Hiking can be done year-round in eastern Massachusetts, but many clubs switch in winter and take up cross-country skiing on snow-covered trails. Some hiking groups maintain trails on a regular basis, while others meet up to hike and have a good time. A sturdy pair of hiking boots and a good hiking stick is all that is needed most of the year.
Considerations
Eastern Massachusetts encompasses the urban environment of Boston, the beaches of Cape Cod and the south shore and interior cities and suburbs. Some clubs are branches of national groups, while others are informal groups that share common interests. College and university hiking groups limit membership, but are an option for alumni, students and staff. Before joining, consider how much travel is involved to get to club meetings; take public transportation in Boston and minimize carbon fuel use.
Common Interests
A relationship with the University of Massachusetts is necessary to join The Outing Club, which has hiking, rock-climbing and other outdoor year-round recreational trips. Mamma's Hiking with Tykes is a group of 81 mothers who bring young children on hiking expeditions to introduce them to the outdoors. The Blue Hills Hiking Group, with 323 members, shares a love for the 125 miles of hiking trails on the Blue Hills Reservation in Milton. Young couples are welcome at the SE Massachusetts 20s and 30s Couples Club; the Mosaic Jewish Outdoor Club of Massachusetts shares a common religion but welcomes outdoor enthusiasts of other faiths.
Membership
Membership is required by most hiking clubs; clubs with membership restrictions welcome newcomers to visit before joining. The Boston Hiking Meetup Group has almost 4,000 members with different levels of hiking experience and welcomes newcomers. Individual, couples and family rates may apply. Several clubs have open enrollment. The Random Group of Hikers posts upcoming hikes on its websites. The North Shore Not Too Intense Hikers group has taken trips to state parks, farms and historic sites.
Locations
Many hiking clubs venture away from home territory and visit parks, recreational areas and beaches. Some travel into neighboring areas of southern New Hampshire or, like The Outing Club, have a cabin in the mountains to use as a base of hiking operations. Others, like The Evening Walkers in Framingham, stay close to home following sidewalks, side streets and pedestrian paths. The Brockton South Shore Walking/Hiking Group is for intermediate hikers and walks around DW Field Park.
Know the Risks
Regardless of whether or not membership is open, all hikers should consult with the group's moderator or hike leader to gauge the level of difficulty of upcoming hikes. New hikers should be honest about skill levels and not attempt to "fake it" on difficult or technical hikes. There is always a risk involved in hiking, and clubs cannot be held liable for injuries or damages. Many require a signed acknowledgment of that fact when dues are collected. Hike leaders can turn away individuals who are not properly equipped for hikes.
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