’s how the trail got its name? Eliot Tower

It was a warm day for a hike, reaching up into the 80s. You should always plan to bring enough water when you go hiking – at least two liters. A lot variables factor into that measurement: your level of fitness, humidity, temperature and how much you exert yourself. Warmer weather calls for more water. And carry foods that contain potassium and sodium like peanuts, raisins, and bananas.

Originally we had planned to hike the weekend before, but there was rain so we rescheduled it. In my opinion trails are always best when they’re dry, especially where the trail gets rocky. Remember to monitor weather conditions and wear the proper clothes and footwear before setting off. One trick I learned from one on of my companions is to put insoles into my hiking boots for comfort.

During our five-hour hike we saw some green, lush landscapes and picturesque vistas along the way. The terrain is rocky in places and it was at the Chickatawbut Hill that I felt like I was rock-climbing to get to the top.

At the end, I couldn’t help but smile. The sense of accomplishment was overwhelming at completing the trail. If you’re up for a strenuous hike, I highly recommend the Skyline trail!

Skyline Trail in DCR’s Blue Hills Reservation


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10/31/2011

Weekly outdoor events 10/30

Happy Halloween everyone! 

On Wednesday, November 2, parents and nature-loving children (recommended ages are 5-11) should head to the DCR’s headquarters in Revere at 2 p.m. for ‘Sea Turtle Surprises’. This is an exciting, hands-on learning adventure through DCR’s Coastal Awareness Program to help children understand the importance of sea turtles and to learn more about their threatened habitats. 

For those with a passion for the stars, come to Astronomy Night at DCR’s Borderland State Park.  On Friday, November 4 at 7 p.m., join Steve Clougherty and other local astronomers to look at Jupiter, the first-quarter moon, and the fall constellations. Bring your binoculars; large telescopes will be available with instructors. Cloudy skies will cancel, so please call the park (508-238-6566) on the day of the event to confirm. 

Last, but not least, this activity is for the very active and adventurous.  On Saturday, November 6, DCR's Blue Hills Reservation is offering a strenuous and rugged eight-mile Skyline Hike over the peaks and valleys of the Skyline Trail.  This hike will run approximately 5-7 hours, and is recommended for ages 16 and up.  Space is limited and pre-registration is required.  Please call 617-698-1802 (ext. 212) to register and to find out the meeting location and time for this event.

For more Massachusetts Outdoor Events, visit The Great Outdoors interactive Google Calendar.

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10/26/2011

Biking the Central Mass Rail Trail in Rutland

Marion Larson

Marion Larson

Outreach Coordinator, MassWildlife

View Marion's Bio

Biking down the rail trailA gorgeous, warm autumn day inspired my husband and me to take our hybrid bikes to the Rutland portion of the Central Mass. Rail Trail. The stone dust rail trail in this area crosses part of the Midstate Trail, DCR’s Rutland State Park (near Whitehall and Long Ponds), and a portion of the DCR Ware River Watershed. The parking lot on Route 122 was our entry to the trail. A few stone benches can be found along the trail and there is a granite stone marker describing a major train accident that occurred in 1932 as well as a rail marker indicates 49 miles to Northampton.

Fall colors graced the trail and reflected in the ponds and cold water streams that crossed the trail. I smelled cooking fires from the state park and spotted a couple of mountain bikers on some adjoining trails. Though we encountered other cyclists, couples, teens, and young families walking, and even a group of horseback riders, the trail didn’t feel a bit crowded. 

Central Mass Rail Trail SignWe especially appreciated the recent cut-through tunnel near Rte 56 and Moulton Pond. It saved us from hauling our bikes up a steep embankment and riding up a good-sized hill to get to the next section of trail. Three cheers to Wachusett Greenways, the organization responsible for this most recent milestone! This group’s determined efforts have kept expanding the rail trail’s length and accessibility to all.

If you have the chance, take a hike or bike this lovely section trail in central Massachusetts. Go fishing in the stream or nearby Long and Whitehall Ponds, picnic at the state park or contemplate the lily pads and fall colors on the small ponds. Adventurous folks can explore a network of roads in the Ware River Watershed property, popularly referred to as the Prison Camps area. Hunting, hiking, fishing, biking and other passive recreation is permitted in this area.  With the onset of hunting seasons, wearing a blaze orange vest or cap is a good visibility idea. 

Enjoy the area! Train Wreck Marker Stone

Wachusett Greenways: Programs, projects, updates, and a rail trail map of the current and proposed route for the Central Mass Rail Trail.

Ware River Watershed Lands:  A variety of recreation opportunities are available on this 23,000 acre property. Maps of designated biking and horseback riding trails, wildlife management areas, and other information can be found here.

Midstate Trail Website: This jewel of a trail covers 95 miles in Worcester County from RI to NH. It is not as well known and is less travelled compared to the popular Metacomet-Mondanock and Appalachian Trails further west.

Moulton Pond, Rutland

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