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Hiking Committee

The Hiking (formerly Outings) Committee organizes general, non-technical events such as hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and backpacking trips. We have a very long list of hiking trips. Most hikes occur on weekends, but we do have a tradition of Tuesday hiking trips as well. Check out our schedule!

Thanks to the leaders for leading this hike - what beautiful snow-covered scenery and that view of Quabbin was amazing! – Nancy

Thanks to the leaders for leading this hike - what beautiful snow-covered scenery and that view of Quabbin was amazing! – Nancy

Sometimes, in the winter, our "hiking" trips suddenly become "snowshoeing" or "cross-country skiing" trips. Such is life in New England!
We're always looking for trip leaders, especially those with new ideas for trails to hike. If you're interested, please contact our Hiking Chair.

Joining a Hike

Please read the AMC Trip Policy (PDF) before joining a trip.
Be sure to bring lunch and liquids, bug repellant and sunscreen, and clothing and footwear appropriate to the conditions. When car-pooling, please offer a contribution to the driver for fuel costs.
To find out more about a scheduled hike or to sign up, contact the leader, coordinator, or other person listed for that trip.

Upcoming Activities

Click or tap on the Register links to learn more and/or register for activities.

The Fabulous World of Fungi: A Beginners Guide

Location: Russell, MA
Date: 17‑Oct‑2026
Register »
Step into the secret world of fungi! On this leisurely walk, we'll discover mushrooms, brackets, puffballs, lichens, and other fungi hiding in plain sight. Along the way, we'll learn simple tricks for identifying what we find and explore the remarkable lives of these often-overlooked organisms.
Fungi decompose fallen trees, recycle nutrients, partner with plants, and help shape entire ecosystems. They also play surprising roles in medicine, food, agriculture, and biotechnology. Come discover why the forest would grind to a halt without them!
This is not a foraging hike. We're here to observe, identify, and marvel, not munch! Tom Condon will be our guide for this Mushroom ID walk.
Refer to the registration page for more information.

Atkins Reservoir / Deans Brook / Robert Frost Trail

Location: Amherst, MA
Date: 17‑Oct‑2026
Register »
Come join us for a beautiful hike through North Amherst and Shutesbury! We'll begin on the shore of Atkins Reservoir, a peaceful spot ringed by trees and especially lovely in fall foliage or reflected winter light. From there, we'll follow Deans Brook upstream to a pair of small waterfalls before emerging near Sand Hill Road. We will be crossing Deans Brook twice.
Our route then connects with the Robert Frost Trail, leading us back toward North Amherst. A brief road walk links this section with the Mill River Conservation Area, where the trail continues past shaded streams and mossy glades before skirting the western edge of Puffers Pond — a favorite local spot for swimming and birding.
Expect varied terrain—woodland trails, rocky ridges, and one stream crossing, with a mix of gentle and moderate elevation changes. This section offers a rich blend of scenic overlooks, tranquil water features, and historical charm perfect for a half-day immersion in the natural and cultural beauty of Amherst.
Refer to the registration page for more information.

Alander Mountain

Location: Mount Washington, MA
Date: 20‑Oct‑2026
Register »
This is a 6-mile in-and-out hike with approximately 1,220 feet of elevation gain up the Alander Mountain Trail in the Mt Washington State Forest. Alander Mountain is arguably the most spectacular summit in the region.
From atop its 2239 foot summit one has views of three states, the Catskills, Mt Everett, Mt Ashley, Mt Frissell, Mt Brace, the Taconic Ridgeline, and the Hudson River valley.
Refer to the registration page for more information.
Affinity activities are designed for a specific audience, but everyone is welcome. If you do not identify with the specified group, we trust that you have reviewed our allyship criteria, have done your due diligence to educate yourself, and have committed to abide by our Code of Conduct. If you have questions, please contact the trip leader(s) by emailing them for more information.

[30s/40s] Roberts Hill Conservation Area | Moon Hot Cocoa

Location: Leeds, MA
Date: 22‑Oct‑2026
Register »
Come on out for this short easy night hike! This is a 1.5 mile out-and-back in Leeds. Please bring a headlamp. Red light is preferred. I try to go 'lights off' whenever possible (to preserve our night vision) but also want to be sure everyone is comfortable! There will be an (almost) full moon up.
Water and a snack are encouraged. Please wear shoes that can get wet and muddy.
I'll be bringing up my camping stove to heat up some cocoa when we get to the lookout!
Refer to the registration page for more information.
Affinity activities are designed for a specific audience, but everyone is welcome. If you do not identify with the specified group, we trust that you have reviewed our allyship criteria, have done your due diligence to educate yourself, and have committed to abide by our Code of Conduct. If you have questions, please contact the trip leader(s) by emailing them for more information.

Holyoke's Historic Canals and Dam Tour

Location: Holyoke, MA
Date: 24‑Oct‑2026
Register »
Join the park interpreter for a 2-hour walk along Holyoke's canal system. Explore the history of this fascinating planned industrial city. Tour starts with a bit of historical background. Along our route see headraces, tailraces, intakes, a Boyden Turbine assembly, and flywheels, and get an eyeball tour of the Holyoke dam complex. Maps of the canal system are available. Distance: 2.0 miles.
Program is free and open to all. Meet at the Holyoke Heritage State Park Visitor Center. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Dress for the weather. Severe weather cancels.
Refer to the registration page for more information.

New Member Hike at High Ledges Wildlife Sanctuary

Location: Shelburne, MA
Date: 25‑Oct‑2026
Register »
This hike is designed to give new members a chance to get outdoors, meet fellow members, learn more about AMC, and receive an introduction to group hikes. The hike will be led by two AMC-trained leaders and an AMC staff member. While this hike is designed for new members, all are welcome.
Let's explore High Ledges Wildlife Sanctuary in Shelburne, MA. This Mass Audubon property was formerly owned by professor, historian, and naturalist Dr. Ellsworth "Dutch" Barnard and his wife, Mary; the couple built a rustic cabin overlooking the ledges and created many of the trails we'll walk. We'll meander about 3.3 miles through mixed hardwood and conifer forests, taking in the views over the Deerfield River Valley toward Mt Greylock and a serene beaver pond. The pace will be relatively slow so we can enjoy the late-season fall colors and each other's company as we navigate rolling hills and some rocky and root-filled trails.
After the hike, we invite you to join us for a short drive to Shelburne Falls, where we'll walk over The Bridge of Flowers, check out the glacial potholes, and stop for lunch at Baked.
You will need hiking boots or sturdy shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, snacks, and non-cotton clothing (no jeans). Hiking poles will be helpful on uneven surfaces.
Refer to the registration page for more information.

Holyoke's Historic Canals and Dam Tour

Location: Holyoke, MA
Date: 31‑Oct‑2026
Register »
Join the park interpreter for a 2-hour walk along Holyoke's canal system. Explore the history of this fascinating planned industrial city. Tour starts with a bit of historical background. Along our route see headraces, tailraces, intakes, a Boyden Turbine assembly, and flywheels, and get an eyeball tour of the Holyoke dam complex. Maps of the canal system are available. Distance: 2.0 miles.
Program is free and open to all. Meet at the Holyoke Heritage State Park Visitor Center. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Dress for the weather. Severe weather cancels.
Refer to the registration page for more information.

Trails of Southampton, MA

Location: Southampton, MA
Date: 10‑Nov‑2026
Register »
Let's take some time to explore some of newer trails that have been developed in Southampton, MA. Starting with Wolf Hill Santuary, we will complete the 1.2-mile loop to Alder Pond (164 feet of elevation gain). Moose sightings are possible! Once back to the cars, we will drive 2 miles down the road to Breakneck Brook Conservation Area for a little more challenging hike up to Breakneck Mountain with views of the Seven Sisters Trail and Mt Tom. This loop is 3.8 miles with 830 feet of elevation.
Joining us for this experience with be our own Ed Buckley who has been involved in the development of these trails and can give us some insight to the past, present, and future of these two area.
Please bring snacks, lunch, and water. We plan to stop at the top of Breakneck Mountain for something to eat. Also poles if you use them as there are still a few rough areas we need to hike through.
Refer to the registration page for more information.

Activity Schedule

All activities are subject to cancellation due to poor weather conditions. Check activities on outdoors.org for up-to-the-minute additions not yet shown here. Not all activities may be posted yet.
Executive 20s/30s A.T. Management Bicycling Communications Family Programs Hiking Membership Mountaineering Net Management Paddling
Snowshoers in Wendell State Forest
  LANI GIGUERE
Hiking Committee members hiking along a river
  JEANNETTE PIERCE
A hiker views the surrounding valley
COMMITTEE HIGHLIGHT

AMC 150 Hikes

Since 1876, AMC has connected people to the outdoors through recreation, education, and conservation. In 2026, we celebrate 150 years of that legacy with the AMC 150th Relay — a 1,500-mile journey from VA to ME. Each leg of the relay contributes to a continuous route across the Northeast, showcasing the diversity of AMC's outdoor legacy. The Western MA Hiking Committee has 8 trips to choose from. Find them on our activities page.
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