Blue Hills 125-Mile Retrospective

I wanted to take a moment to look at the map and reflect on the 125-miler journey. Came up with some questions to ask myself. Here it is!

Final Stats:

# of Hikes: 39

Miles Hiked: 190.14

Elevation Hiked: 21,647

What were your favorite trail(s) hiked?

Trail over Hancock Hill between 1170 and 1201.

I sum this one up in the "favorite view" section, but just the view tied with how it's a much less traveled trail make it so incredible.

Eustis Trail

I truly do not remember why I liked this trail, but I remember saying "good job Eustis" in my head while hiking it. From what I remember, it was just a gentle walk in the woods. The spirit of Eustis lives on!

Ponkapoag Boardwalk

This one has to be earned. I've started this trail three times, but only completed once. The first time was in the summer after a few storms, so it was overgrown and flooded right from the start. The second time I made it 2/3 of the boardwalk until I hit the infamous sunken section, and since I didn't have my waterproof boots on, and it was December, I bailed again. FINALLY, later in the winter word got around that the pond was finally frozen through and it was time! The whole trail was beautiful and mystical, and even more so now that it was frozen over. I cannot wait until next winter to do it again!

Buck Hill between 2182 and 2165

Buck Hill undoubtedly has some of the best views from the reservation, and rightfully so! The Skyline trail always had this alpine-zone feel to it, like when you break above treeline in the whites. Then I hiked up the north side of the hill and fell even more in love. Again, a less traveled route leading to amazing views. 

Trail down Kitchamaking Hill (3085)

This was a trail where I constantly thought "there's no way I'm still on the trail." It was down scrubby-piney rocks, but had a certain rugged feel that you don't get too often in SE Mass. It also appears this was a part of the abandoned Great Dome Trail.

Spur trail around 3121

This is a super short trail that gets up and close to the Great Cedar Swamp, formerly apart of the abandoned Great Dome Trail, and for just a second it transports you to a different world. The mood changes entirely and it's so beautiful. Even some old bazes!

CCC Camp 

So often I find myself basing how much I like a trail on the views, but the CCC Camp area had a ton of history to be discovered that I supplied a one-of-a-kind experience in the reservation.

Trails around the Quarries

This one is going to come up a lot. The quarries (specifically the actual quarries area, not the whole Quincy Quarries/4000s section) are so cool and pack so much history and wonder within them. The views from the tops are one of a kind. The star comes because of the disaster that is the trail network in this area, which I'll touch on later. 

What were your least favorite trail(s) hiked?

Sawcut Notch from 4083 to Little Dome

Wet. Wet. Wet. Never dry. Buggy. Wet. That's all.

Hemlock Path at I-93

Cool, but scary. The trail here is well under water, so there is a "bushwhack" trail that goes through the fence, incredibly close to I-93, and then back through the fence into the reservation. It was cool, but too close to the highway for my comfort.

 

Pipe Line (HQ Path north of Chickatawbut Rd. and between 3022 and 3013, specifically)

WET. SQUISHY. Usually overgrown too. Not fun.

 

Field Path

Someone on Facebook said they'd bring a machete next time they hiked this trail and I firmly agree. Overgrown with thorns. 

Trails around the Quarries*

The trail system here is just a mess. There are unmapped trails everywhere, mapped ones are unrecognizable and/or covered in thorns, and it's near impossible to find the Quarries Footpath from the Ricciuti Drive entrance. I finished by challenge by hiking the Quarries Footpath from the Wampatuck Rd. side and was met with the same - overgrown and unmapped trails galore, and no discernable trail continuation. I hope someday this area gets more attention because it's such a cool area that is so frustrating to navigate. 

What was your overall favorite hike?

I have two answers for this: my default favorite has to be the skyline trail traverse. It's a lot of work for a lot of reward, and just a classic trail. There are so many other gems in this park, but none beat the classic Skyline Trail. That being said, in this journey specifically, hiking the frozen Ponkapoag Boardwalk was one of the coolest things. The scenery is like no other, and when it's frozen you just walk right onto the pond. It was just beautiful. 

What was your least favorite hike?

My least favorite during this journey will have to be the slushy hike I did around the crags this past winter. 3-6 inches of snow, all pure slush. 3+ miles of heavy steps and sliding around. I'm sure the trails there are lovely, but that day was rough.

What was your favorite view?

The view off the ridge of Hancock Hill is, in my opinion, the best view in the whole reservation. Sure, the Eliot Tower provides a panorama and Buck Hill makes you feel like you're up in the Alpine Zone, but this view off the beaten path is just mesmerizing. You get Boston, the ocean, and neighboring hills, all without the crowds of the Skyline Trail. Only caveat is that I still have yet to figure out where the trail connects to 1201. Usually end up rock climbing/bushwhacking until I land on the Hancock Hill Path.

What were some "rite of passage" trails?

Neoponset River Trail

For me, this is an honorary mention. I had a very nice and easy hike on this trail, but according to others' reports, it was an anomaly. For me, the path was dry and narrow with only a couple slightly sketchy water crossings, but for others they've had to trek through a jungle of weeds and deal with mud and brutal crossings. Grateful for my experience!

Ponkapoag Boardwalk

Same as above. You either need to live with wet feet, fishing boots, or wait until the water's frozen. Worth the wait!

Loop around Great Cedar Swamp (I-93)

Same as above - The trails surrounding the Great Cedar Swamp are very cool and scenic, but that stretch that parallels I-93 is scary and worth being considered a rite of passage. 

Trails around the Quarries

See above :-). Frustrating, yet rewarding. I feel proud that I eventually (think) I found and connected all of the trails. 

Other Thoughts?

Overall, I loved this journey. I have a deeper connection with the reservation and a much stronger knowledge of everything. I am grateful for the community on Facebook for being available to answer questions and share victories. I'm excited to start exploring again to see what I remember, see what I forgot, see what's stayed the same, and to see what has changed!

Final Blue Hills Reservation Trails (Blue Hills Reservation)

Final Blue Hills Reservation Trails (Blue Hills Reservation)

Hike Type: Multiple Hikes
Distance: 4.09 miles
Elevation: 686 feet
Time: 1 hours, 38 minutes
Hiking Challenges: Blue Hills 125-Mile Challenge; 52 Hike Challenge

*NOTE: These stats are the total of the three seperate hikes I did to complete this challenge.*

*NOTE2.0: There will be a seperate post to summarize and reflect upon this challenge.*

Hike #1: 6900 to 6896 Loop

The shortest hike of the afternoon. I needed the small spur trail from 6896 near Little Blue Hill, which I had missed a long time ago during the beginning of my Blue Hills hiking. I parked at the Park and Ride which was a very interesting subculture on it's own. Some people working on their cars, others chit chatting, some large vans, and random people seemingly aimlessly wandering the unmarked trails... definitely interesting. I walked into the woods at 6900 and turned left to meet up with the Skyline Trail, which climbed to the intersection I needed. I had to do a bit of wandering since this trail was very difficult to find - but it seems that someone marked the path with orange tape tied to a few trees which was helpful. The path led to the meadow/pond marked in the map, and there is a whole network of unmapped trails back there that allowed me to turn this into a loop. Hike #1 done!

Hike #2: Houghton's Hill & Raccoon Hollow

This was going to be the biggest hike of the day. I needed to hike the lower half of the Raccoon Hollow Path and the two trails that intersect at 1151. I parked at Houghton's Pond and followed the HQ Path, crossed the road, and starting to hike up Houghton's Hill on the south Skyline Trail. This stretch has become more or less of a physical fittness test for me. I've been up it dozens of times, all at different levels of "hiking fittness." I am always winded, but sometimes I have been on death's porch and other times I have made it up without stopping. Since I only stopped twice for muscles (I'm still a bit sore from all my hiking last weekend), I'll take it as a win!

At the top of Houghton's Hill, I turned left and left again at the almost hidden intersection at 1156. I hiked 1156 to 1151, turned left, turned right onto the road, turned right onto the other end of the trail, and back at 1151 turned left again to complete this "loop." I cut through Houghton Path to get to Raccoon Hollow Path, hiked it to Five Corners, took Five Corners to Wolcott Path, and took Wolcott Path down to park headquarters. This stretch was gentle and cathartic, and I saw a massive deer that was just checking me out. I crossed the road, followed Bugbee Path, turned right onto the paved path, and made my way back to the parking lot. Only one trail left - the infamous Quarries Footpath!

Hike #3: Quarries Footpath from 4223

"The Final Countdown" plays in my head as I park my car right at 4223 (which was hidden by trees, naturally). Poetically speaking, one of my first hikes in the Blue Hills involved me getting lose in the Quarries section. I was aimlessly exploring, made it to the scenic, littered area, and then proceeded to have no clue where I was for quite some time. When I hiked the quarries with the intent of hitting all the trails, the same thing quite literally happened to me. I never found the bottom half of the Quarries Footpath in my previous hikes, so that's what landed me here today for my final hike!

The hike opens up to a network of trails that don't exist on current maps. I did my best to follow the contour of the map and the gps tract on AllTrails, which brought me to a grassy, mostly overgrown section with a couple of blowdowns. I quickly landed at the base of a stack of rocks/the quarry/slabs/whatever the granite mass is. At this point I zoomed all the way in on AllTrails and did my best. I ended up climbing up the rocks which led to a suprisingly beautiful rocky area that was reminiscent of a mountain summit. This area looked vaugely familiar, just like the spot I kept getting lost at. I continued to follow the track, and landed in a very familiar area (I think)! I accepted this as officially connecting the dots, and then I got lost again. Very grateful for GPS tracking. I made my way back down, had some peanut butter crackers to celebrate and made my way home!

Blue Hills Reservation Map

Photo Album

Ponkapoag East via Fisherman's Beach (Blue Hills Reservation)

Ponkapoag East via Fisherman's Beach (Blue Hills Reservation)

Hike Type: Spaghetti-Lolloipop
Distance: 8.7 miles
Elevation: 413 feet
Time: 3 hours, 7 minutes
Hiking Challenges: 52 Hike Challenge; Blue Hills 125-Mile Challenge

The Hike

Longest hike in a while! I started hiking again post-COVID last week, and I really am starting to feel like I'm getting back to normal again. The extra liter of water I'm now carrying around tells me otherwise, but I'm choosing to ignore that. I have been dreading this hike just due to it's proximity to Randolph, where I used to work. I knew the best parking was at the Donovan School, but I did not feel comfortable parking there, so I parked at Fisherman's Beach and added the extra ~1.75ish miles round trip.

 

The Green dot trail around Ponkapoag was lovely as always, and when I continued on the Pipe Line towards 5395 it got a little wet and grassy, but still very scenic. A short walk in the woods led to the bridge that crosses 24, and the next thing I knew I was in uncharted territory (for me). I first did the section of Pipeline that connects 5413 to 24, and it was pretty gross. Swampy, grassy, buggy, and there was a rotting squirrel carcass. Thankfully this turned out to be the worst of the trails on this side. 

 

From there I followed the footpath west of the Pipeline which turned out to be quite lovely, and turned left at the junction to get the short spur-path towards 24. I then realized that "short spur path" was the rest of the Smith Trail and it fully connected to 5425, so I turned around when I felt it was appropriate. I wonder why that section isn't mapped (this turned out to be a theme of my hike today)?

 

Back at the Pipeline I had a beautiful walk to the terminus at I-93, then hiked the Smith Trail. The Smith Trail came to an unmapped junction with one clear path and one overgrown path. The overgrown one was the Smith Path. After getting a little bloody, I turned around and checked AllTrails. This is one instance where AllTrails was excellent - it showed that the more defined path actually connected to the Middle Road, so I wouldn't have to backtrack at all! At the corner of unmapped path and Middle Street was a section of burnt trail - I imagine it's from the past few weeks since it smelled fresh.

 

Middle road was woodsy and easy. I returned to the PipeLine and turned at 5421 for some more easy hiking and discovering unmapped trails. I turned around at 5423 to finish out the Pipe Line. From there I turned at 5414 to hike the trails near Pasture Road. Lots of horse poop, two overgrown baseball fields, and two horses and riders that were adding sticks/limbs/logs to the trail for "cross country practice"... not sure what that meant but I hope they cleaned it up when they were done.

 

Back at 5414, I was feeling tired but really wanted to finish out these trails. I continued towards Meadow Road, passed the Donovan School, and tooked another unmapped trail to connect to the parallel footpath. The next footpath that leads towards Fawn Circle ended up near someone's backyard, so I cut that one short and hit up what I believe to be primarily mountain biking trails next. There were more unmapped trails here, so I did my best.

 

The return trip wasn't too bad, but I was sure feeling tired. My feet were starting to form blisters, but I was so happy to be almost done! I have one more hike around Houghton's Hill that I need to do, and then a few very short "clean-up" hikes to finish the challenge!

Step-By-Step

• Park at Fisherman's Beach
• At 5321, turn right onto Green-dot Acton Path.
• At 5355, continue straight onto Pipe Line (do not follow Green dot). 
• At 5395, turn left onto unnamed path.
• At pavement, turn right to cross MA-24.
• At 5413, turn right to hike short, overgrown section of Pipeline, return.
• Back at 5413, head north and turn left onto unnamed path.
• At next junction, hike for a short distance, return (this path fully connects to the Smith Trail at 5425, however I only hiked a short distance to cover what is officially on the map). 
• At same junction, continue onward to 5422.
• At 5422, turn left onto Pipe Line. 
• At 5425, continue to terminus at I-93, return and turn onto Smith Trail. 
• At next junction, turn left for short distance to continue on overgrown Smith Trail, return.
• Back at junction, continue on distinct footpath (not on map) that will connect to Middle Street/Middle Road.
• Cross Middle Street, enter Middle Road.
• Hike Middle Road until 5422.
• At 5422, turn left to Pipe Line.
• At 5421, hike path to 5423 and turn around (make sure to stay on path, there are unmarked/unmapped trails in this area).
• Back at 5421, turn left to continue on Pipe Line.
• At 5413, turn left towards 5414.
• At 5414, turn left to Pasture Road. 
• Hike Trails around Pasture Road and return to 5414.
• Back at 5414, turn left onto Meadow Road.
• Hike Meadow Road to 5420.
• Just before 5420, there is an unmarked/unmapped path connecting to the parallel footpath, take this.
• Hike remaining trails around the west side of Meadow Road.
• Return back to car via MA-24 bridge, 5395, and green-dot trail.

Blue Hills Reservation Map

Photo Album

Five Corners, Raccoon Hollow, Skyline, Wildcat Notch (Blue Hills Reservation)

Five Corners, Raccoon Hollow, Skyline, Wildcat Notch (Blue Hills Reservation)

Hike Type: Spaghetti Loop
Distance: 3.7 miles
Elevation: 715 feet
Time: 1 hour, 32 minutes
Hiking Challenges: 52 Hike Challenge; Blue Hills 125-Mile Challenge

The Hike

 Second post-COVID hike and already starting to feel better! Planned to take it easy and simple today but when I realized how close I was to other trails that I needed, I created a whole mess of a hike, but enjoyed it! Started at the designated parking spot on the map just west of the stop sign on Blue Hill River Road and got started on the Five Corners Path. I did a bunch of wiggling in this section, focusing on the Half Way Path and the paths between Raccoon Hollow and Five Corners, which were clearly seldom hiked and overgrown. 

After my wiggling I was able to keep it simple and took the green-dot trail to the red-dot trail (the easy way up big blue) to enjoy a mostly-empty summit area. I usually skip the Eliot Tower since it's usually crowded, but nobody was up! To my surprise, enjoyment, and dismay I saw smoke from one of the wildfires that burned in the past few weeks. It was definitely cool but also uneasy. The spring leaves were starting to reach their final form of "summer green," and the weather was absolutely lovely. 

I kept it simple coming down by following Skyline South and then Wildcat Notch, did a few of the side trails/triangles, and made it back to the car! My biggest thought during this hike was "the bugs are back" - sung to the tune of "The Boys Are Back" from the hit movie "High School Musical 3." Starting to near the end of my 125-Mile club journey (even though I'm close to 200 miles total). 

Step-By-Step

• Park at pull-off lot on Blue Hill River Road, East of Brookwood Farm near Carisbrooke Road.
• Three trails leave this parking lot, use the middle one located on the west side.
• Ascend to first junction, hike back down to the parking lot and retrace steps back up.
• Hike to 1110 and turn left onto Half Way Path.
• At 1093, turn around and hike Half Way Path through 1110, through Raccoon Hollow Path, and stop at 1143.
• At 1143, turn right onto Houghton Path.
• At next junction, turn right onto unnamed path.
• At junction with Raccoon Hollow Path, continue straight on unnamed path.
• At next junction, hike on overgrown path towards road, return.
• Back at the junction, continue straight on unnamed path up the hill, which returns to the first intersection of this hike. with Five Corners Path.
• At Five Corners Path, hike towards 1110.
• At the junction with Skyline Trail, continue straight.
• At 1120, turn left onto Raccoon Hollow Path. 
• At 1092, Veer left onto unmarked Raccoon Hollow Path (not green, not blue - no markings).
• At 1082, continue up hill on red-dot Raccoon Hollow Path towards the summit of Great Blue Hill.
• Hike Towards 1066 and turn onto Skyline Trail South.
• At 1083, continue on Skyline Trail South.
• When the Skyline Trail has a sharp turn, continue down the hill, away from the Skyline Trail, along the Wildcat Notch Path. 
• At 1093, continue straight on Wildcat Notch Path.
• At 1086, turn right on to Accord Path.
• At 1081, turn right onto Halfway Path.
• At 1093, turn right back onto Wildcat Notch Path.
• At final junction, hike to the terminus of Wildcat Notch Path away from the parking area.
• Turn around, and hike back to the parking area.

Blue Hills Reservation Map

Photo Album

Red Dot, Eliot Circle, Skyline South, Brookwood, Accord Path (Blue Hills Reservation)

Red Dot, Elliot Circle, Skyline South, Brookwood, Accord Path (Blue Hills Reservation)

Hike Type: Loop
Distance: 3.2 miles
Elevation: 591 feet
Time: 1 hour, 20 minutes
Hiking Challenges: 52 Hike Challenge; Blue Hills 125-Mile Challenge

The Hike

Oh boy oh boy! First post-COVID hike. Truly it felt like this day would never come. I remember my first walk after starting to feel better had me feeling like I was 90 years old, but it slowly got easier. From the second I took my first vertical step up the red-dot trail I was in for a journey. I took it slow heading up, and I checked off the side trail that leads to the ski area near 1051 which was a well-welcomed break, and beautiful view. 

I continued my way up to the top thankful that I was (a) not dying and (b) just feeling winded, and not feeling like I was dying. I took the Eliot Circle as a walking break and stumbled upon a couple having a couples moment at the view, so I kept on my way. I headed down the Skyline Trail South for the first time (I've only ever ascended this stretch), and it's much easier to go down this trail than up. At the bottom of the steep climb I turned onto the Brookwood Trail for a wooded descent. 

Then I turned onto the Accord Path which was wooded, pollen-y (I swear I could feel the granules in my body), and very scenic stretch of the hike. It leads to numerous cool rocks, an old pump house (?), some really neat/interesting landscaping (?), and of course crossing the bottom of the ski slopes. 

I made it back to the car in no time, and I was just so happy to be back at it again!

Step-By-Step

• Park at Trailside Museum.
• Start hike at 1023, follow the red dot trail couter-clockwise.
• At 1051, take a detour onto the trail to the Ski Area for a nice view, retrace steps.
• Cross Summit Road to continue on red dot trail towards 1055.
• At 1055, turn right onto Eliot Circle. 
• At 1030, continue on circular trail that is now the Skyline Trail.
• At 1066, Turn right onto Skyline Trail South.
• At 1083, turn right, and immediately turn right again onto unmarked Brookwood Trail. 
• At 1062, turn left and hike to 1081, return.
• Back at 1062, hike down the hill to the road, return.
• Finally, back at 1062, coming up the hill, turn left onto Accord Path. 
• At 1003, continue straight on Accord Path.
• At 1050, quickly hike the section between 1050 and 1002, return.
• Continue hike on Accord Path.
• At 1010, enjoy views of the ski slopes and follow footpath to parking lot. 

Blue Hills Reservation Map

Photo Album

Hancock Hill and Houghton Hill from Trailside Museum (Blue Hills Reservation)

Hancock Hill and Houghton Hill from Trailside Museum

Hike Type: Loop
Distance: 7 miles
Elevation: 1020 feet
Time: 2 hours, 40 minutes
Hiking Challenges: Blue Hills 125-Mile Challenge

The Hike

Really nice hike on a very moody afternoon (weather-wise). Been recovering from strep throat and then my first cold since pre-pandemic, but my nose was open for long enough to convince me to get out into the woods. It was cool and spooky to watch and hear the trees flailing in the wind. This hike also served as a "clean up" hike for some of the random trails I've missed. I treated it as a choose your own adventure and it was a lovely afternoon.

Started at the trailside museum and started up the auto road to hit the trails around there. The Bartol path was nice, landed on a private farm. Saw a DCR "Dead End" sign which I haven't come across before. Contineud on the Border Path until I hit Unquity Road. There was some cool old foundation towards the road. From there, I decided to head up the trail that ascends the ridge of Hancock Hill beucase I remember the view being incredible, so I hopped on Chestnut Run and did my best to find the trail at 1201, but failed and ultimately ended up climbing wet boulders. Didn't die, and got those amazing views! The moody weather really added to it too.

From there I was officially on my return trip. Hopped on Skyline North, hit a few trails that I needed around Houghton's Hill, Circled the swamp around Walcott Hill, and made my way back to the car. The weather cooperated mostly, and I got a nice workout in. That view from Hancock Hill is absolutely amazing. 

Photo Album

[BACKLOG] Buck Hill (Blue Hills Reservation)

Buck Hill via Buck Hill Summit Trail & Unnamed Trail

Hike Type: Spaghetti
Distance: 5.4 miles
Elevation: 751feet
Time: 2 hours, 7 minutes
Hiking Challenges: Blue Hills 125-Mile Challenge; Toilet Paper Trio

The Hike

This was one of my favorite hikes in the Blue Hills to date. Beautiful day, warm weather, and views. Started at the pull-over across from Forest Street in Milton and jumped right into the woods at the Forest Path granite marker (I recently learned these trailhead markers were installed around 1985-1986) and turned left onto the Headquarters Path (which was apparently closed due to what I guess is construction on the old school house on 28, but two mountain bikers were blocking the sign so I didn't realize this until my return trip - oops!). After bouncing back from the old school house, I turned left at the fork and stayed on a windy trail that went all the way to the top of Buck Hill. This trail crosses the Forest Path (2194) and the Buck Hill Path (2182) on the way up, and it additionally crosses two unmapped trails towards the summit - one blazed with a plastic white triangle, and one with a plastic white square. I haven't found any details on these trails, but they are listed on AllTrails. 

The top of Buck Hill is always amazing. It's a small taste of the world above treeline. I didn't spend too much time up top since I knew I'd be back - so I pulled a wide U-Turn and went down the north side of the Buck Hill Summit Trail, which was another fun winding footpath. Turned left at 2153, and continued onto the Doe Hollow Path at 2151. From here I had a few trails to hit before I climbed Buck Hill again, which eventually brougth me to the Pig Rock Path, which I have many questions about and no answers (there were a few boulders - was one of them Pig Rock??). Back at 2154, I started climbing back up Buck Hill on a much less used trail. I hit a section that has previously been burned in a fire, but not sure when. The climb up the South Side of Buck Hill is just as fun as the other sides! It really does feel like I'm back in the whites, just... smaller and easer. 

Once back on top of Buck Hill I realized there were a few mountains in the distance. I booted up PeakVisor and found that they were Mt. Wachusett, Mt. Monadnock, and Pack Monadnock, which was very cool to see. From there I followed the Skyline Trail eastbound to descend, hit a few more random trails I needed, and then followed the Buck Hill Path back to the car. Great day!

Photo Album

Originally written March of 2022.

[BACKLOG] Fowl Meadow - Burma Road East (Blue Hills Reservation)

Fowl Meadow - Burma Road East (Blue Hills Reservation)

Hike Type: Spaghetti
Distance: 3.3 miles
Elevation: 194 feet
Time: 1 hour, 11 minutes
Hiking Challenges: Blue Hills 125-Mile Challenge; Toilet Paper Trio

The Hike

I was equally anxious and excited to cross this bunch of trails off of my list. I made a weak attempt to hike them when I hiked Burma Road and the trail along the Neponset River, but the Swamp Trail was flooded out so I went home. I parked at the end of Royall Street, which didn't seem the most legal but it's where I parked for a Skyline Trail traverse two falls ago so I risked it again to no issue!

There's an unmarked access trail to the Skyline Trail, and the Skyline Trail leads to abandoned pavement that was laid when I-95 was intended to go straight through Boston. The Skyline Trail over here is a bit messy with a lot of garbage, and the old pavement gives post-apocolyptic vibes. The pavement leads to an old rusted gate, and that's where this network of trails begins. 

I went straight at 6102 onto the Green Hill Path which was quite loveley. At 6103 I turned onto the Field Path which was anything but a field. The footpath was vauge but follow-able with baby thorns sticking out of the ground. The second half of the trail was dreadful. Someone on Facebook said if they ever returned he'd bring a machete and I firmly agree. I ended up getting spat back out at 6101, which does not line up with the trail on the map, but I'm pretty confident there was literally no other way to go as there were piles of thorns on all sides.

Anyway, once I survived I turked back onto the Green Hill Path and went back to the Swamp Trail, which was actually really cool. I hit the flooded section and did my best to rock-log-stick-mud hop to the other side, and I'll say I was definiteyl close enough! I then meandered to 6106 and hit up both spur trails. The sput that is an extension of the Green Hill Path was wide and easy and continued onto an unmarked network of trails (I believe it links up with extension of the Fowl Meadow Path that continues after the Swamp Trail, but not sure). I tured around at the border of the Blue Hills Reservation. It was hard to tell when the other spur trail stopped, but once I could clearly see into strangers' back yard I turned around, followed the Orchard Trail back, and made it back to the car!

Overall it was a nice afternoon. No desire to ever go back to the Field Path, but definitely curious about those other unmarked trails. 

Photo Album

Posted April 5th, 2022 at 6:35am.

[BACKLOG] Fox Hill, CCC Camp, Headquarters Path (Blue Hills Reservation)

Fox Hill, CCC Camp, Headquarters Path

Hike Type: Spaghetti
Distance: 8.3 miles
Elevation: 810 feet
Time: 3 hours, 3 minutes
Hiking Challenges: Blue Hills 125-Mile Challenge; 52 Hike Challenge

The Hike

This was a long one that felt like it took much longer than it did due to the speghetti-ness of this trail network, but as always there were fun surprises all around! I parked across the street from the Blue Hills Reservoir where there is a short, unmapped access trail that connects to the Pine Tree Brook Path. Right away I was greeted by my favorite sounds - frogs! It has finally been warm enough for the frogs to thaw and let out their silly calls again. A lot of this hike was hitting side trails, so I'm not going to include every twist and turn for my own sanity.

At 4084 I turned to go up Fox Hill. There was a footpath a little before the intersection that looked like it could be correct, but I tired to stick to the map and follow a less-defined path. I think the first path was the more correct one, but we survived! I really like the quietness and sneaky beauty of Fox Hill. Great partial views of Boston heading north on 4096, where a lot of the small trees had old insect galls on them which was really cool. 

From the bottom of Fox Hill, I followed the greet dot trail to Sawcut Notch Path. The random trail right before 4042 was interested. Wide path that terminated seemingly in the middle of nowhere. There were some open woods up the hill from the termination, but I chose not to explore simply becuase I had a lot more trail to cover. I really enjyoed the trails around the CCC Camp - lots of cool history!

I began to work my way towards the Headquarters Path at Chickatawbut Road while hitting lots of trails in between. My favorite part was passing this group of two hikers - one of which was clearly dragging their friend along for the ridd. We said hello and I passed them. About 5 minutes later, I was back on a different trail but I could hear the non-hiker friend screaming at her friend during one of the steeper climbs and I couldn't help but chuckle becuase I have definitely been there many, many times before. 

The Headquarters Path was my least favorite section of the hike, especially past 4012. The path was either thorny, overgrown, or flooded, and usually all three. Regardless, we made it and got to do it all again on the return! I missed the small spur path at 4012 to the neighborhood that I'll need to hit during my future "clean up day." Officially started my journey back to the car at 4030 - Pasture Run - and found a really neat section of trail between 4053 and 4072. At 4052 there is also a trail marker for the Great Dome Trail, which hasn't been listed on any maps since the 1980 printing - super cool! On Facebook I was told those stone trail markers were likely installed in the mid 80's which makes sense. 

Overall a nice long hike (minus that darn Headquarters Path... but we survived nonetheless)!

Photo Album

Posted April 8th at 7:15am.

[BACKLOG] Fowl Meadow - Burma Road and Neponset River (Blue Hills Reservation)

Fowl Meadow - Burma Road and Neponset River 

Hike Type: Lollipop
Distance: 5.1 miles
Elevation: 26 feet
Time: 1 hour, 50 minutes
Hiking Challenges: Blue Hills 125-Mile Challenge; Toilet Paper Trio

The Hike
This was a hike that I was wrongfully dreading. I've heard stories about how overgrown the trail along the Neponset River gets and how wet it always is. I put on my big boy shorts and went at it and was happily surprised! Burma Road was really a loveley walk. Always something to look at while walking on this wide path. There was a really cute bridge over a drainage that was something out of a children's book. At 6005 I turned right onto the Fowl Meadow Path that headed towards the Neponset River. I noticed a bunch of elevated sewers - I guess they were put in as infastructure when they planned to send I-95 through Boston? Not sure though. There was a very short spur path that went into the woods, formerly labaled 6009 as recently as the 2014 map, and the 1996 map shows a former trail that I assume is overgrown/flooded out. I followed the 6009 path until it became overgrown and then turned around.

From the 1996 map.

Then I landed at the Neponset River at a nice viewpoint. Across the river are the train tracks which reminded me that even though there was nobody around me, I was never alone. I was nervous starting this trek from everything that I've heard, and finding the trail took a second, and the first water crossing took a few more, but after that truly it was fine! Reports on Facebook say that I got it on a very dry day which I cannot be happier about. There were a few sections that were sketchy and I hit a few prickers, but truly it was fine. At the end of the path I even stumbled upon my first snake of the season!

Once getting back on Burma Road, I finished out that last portion towards I-95 and turned back around. I loved this section, even though it began to feel long. Lots of still water on the sides of the trail with plenty of ducks living their best lives. I had a good amount of energy left when I made it back to 6005, so I decided I would see how the trails on the Eastern side of Burma Road are. I followed the Fowl Meadow Path to the Swamp Trail, dodging some wet spots, and untimately turned around at the Swamp Trail beause it was flooded over. There were a few wide unmapped trails that stemmed out of this area but I decided not to explore as my after school hunger hit. I turned back and headed back to the car. I would definitely come back, but not in the summer and not in a wet season. 

Photo Album

Posted on April 8th, 2022 at 10:19 AM. 

[BACKLOG] Border Path & Hillside Pond (Blue Hills Reservation)

Border Path & Hillside Pond

Hike Type: Speghetti Out-and-Back
Distance: 5 miles
Elevation: 374 feet
Time: 1 hour, 51 minutes
Hiking Challenges: Blue Hills 125-Mile Challenge; 52 Hike Challenge

The Hike

This was a hike that I had low hopes for - saw it more as a chore - and as per usual I was pleasantly surprised! Nothing incredible remarkable about this hike, but it was just a lovely afternoon in the woods. Started at the Hillside Pond, followed an unmapped trail and ran into someone sunbaithing(?!), so I crossed the road and headed towards the Border Path. The Border Path followed a nice stream downhill until the junction at 1224 where I out-and-backed the Valley Path. Back at the Border Path, I followed the nice trail along private property and continued onward at 1215. This part of the path heads to the dam Unquity Road, something that I've driven past countless times, which was cool. From there it was easy going on the return trip back to Hillside Pond.

Back at Hillside Pond, I followed what appears to be a continuation of the Border Path towards Chickatawbut Road and the trail network there - all of which was scenic woods with wide trails. Afterwards I made my way to Hillside Pond which I was excited for, but very claustaphobic by the trail around the perimeter. Thin, sketchy, littered, and thorny, but we made it!

Photo Album

Posted on April 8th, 2022 at 7:44 PM.

[BACKLOG] Tucker and Boyce Hills (Blue Hills Reservation)

Tucker and Boyce Hills (Blue Hills Reservation)

Hike Type: Speghetti Loop
Distance: 4.1 miles
Elevation: 603 feet
Time: 1 hour, 41 minutes
Hiking Challenges: 52 Hike Challenge; Blue Hills 125-Mile Challenge

The Hike

Another wiggly-squiggly day in the blue hills! Started at the park headquarters along the Headquarters Path and then crossed the road to hit the trails between Uniquity, Hillside, and Chickatawbut Streets. Nothing to write home about here, but they're done! Once back on the mainland I cleaned up a few more trails and eventually headed up the Athol Path up Tucker Hill, hit a few more needed trails, and then traversed over Tucker Hill via Skyline. From there, I followed the White-Triangle trail in reverse as it skirts around North and South Boyce before making a return trip.

A rather uneventful hike, but pretty nonetheless! A very small bit of leftover show, a few short and steep climbs (mostly around Tucker Hill), and one semi-view from Tucker as well. Another nice afternoon in the woods. 

Photo Album

Posted on April 12th, 2022 at 1:18 PM. 

[BACKLOG] Houghton's Pond Loop (Blue Hills Reservation)

Houghton's Pond Loop (Blue Hills Reservation)

Hike Type: Loop
Distance: 1.5 miles
Elevation: 86 feet
Time: 32 minutes

Hiking Challenges: Blue Hills 125-Mile Challenge; Toilet Paper Trio Winter

The Hike

A super short, super sweet loop around Houghton's Pond. Been here many times before. I didn't want to dive too deep into real "exercise" this day, so instead I went in for a classic. Sadly, I went too casual and heavily regretted not bringing spikes. I went counterclockwise around the pond, and halfway through I jumped to the old route 128 to hopefully find less icy conditions. I was not successful, but I never fell! I only took this one photo for this hike. I'm very grateful to have this as a reliable option when I want to be outside but need to relax as well. 

Photo Album

Posted April 12th, 2022 at 1:31 PM.

[BACKLOG] Wampatuck and Rattlesnake Hills (Blue Hills Reservation)

Wampatuck and Rattlesnake Hills (Blue Hills Reservation)

Hike Type: Spaghetti
Distance: 3.8 miles
Elevation: 367 feet
Time: 1 hour, 43 minutes
Hiking Challenges: Blue Hills 125-Mile Challenge; Toilet Paper Trio Winter

The Hike

A beautiful, slushy day in the Blue Hills. The snow was melting, so most steps I took resulted in sinking and sliding, which was my biggest complaint. There were two main sketchy sections - coming down from the Crags on the Skyline Trail, and coming down the North-East side of Fox Hill. I really loved Fox Hill and the seasonal views of Boston. Not much else to write on this hike. I am grateful for the snowy scenery, but I was delighted to see it go away. 

Step-By-Step

• Park on Wampatuck Road near Rattlesnake Hill
• Hike in, turn left at first junction.
• At next junction, turn right onto Skyline Trail.
• At next junction (4147), turn left onto Crags Foot Path (Green Dot).
• At next junction, turn left.
• At next junction, turn right onto Skyline Trial. 
• Follow skyline trail, at 4155, turn right onto Indian Camp Path (Green Dot). 
• At next junction (4135), turn left onto Pipe Line. 
• Hike trails around 4131 and 4134, landing where the Pipe Line ends at Chicktawbut Rd.
• Turn right onto Fox Hill Path. 
• At summit, turn right onto poorly defined trail towards 4120. 
• Shortly turn right onto Indian Camp Path (Green Dot).
• Turn left to hike unnamed trail to 4142.
• Turn right at 4142 onto Crags Foot Path (Green Dot).
• Turn left at 4145 and hike Old Furnace Brook Path as an out-and-back.
• Back at 4145, follow trail to 4155.
• At 4155, turn around and turn right back onto Crags Foot Path (Green Dot).
• Follow Crags Foot Path until just before Wampatuck Road.
• Turn right onto unnamed trail that leads to parking. 

Photo Album

Originally written April of 2022.