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  • Babes in the Woods Hike

    • July 05, 2022
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Greenwood Park Parking Lot 176 Pond St Stoneham, MA 02180
    • 18
    Register

    Babes in the Woods Program

    Since 1999, Babes in the Woods is the Friends of the Fells’ free popular weekday family hiking program. Caregivers carrying babies are welcome on these fun guided hikes through the Middlesex Fells Reservation. Babes in the Woods is an adult-paced hike designed for parents who carry their children. These hikes are not recommended for young children who walk.

    We recommend that you bring along snacks and drinks, and make sure to dress for the weather—depending on the season, some trails may be muddy or icy in spots.

    Location changes weekly. 

    Pre-registration is required.

    We'll be splitting into two groups for this hike. The first group can hike maskless. The second group will keep masks on.

    Please note that hikes are not accessible for strollers. 

    For our participants' comfort, we don't allow dogs to hike with us.

    Our walks are cancelled only in case of bad weather: too hot, too cold, or too rainy. 

    Check our Facebook page for the latest details: 
    https://www.facebook.com/BabesinWoodsFells/


    Show details

  • Plant & Wildlife Monitoring with Earthwise Aware

    • July 08, 2022
    • 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Long Pond Parking Lot

    The Earthwise Aware's naturalist team introduces how to document the Fells' ecological communities at risk in a fast-changing world. Join us!

    This is an orientation field session that introduces the EwA science program and the team that makes it happen. You will help and record bird movement, observe seasonal phases of fauna and flora, monitor bio-pollution, and map habitat fragmentation. It's also a chance to learn new skills and join the team & effort ツ

    ⓘ Details & Registration: Please note that space is strictly limited, and pre-registration are required for all of our group events ⚠ no on-site registrations will be permitted. Register here today » Thanks!

    Hiking pace: Moderate-to-fast when possible–yet very quietly–on the lookout for any kind of signs. Wear long pants and sturdy boots. This is a great opportunity to learn how to be alert and in tune with our environment and to discover our urban woodland's biodiversity and cycles while contributing to science.

    Age: Adults (16+) & Seniors.

    ◇ What to Wear & Bring: Although these will be slow-paced hikes, please dress appropriately and consider wearing long pants (for the possibility of ticks, poison ivy etc.) and sturdy hiking shoes. Bring water. Also, know that there is no bathroom in the forest.

    ✉ For any questions, contact Claire at citizenscience@earthwiseaware.org

    ⓘ EwA Participatory Science Programs » www.earthwiseaware.org/citizen-science/

    #nature #ecology #biodiversity #phenology #conservation #citizenScience #science

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  • Bellevue Pond, Pine Hill and the Quarries of Middlesex Fells with Doug Heath

    • July 08, 2022
    • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Bellevue Pond Park Lot on South Border Road, Medford, MA
    • 10
    Register


    Bellevue Pond, Pine Hill and the Quarries of Middlesex Fells with Doug Heath

    Friday, July 8, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

    Difficulty: Moderate

    Appropriate for: All

    Leader: Doug Heath

    About the hike: Join us to hike along centuries-old roads and explore quarries that produced stone used to build the Cradock Bridge over the Mystic River and walkways of the Boston Common. Along the way we will learn about the creation of Bellevue Pond and the building of Wright's Tower on Pine Hill.

    Open to all able to walk on wooded trails. Parts of the tour are not handicap accessible.

    Questions may be addressed to Doug Heath at 781-417-9766 or dougheath28@hotmail.com

    His books, co-authored with Alison Simcox, include Middlesex Fells, The Lost Village of Middlesex Fells, Trail Guide for Virginia Wood and Haywardville, Murder at Breakheart Hill Farm, Breakheart Reservation and Lake Quannapowitt. Copies of Middlesex Fells and The Lost Mill Village of Middlesex Fells may be purchased together for a special discount price of $30.

    Steady rain cancels. Light rain is ok.

    Contact: friends@fells.org, dougheath28@hotmail.com

    Please note that space is strictly limited, and pre-registration will be required for all of our 2022 group events (no on-site registrations will be permitted). 

    IMPORTANT:  PLEASE DO NOT BE A NO-SHOW!!! Our free offerings are frequently waitlisted, so if you cannot attend, please login to your account and cancel your registration, so we can give your spot to another person who wants to participate.

    Your login information was sent to the email you registered with titled "Log-in Information for the Friends of the Fells" from friendsofthefells@wildapricot.org. You can view this video for details on managing and canceling your registration.

    Please reach out to friends@fells.org if you have any questions.

    THANK YOU!

    Show details

  • Summer Forest Explorations with Earthwise Aware

    • July 09, 2022
    • 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Greenwood Park Parking Lot

    Join Claire O'Neill & Kathy McGlathery for a lovely Biodiversity walk in the Fells exploring how seasons pass and shape our plants and wildlife in our beautiful urban forest. We'll enjoy, observe and record the flora and fauna in various locations of the woods, starting from Greenwood parking lot (across Stone Zoo).

    This is part of Earthwise Aware's biodiversity and phenology studies that collect data about the impact of climate change on the synchronicity of fauna and flora phenophases (i.e., observable stages or phases in the annual life cycle of a plant or animal that can be defined by a start and endpoint). This is a great opportunity to learn how to be alert and in tune with our environment, and to discover our urban woodland's biodiversity and cycles.

    Age: Adults (16+) & Seniors / Difficulty: Easy to Moderate 

    ◇ What to Wear & Bring: Consider bringing a hiking pole. Long pants, sturdy hiking shoes, hat. Bring water. Also know that there is no bathroom in the forest...

    ⓘ Details & Registration: Please note that space is strictly limited, and pre-registration will be required for all of our fall group events ⚠ no on-site registrations will be permitted. Register here today » Thanks!

    ✉ For any question, you can contact Claire at citizenscience@earthwiseaware.org

    ⓘ EwA Citizen Science Programs » www.earthwiseaware.org/citizen-science/

    #nature #ecology #biodiversity #phenology #conservation #citizenScience #science

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  • Volunteer Opportunity - Remove Japanese Knotweed!

    • July 09, 2022
    • 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    • Crystal Springs Parking Lot, Lynn Fells Parkway, Stoneham, MA
    • 15
    • 5 registrants
    Register


    Remove Japanese Knotweed

    Please join us to remove Japanese Knotweed from Crystal Springs!  

    Saturday, July 9, 2022, 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

    What will you do?  

    Remove the invasive Japanese Knotweed plant with clippers and bags. Suitable for ages 12 and up.

    Meet at Crystal Springs Parking Lot, Lynn Fells Parkway, Stoneham, MA.

    Please bring your own reusable water bottle and long sleeves and pants to avoid any potential poison ivy exposure. Please feel free to bring clippers and gloves if you have them, but they will also be provided. 

    Questions?

    Please reach out to Community Engagement and Operations Manager, Maddie Morgan at maddie.morgan@fells.org if you have any questions. 

    If you'd like to explore how you can volunteer in other areas, as well, click here to fill out our volunteer application.

    Show details

  • 2022 Trail Adopter Orientation

    • July 10, 2022
    • 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
    • Botume House Visitor Center, 4 Woodland Road, Stoneham, MA
    • 4
    Register

    2022 Trail Adopter Orientation

    Sunday, July 10, 1:00 - 3:00 PM

    Botume House Visitor Center, 4 Woodland Road, Stoneham, MA

    We are excited to announce this year's Trail Adopter Orientation, the first one we've held in-person in a few years!

    Please join us and the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) on Sunday, July 10th from 1:00 - 3:00 pm to learn more about the program, hear updates from the Friends and DCR, and meet your fellow Trail Adopters. A more detailed agenda will be provided in advance of the program.

    The program will be held at the Botume House Visitor Center, 4 Woodland Road, Stoneham, MA. Light refreshments will be provided in addition to some Fells swag.

    Contact: friends@fells.org with any questions.

    Please note that space is strictly limited, and pre-registration will be required for all of our 2022 group events (no on-site registrations will be permitted). 

    IMPORTANT: PLEASE DO NOT BE A NO-SHOW!!! Our free offerings are frequently waitlisted, so if you cannot attend, please login to your account and cancel your registration, so we can give your spot to another person who wants to participate.

    Your login information was sent to the email you registered with titled "Log-in Information for the Friends of the Fells" from friendsofthefells@wildapricot.org. You can view this video for details on managing and canceling your registration.

    Please reach out to friends@fells.org if you have any questions.

    THANK YOU!

    Show details

  • Babes in the Woods Hike

    • July 12, 2022
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Upper Sheepfold Parking Lot, Route 28, Stoneham
    • 20
    Register

    Babes in the Woods Program

    Since 1999, Babes in the Woods is the Friends of the Fells’ free popular weekday family hiking program. Caregivers carrying babies are welcome on these fun guided hikes through the Middlesex Fells Reservation. Babes in the Woods is an adult-paced hike designed for parents who carry their children. These hikes are not recommended for young children who walk.

    We recommend that you bring along snacks and drinks, and make sure to dress for the weather—depending on the season, some trails may be muddy or icy in spots.

    Location changes weekly. 

    Pre-registration is required.

    We'll be splitting into two groups for this hike. The first group can hike maskless. The second group will keep masks on.

    Please note that hikes are not accessible for strollers. 

    For our participants' comfort, we don't allow dogs to hike with us.

    Our walks are cancelled only in case of bad weather: too hot, too cold, or too rainy. 

    Check our Facebook page for the latest details: 
    https://www.facebook.com/BabesinWoodsFells/


    Show details

  • Women's Morning Social Hike

    • July 13, 2022
    • 7:30 AM - 8:45 AM
    • Parking lot on South Border Rd across from Jeremiah Circle (across from 132 South Border Rd, Medford as approx. GPS address)
    • 10
    Register

    Women's Morning Social Hike

    Wednesday, July 13, 7:30 AM - 8:45 AM

    Parking lot on South Border Rd across from Jeremiah Circle (across from 132 South Border Rd, Medford as approx. GPS address). Note - Bellevue Pond/Wright's Tower parking lot gate may not be open first thing in the morning, so please park in this open lot that is 1/4 mile up South Border Rd road from Bellevue.

    Difficulty: Moderate/Difficult

    Appropriate for: Women and Genderqueer Folks

    Leader: Karine Thate

    About Karine: Karine has been a frequent visitor to the Fells for the last 12 years and a volunteer trail adopter with Friends of the Fells for the last five years. She is a university administrator and former science educator who loves being outdoors in all seasons.

    About the hike: What better way to start the day? Join a small group of women for some fresh air, exercise, and conversation. We'll travel a variety of trails in the southern part of the Fells, staying west of I-93, aiming for 60-75 minutes of moderate to brisk walking. Dress for the weather and for exercise. We'll briskly walk mostly fire roads with some rocky/rooty single track trails and hills mixed in.

    Steady rain cancels.  

    Contact:  friends@fells.org

    Please note that space is strictly limited, and pre-registration will be required for all of our 2022 group events (no on-site registrations will be permitted). 

    IMPORTANT:  PLEASE DO NOT BE A NO-SHOW!!! Our free offerings are frequently waitlisted, so if you cannot attend, please login to your account and cancel your registration, so we can give your spot to another person who wants to participate.

    Your login information was sent to the email you registered with titled "Log-in Information for the Friends of the Fells" from friendsofthefells@wildapricot.org. You can view this video for details on managing and canceling your registration.

    Please reach out to friends@fells.org if you have any questions.

    THANK YOU!

    Show details

  • Summer Wildflowers at Virginia Wood with Boot Boutwell

    • July 14, 2022
    • 9:15 AM - 11:30 AM
    • 1 Woodland Road, Stoneham, MA
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    Summer Wildflowers at Virginia Wood with Boot Boutwell

    Thursday, July 14, 9:15 AM - 11:30 AM

    Driveway of 1 Woodland Road, Stoneham, MA (at the intersection of Woodland Rd and Pond St)

    Difficulty: Moderate (Some rocky inclines with uneven surfaces)

    Appropriate for: All

    Leader: Boot Boutwell

    About Boot: Roland “Boot” Boutwell, a freelance itinerant naturalist, has been leading nature walks for The Friends of the Fells for nearly 25 years. He has also led walks and/or taught botany programs for a number of other organizations including The Trustees of Reservations, Arlington Community Education, The Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions, Winchester public schools, Wright-Locke Farm in Winchester, The New England Wild Flower Society and the Massachusetts Audubon Society.

    About the hike: Summer is here. Celebrate the season with a wildflower walk through Virginia Wood. The walk will focus on plant ID as well as fun and interesting natural history. Meet in the driveway of 1 Woodland Road at the intersection of Woodland Road and Pond Street in Stoneham.

    Steady rain cancels.

    Contact: Boot Boutwell (781-729-4712) or friends@fells.org

    Please note that space is strictly limited, and pre-registration will be required for all of our 2022 group events (no on-site registrations will be permitted). 

    IMPORTANT:  PLEASE DO NOT BE A NO-SHOW!!! Our free offerings are frequently waitlisted, so if you cannot attend, please login to your account and cancel your registration, so we can give your spot to another person who wants to participate.

    Your login information was sent to the email you registered with titled "Log-in Information for the Friends of the Fells" from friendsofthefells@wildapricot.org. You can view this video for details on managing and canceling your registration.

    Please reach out to friends@fells.org if you have any questions.

    THANK YOU!

    Show details

  • Heart Healthy Trail Hike

    • July 14, 2022
    • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Greenwood Park Parking Lot, 150 Pond Street, Stoneham, MA 02180
    • 11
    Register

    Heart Healthy Trail Hike

    Thursday, July 14, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

    Greenwood Park Parking Lot, 150 Pond Street, Stoneham

    Difficulty: Moderate/Difficult

    Appropriate for: All

    Leader: Tom Clark

    About Tom: Tom is a long time walker and hiker of the Fells. As a young boy, he peddled through the Fells. Now retired, Tom simply enjoys the Fells' beauty with benefits of exercise. He grew up in Malden and has made Medford his home for the last 45 years. 

    About the hike: Join us for a 3.25 mile hike over hills and rocky, uneven terrain. This trail is labeled heart healthy and is a good aerobic hike. We will also cross through the historic Haywardville, Virginia Wood, and Crystal Springs trail to take in some of the space's history along the way.

    Steady rain cancels.  

    Contact: friends@fells.org

    Please note that space is strictly limited, and pre-registration will be required for all of our 2022 group events (no on-site registrations will be permitted). 

    IMPORTANT:  PLEASE DO NOT BE A NO-SHOW!!! Our free offerings are frequently waitlisted, so if you cannot attend, please login to your account and cancel your registration, so we can give your spot to another person who wants to participate.

    Your login information was sent to the email you registered with titled "Log-in Information for the Friends of the Fells" from friendsofthefells@wildapricot.org. You can view this video for details on managing and canceling your registration.

    Please reach out to friends@fells.org if you have any questions.

    THANK YOU!

    Show details

  • Trash Pick Up with Arc'teryx!

    • July 16, 2022
    • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Flynn Rink, 300 Elm St, Medford, MA
    • 32
    • 8 registrants
    Register


    Trash Pick Up with Arc'teryx!

    Please join Friends of the Fells and our friends at Arc'teryx to remove trash and litter from the Fells!  

    Saturday, July 16, 2022, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

    What will you do?  

    Remove trash around Greenwood Park with gloves and bags. Suitable for ages 8 and up.

    Meet at Flynn Rink, 300 Elm St, Medford, MA. 

    Our friends at Arc'teryx will be providing snacks and offering a free drawing for two of their bags! Don't miss out on this opportunity to be entered in their raffle as an attendee!

    Please bring your own reusable water bottle and long sleeves and pants to avoid any potential poison ivy exposure. Plastic gloves and trash bags will be provided. 

    Questions?

    Please reach out to Community Engagement and Operations Manager, Maddie Morgan at maddie.morgan@fells.org if you have any questions. 

    If you'd like to explore how you can volunteer in other areas, as well, click here to fill out our volunteer application.

    Show details

  • Babes in the Woods Hike

    • July 19, 2022
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Botume House Visitor Center, 4 Woodland Road, Stoneham
    • 20
    Register

    Babes in the Woods Program

    Since 1999, Babes in the Woods is the Friends of the Fells’ free popular weekday family hiking program. Caregivers carrying babies are welcome on these fun guided hikes through the Middlesex Fells Reservation. Babes in the Woods is an adult-paced hike designed for parents who carry their children. These hikes are not recommended for young children who walk.

    We recommend that you bring along snacks and drinks, and make sure to dress for the weather—depending on the season, some trails may be muddy or icy in spots.

    Location changes weekly. 

    Pre-registration is required.

    We'll be splitting into two groups for this hike. The first group can hike maskless. The second group will keep masks on.

    Please note that hikes are not accessible for strollers. 

    For our participants' comfort, we don't allow dogs to hike with us.

    Our walks are cancelled only in case of bad weather: too hot, too cold, or too rainy. 

    Check our Facebook page for the latest details: 
    https://www.facebook.com/BabesinWoodsFells/


    Show details

  • Women's Morning Social Hike

    • July 20, 2022
    • 7:30 AM - 8:45 AM
    • Parking lot on South Border Rd across from Jeremiah Circle (across from 132 South Border Rd, Medford as approx. GPS address)
    • 10
    Register

    Women's Morning Social Hike

    Wednesday, July 20, 7:30 AM - 8:45 AM

    Parking lot on South Border Rd across from Jeremiah Circle (across from 132 South Border Rd, Medford as approx. GPS address). Note - Bellevue Pond/Wright's Tower parking lot gate may not be open first thing in the morning, so please park in this open lot that is 1/4 mile up South Border Rd road from Bellevue.

    Difficulty: Moderate/Difficult

    Appropriate for: Women and Genderqueer Folks

    Leader: Karine Thate

    About Karine: Karine has been a frequent visitor to the Fells for the last 12 years and a volunteer trail adopter with Friends of the Fells for the last five years. She is a university administrator and former science educator who loves being outdoors in all seasons.

    About the hike: What better way to start the day? Join a small group of women for some fresh air, exercise, and conversation. We'll travel a variety of trails in the southern part of the Fells, staying west of I-93, aiming for 60-75 minutes of moderate to brisk walking. Dress for the weather and for exercise. We'll briskly walk mostly fire roads with some rocky/rooty single track trails and hills mixed in.

    Steady rain cancels.  

    Contact:  friends@fells.org

    Please note that space is strictly limited, and pre-registration will be required for all of our 2022 group events (no on-site registrations will be permitted). 

    IMPORTANT:  PLEASE DO NOT BE A NO-SHOW!!! Our free offerings are frequently waitlisted, so if you cannot attend, please login to your account and cancel your registration, so we can give your spot to another person who wants to participate.

    Your login information was sent to the email you registered with titled "Log-in Information for the Friends of the Fells" from friendsofthefells@wildapricot.org. You can view this video for details on managing and canceling your registration.

    Please reach out to friends@fells.org if you have any questions.

    THANK YOU!

    Show details

  • Summer Forest Explorations with Earthwise Aware

    • July 23, 2022
    • 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Sana Access Rd (GPS location in Registration)

    Join brothers and Earthwise Aware (EwA) citizen scientists, Joe and Bill MacIndewar, for a casual walk focusing on observing and recording the incredible biodiversity of the Middlesex Fells Reservation. With these walks and through the EwA photo documentation using the iNaturalist platform, we contribute to biodiversity science while enjoying together the outdoors in this beautiful urban park.

    No expertise required / beginners welcome! You can prepare for the walk by downloading the iNaturalist app and creating a free account. Check out the 'EwA at the Fells' iNaturalist project to see 3000+ species that we documented so far in the park. Send us your iNaturalist username, and you'll get the change to have your observations count in our studies! There is always something new to discover and add to this growing list!

    Age: Adults (16+) & Seniors / Difficulty: Easy. 

    ◇ What to Wear & Bring: Although these will be slow-paced hikes, please dress appropriately and consider wearing long pants (for the possibility of ticks, poison ivy etc.) and sturdy hiking shoes. Bring water. Also, know that there is no bathroom in the forest.

    ⓘ Details & Registration: Please note that space is strictly limited, and pre-registration will be required for all of our fall group events ⚠ no on-site registrations will be permitted. Register here today » Thanks!

    ⓘ Why limit the number of attendees? EwA caps the attendance size of its events so that they remain low impact and ethical for the wildlife and habitats that we document. 

    ✉ For any question, you can contact Claire at citizenscience@earthwiseaware.org

    ⓘ EwA Citizen Science Program » www.earthwiseaware.org/citizen-science/

    #nature #ecology #biodiversity #phenology #conservation #citizenScience #science

    Show details

  • Babes in the Woods Hike

    • July 26, 2022
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Bear Hill Parking Lot, 100 Fallon Rd, Stoneham
    • 20
    Register

    Babes in the Woods Program

    Since 1999, Babes in the Woods is the Friends of the Fells’ free popular weekday family hiking program. Caregivers carrying babies are welcome on these fun guided hikes through the Middlesex Fells Reservation. Babes in the Woods is an adult-paced hike designed for parents who carry their children. These hikes are not recommended for young children who walk.

    We recommend that you bring along snacks and drinks, and make sure to dress for the weather—depending on the season, some trails may be muddy or icy in spots.

    Location changes weekly. 

    Pre-registration is required.

    We'll be splitting into two groups for this hike. The first group can hike maskless. The second group will keep masks on.

    Please note that hikes are not accessible for strollers. 

    For our participants' comfort, we don't allow dogs to hike with us.

    Our walks are cancelled only in case of bad weather: too hot, too cold, or too rainy. 

    Check our Facebook page for the latest details: 
    https://www.facebook.com/BabesinWoodsFells/


    Show details

  • Women's Morning Social Hike

    • July 27, 2022
    • 7:30 AM - 8:45 AM
    • Parking lot on South Border Rd across from Jeremiah Circle (across from 132 South Border Rd, Medford as approx. GPS address)
    • 10
    Register

    Women's Morning Social Hike

    Wednesday, July 27, 7:30 AM - 8:45 AM

    Parking lot on South Border Rd across from Jeremiah Circle (across from 132 South Border Rd, Medford as approx. GPS address). Note - Bellevue Pond/Wright's Tower parking lot gate may not be open first thing in the morning, so please park in this open lot that is 1/4 mile up South Border Rd road from Bellevue.

    Difficulty: Moderate/Difficult

    Appropriate for: Women and Genderqueer Folks

    Leader: Karine Thate

    About Karine: Karine has been a frequent visitor to the Fells for the last 12 years and a volunteer trail adopter with Friends of the Fells for the last five years. She is a university administrator and former science educator who loves being outdoors in all seasons.

    About the hike: What better way to start the day? Join a small group of women for some fresh air, exercise, and conversation. We'll travel a variety of trails in the southern part of the Fells, staying west of I-93, aiming for 60-75 minutes of moderate to brisk walking. Dress for the weather and for exercise. We'll briskly walk mostly fire roads with some rocky/rooty single track trails and hills mixed in.

    Steady rain cancels.  

    Contact:  friends@fells.org

    Please note that space is strictly limited, and pre-registration will be required for all of our 2022 group events (no on-site registrations will be permitted). 

    IMPORTANT:  PLEASE DO NOT BE A NO-SHOW!!! Our free offerings are frequently waitlisted, so if you cannot attend, please login to your account and cancel your registration, so we can give your spot to another person who wants to participate.

    Your login information was sent to the email you registered with titled "Log-in Information for the Friends of the Fells" from friendsofthefells@wildapricot.org. You can view this video for details on managing and canceling your registration.

    Please reach out to friends@fells.org if you have any questions.

    THANK YOU!

    Show details

  • Bellevue Pond In Flower with Boot Boutwell

    • July 27, 2022
    • 9:15 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Bellevue Pond Parking Lot on South Border Road, Medford, MA
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    Bellevue Pond In Flower with Boot Boutwell

    Wednesday, July 27, 9:15 AM - 11:30 AM

    Bellevue Pond Parking Lot on South Border Road, Medford, MA

    Difficulty: Moderate (Some rocky inclines with uneven surfaces)

    Appropriate for: All

    Leader: Boot Boutwell

    About Boot: Roland “Boot” Boutwell, a freelance itinerant naturalist, has been leading nature walks for The Friends of the Fells for nearly 25 years. He has also led walks and/or taught botany programs for a number of other organizations including The Trustees of Reservations, Arlington Community Education, The Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions, Winchester public schools, Wright-Locke Farm in Winchester, The New England Wild Flower Society and the Massachusetts Audubon Society.

    About the hike: It’s mid-summer and the area around Bellevue Pond is in full flower. We’ll do a circuit of Bellevue Pond and also head up to the top of Pine Hill to enjoy the wonderful view of Boston and also check out some upland wildflowers. The walk will focus on plant ID as well as fun and interesting natural history about the plants we see. Meet at the Bellevue Pond Parking Lot on South Border Road in Medford. PARKING CAN BE TIGHT - ARRIVE EARLY.

    Steady rain cancels.

    Contact: Boot Boutwell (781-729-4712) or friends@fells.org

    Please note that space is strictly limited, and pre-registration will be required for all of our 2022 group events (no on-site registrations will be permitted). 

    IMPORTANT:  PLEASE DO NOT BE A NO-SHOW!!! Our free offerings are frequently waitlisted, so if you cannot attend, please login to your account and cancel your registration, so we can give your spot to another person who wants to participate.

    Your login information was sent to the email you registered with titled "Log-in Information for the Friends of the Fells" from friendsofthefells@wildapricot.org. You can view this video for details on managing and canceling your registration.

    Please reach out to friends@fells.org if you have any questions.

    THANK YOU!

    Show details

  • Social Hike for Women, Trans & Queer People

    • July 30, 2022
    • 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM
    • Flynn Rink, 300 Elm St, Medford, MA
    • 14
    Register

    Social Hike for Women, Trans & Queer People

    Saturday, July 30, 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM

    Flynn Rink, 300 Elm St, Medford, MA

    Difficulty: Moderate

    Appropriate for: Anyone identifying as a Woman, Trans, or Queer

    Hike Leader: Sarah Ernst-Edwards

    About Sarah: Sarah has been enjoying Fells hiking since she moved to Boston in the early 2000s. Living nearby for the past seven years has allowed her to really explore the paths and fire roads. She'd love to share these trails with others!

    About the hike: Join Sarah to head West on the Cross Fells Trail and then catch up with some of the Fire Roads around the Reservoir. The Cross Fells portion has some rocky up and downs but the Fire Roads are easier walking.

    Steady rain or heavy snow cancels.  

    Contact:  friends@fells.org

    Please note that space is strictly limited, and pre-registration will be required for all of our 2022 group events (no on-site registrations will be permitted). 

    IMPORTANT:  PLEASE DO NOT BE A NO-SHOW!!! Our free offerings are frequently waitlisted, so if you cannot attend, please login to your account and cancel your registration, so we can give your spot to another person who wants to participate.

    Your login information was sent to the email you registered with titled "Log-in Information for the Friends of the Fells" from friendsofthefells@wildapricot.org. You can view this video for details on managing and canceling your registration.

    Please reach out to friends@fells.org if you have any questions.

    THANK YOU!

    Show details

  • Babes in the Woods Hike

    • August 02, 2022
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Gate 16, near 83 Hillcrest Parkway, Winchester
    • 20
    Register

    Babes in the Woods Program

    Since 1999, Babes in the Woods is the Friends of the Fells’ free popular weekday family hiking program. Caregivers carrying babies are welcome on these fun guided hikes through the Middlesex Fells Reservation. Babes in the Woods is an adult-paced hike designed for parents who carry their children. These hikes are not recommended for young children who walk.

    We recommend that you bring along snacks and drinks, and make sure to dress for the weather—depending on the season, some trails may be muddy or icy in spots.

    Location changes weekly. 

    Pre-registration is now required. 

    Everyone has to wear a mask (except children under 2) and maintain 6 feet away from each other. 

    Hikers must move to the side of the path to allow others to pass.

    Please note that hikes are not accessible for strollers. 

    For our participants' comfort, we don't allow dogs to hike with us.

    Our walks are cancelled only if it is too hot, too cold, or raining too hard. 

    Check our Facebook page for the latest details: 
    https://www.facebook.com/BabesinWoodsFells/


    Show details

  • Babes in the Woods Hike

    • August 09, 2022
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Flynn Rink, 300 Elm St, Medford, MA 02155, USA
    • 20
    Register

    Babes in the Woods Program

    Since 1999, Babes in the Woods is the Friends of the Fells’ free popular weekday family hiking program. Caregivers carrying babies are welcome on these fun guided hikes through the Middlesex Fells Reservation. Babes in the Woods is an adult-paced hike designed for parents who carry their children. These hikes are not recommended for young children who walk.

    We recommend that you bring along snacks and drinks, and make sure to dress for the weather—depending on the season, some trails may be muddy or icy in spots.

    Location changes weekly. 

    Pre-registration is required.

    We'll be splitting into two groups for this hike. The first group can hike maskless. The second group will keep masks on.

    Please note that hikes are not accessible for strollers. 

    For our participants' comfort, we don't allow dogs to hike with us.

    Our walks are cancelled only in case of bad weather: too hot, too cold, or too rainy. 

    Check our Facebook page for the latest details: 
    https://www.facebook.com/BabesinWoodsFells/


    Show details

  • Plant & Wildlife Monitoring with Earthwise Aware

    • August 12, 2022
    • 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Long Pond Parking Lot

    The Earthwise Aware's naturalist team introduces how to document the Fells' ecological communities at risk in a fast-changing world. Join us!

    This is an orientation field session that introduces the EwA science program and the team that makes it happen. You will help and record bird movement, observe seasonal phases of fauna and flora, monitor bio-pollution, and map habitat fragmentation. It's also a chance to learn new skills and join the team & effort ツ

    ⓘ Details & Registration: Please note that space is strictly limited, and pre-registration are required for all of our group events ⚠ no on-site registrations will be permitted. Register here today » Thanks!

    Hiking pace: Moderate-to-fast when possible–yet very quietly–on the lookout for any kind of signs. Wear long pants and sturdy boots. This is a great opportunity to learn how to be alert and in tune with our environment and to discover our urban woodland's biodiversity and cycles while contributing to science.

    Age: Adults (16+) & Seniors.

    ◇ What to Wear & Bring: Although these will be slow-paced hikes, please dress appropriately and consider wearing long pants (for the possibility of ticks, poison ivy etc.) and sturdy hiking shoes. Bring water. Also, know that there is no bathroom in the forest.

    ✉ For any questions, contact Claire at citizenscience@earthwiseaware.org

    ⓘ EwA Participatory Science Programs » www.earthwiseaware.org/citizen-science/

    #nature #ecology #biodiversity #phenology #conservation #citizenScience #science

    Show details

  • Summer Forest Explorations with Earthwise Aware

    • August 13, 2022
    • 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Greenwood Park Parking Lot

    Join Claire O'Neill & Kathy McGlathery for a lovely Biodiversity walk in the Fells exploring how seasons pass and shape our plants and wildlife in our beautiful urban forest. We'll enjoy, observe and record the flora and fauna in various locations of the woods, starting from Greenwood parking lot (across Stone Zoo).

    This is part of Earthwise Aware's biodiversity and phenology studies that collect data about the impact of climate change on the synchronicity of fauna and flora phenophases (i.e., observable stages or phases in the annual life cycle of a plant or animal that can be defined by a start and endpoint). This is a great opportunity to learn how to be alert and in tune with our environment, and to discover our urban woodland's biodiversity and cycles.

    Age: Adults (16+) & Seniors / Difficulty: Easy to Moderate 

    ◇ What to Wear & Bring: Consider bringing a hiking pole. Long pants, sturdy hiking shoes, hat. Bring water. Also know that there is no bathroom in the forest...

    ⓘ Details & Registration: Please note that space is strictly limited, and pre-registration will be required for all of our fall group events ⚠ no on-site registrations will be permitted. Register here today » Thanks!

    ✉ For any question, you can contact Claire at citizenscience@earthwiseaware.org

    ⓘ EwA Citizen Science Programs » www.earthwiseaware.org/citizen-science/

    #nature #ecology #biodiversity #phenology #conservation #citizenScience #science

    Show details

  • Babes in the Woods Hike

    • August 16, 2022
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Long Pond Parking Lot, 524-530 S Border Rd, Winchester.
    • 20
    Register

    Babes in the Woods Program

    Since 1999, Babes in the Woods is the Friends of the Fells’ free popular weekday family hiking program. Caregivers carrying babies are welcome on these fun guided hikes through the Middlesex Fells Reservation. Babes in the Woods is an adult-paced hike designed for parents who carry their children. These hikes are not recommended for young children who walk.

    We recommend that you bring along snacks and drinks, and make sure to dress for the weather—depending on the season, some trails may be muddy or icy in spots.

    Location changes weekly. 

    Pre-registration is required.

    We'll be splitting into two groups for this hike. The first group can hike maskless. The second group will keep masks on.

    Please note that hikes are not accessible for strollers. 

    For our participants' comfort, we don't allow dogs to hike with us.

    Our walks are cancelled only in case of bad weather: too hot, too cold, or too rainy. 

    Check our Facebook page for the latest details: 
    https://www.facebook.com/BabesinWoodsFells/


    Show details

  • Babes in the Woods Hike

    • August 23, 2022
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Greenwood Park Parking Lot 176 Pond St Stoneham, MA 02180
    • 20
    Register

    Babes in the Woods Program

    Since 1999, Babes in the Woods is the Friends of the Fells’ free popular weekday family hiking program. Caregivers carrying babies are welcome on these fun guided hikes through the Middlesex Fells Reservation. Babes in the Woods is an adult-paced hike designed for parents who carry their children. These hikes are not recommended for young children who walk.

    We recommend that you bring along snacks and drinks, and make sure to dress for the weather—depending on the season, some trails may be muddy or icy in spots.

    Location changes weekly. 

    Pre-registration is required.

    We'll be splitting into two groups for this hike. The first group can hike maskless. The second group will keep masks on.

    Please note that hikes are not accessible for strollers. 

    For our participants' comfort, we don't allow dogs to hike with us.

    Our walks are cancelled only in case of bad weather: too hot, too cold, or too rainy. 

    Check our Facebook page for the latest details: 
    https://www.facebook.com/BabesinWoodsFells/


    Show details

  • Summer Forest Explorations with Earthwise Aware

    • August 27, 2022
    • 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Sana Access Rd (GPS location in Registration)

    Join brothers and Earthwise Aware (EwA) citizen scientists, Joe and Bill MacIndewar, for a casual walk focusing on observing and recording the incredible biodiversity of the Middlesex Fells Reservation. With these walks and through the EwA photo documentation using the iNaturalist platform, we contribute to biodiversity science while enjoying together the outdoors in this beautiful urban park.

    No expertise required / beginners welcome! You can prepare for the walk by downloading the iNaturalist app and creating a free account. Check out the 'EwA at the Fells' iNaturalist project to see 3000+ species that we documented so far in the park. Send us your iNaturalist username, and you'll get the change to have your observations count in our studies! There is always something new to discover and add to this growing list!

    Age: Adults (16+) & Seniors / Difficulty: Easy. 

    ◇ What to Wear & Bring: Although these will be slow-paced hikes, please dress appropriately and consider wearing long pants (for the possibility of ticks, poison ivy etc.) and sturdy hiking shoes. Bring water. Also, know that there is no bathroom in the forest.

    ⓘ Details & Registration: Please note that space is strictly limited, and pre-registration will be required for all of our fall group events ⚠ no on-site registrations will be permitted. Register here today » Thanks!

    ⓘ Why limit the number of attendees? EwA caps the attendance size of its events so that they remain low impact and ethical for the wildlife and habitats that we document. 

    ✉ For any question, you can contact Claire at citizenscience@earthwiseaware.org

    ⓘ EwA Citizen Science Program » www.earthwiseaware.org/citizen-science/

    #nature #ecology #biodiversity #phenology #conservation #citizenScience #science

    Show details

  • Babes in the Woods Hike

    • August 30, 2022
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Upper Sheepfold Parking Lot, Route 28, Stoneham
    • 20
    Register

    Babes in the Woods Program

    Since 1999, Babes in the Woods is the Friends of the Fells’ free popular weekday family hiking program. Caregivers carrying babies are welcome on these fun guided hikes through the Middlesex Fells Reservation. Babes in the Woods is an adult-paced hike designed for parents who carry their children. These hikes are not recommended for young children who walk.

    We recommend that you bring along snacks and drinks, and make sure to dress for the weather—depending on the season, some trails may be muddy or icy in spots.

    Location changes weekly. 

    Pre-registration is required.

    We'll be splitting into two groups for this hike. The first group can hike maskless. The second group will keep masks on.

    Please note that hikes are not accessible for strollers. 

    For our participants' comfort, we don't allow dogs to hike with us.

    Our walks are cancelled only in case of bad weather: too hot, too cold, or too rainy. 

    Check our Facebook page for the latest details: 
    https://www.facebook.com/BabesinWoodsFells/


    Show details

  • Plant & Wildlife Monitoring with Earthwise Aware

    • September 09, 2022
    • 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Long Pond Parking Lot

    The Earthwise Aware's naturalist team introduces how to document the Fells' ecological communities at risk in a fast-changing world. Join us!

    This is an orientation field session that introduces the EwA science program and the team that makes it happen. You will help and record bird movement, observe seasonal phases of fauna and flora, monitor bio-pollution, and map habitat fragmentation. It's also a chance to learn new skills and join the team & effort ツ

    ⓘ Details & Registration: Please note that space is strictly limited, and pre-registration are required for all of our group events ⚠ no on-site registrations will be permitted. Register here today » Thanks!

    Hiking pace: Moderate-to-fast when possible–yet very quietly–on the lookout for any kind of signs. Wear long pants and sturdy boots. This is a great opportunity to learn how to be alert and in tune with our environment and to discover our urban woodland's biodiversity and cycles while contributing to science.

    Age: Adults (16+) & Seniors.

    ◇ What to Wear & Bring: Although these will be slow-paced hikes, please dress appropriately and consider wearing long pants (for the possibility of ticks, poison ivy etc.) and sturdy hiking shoes. Bring water. Also, know that there is no bathroom in the forest.

    ✉ For any questions, contact Claire at citizenscience@earthwiseaware.org

    ⓘ EwA Participatory Science Programs » www.earthwiseaware.org/citizen-science/

    #nature #ecology #biodiversity #phenology #conservation #citizenScience #science

    Show details

  • Summer Forest Explorations with Earthwise Aware

    • September 24, 2022
    • 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Sana Access Rd (GPS location in Registration)

    Join brothers and Earthwise Aware (EwA) citizen scientists, Joe and Bill MacIndewar, for a casual walk focusing on observing and recording the incredible biodiversity of the Middlesex Fells Reservation. With these walks and through the EwA photo documentation using the iNaturalist platform, we contribute to biodiversity science while enjoying together the outdoors in this beautiful urban park.

    No expertise required / beginners welcome! You can prepare for the walk by downloading the iNaturalist app and creating a free account. Check out the 'EwA at the Fells' iNaturalist project to see 3000+ species that we documented so far in the park. Send us your iNaturalist username, and you'll get the change to have your observations count in our studies! There is always something new to discover and add to this growing list!

    Age: Adults (16+) & Seniors / Difficulty: Easy. 

    ◇ What to Wear & Bring: Although these will be slow-paced hikes, please dress appropriately and consider wearing long pants (for the possibility of ticks, poison ivy etc.) and sturdy hiking shoes. Bring water. Also, know that there is no bathroom in the forest.

    ⓘ Details & Registration: Please note that space is strictly limited, and pre-registration will be required for all of our fall group events ⚠ no on-site registrations will be permitted. Register here today » Thanks!

    ⓘ Why limit the number of attendees? EwA caps the attendance size of its events so that they remain low impact and ethical for the wildlife and habitats that we document. 

    ✉ For any question, you can contact Claire at citizenscience@earthwiseaware.org

    ⓘ EwA Citizen Science Program » www.earthwiseaware.org/citizen-science/

    #nature #ecology #biodiversity #phenology #conservation #citizenScience #science

    Show details

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