Submitted by ___j-b___ t3_yvdqpm in massachusetts

Hi all- I want to start getting into hiking starting in the spring. I am hopeful someone might have some resources or a master link to hiking in MA (and New england!). Ideally this would be listed from shortest/easiest to hardest/longest but im not really finding any info on ALL the hiking trails/mountains. Of course can you find lists such as "top 10" but i want them all :) Thanks!

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LumberJack732 t1_iwdtzms wrote

Start out exploring Blue Hills, The Fells, and areas around Walden Pond. Also, AllTrails is your best friend.

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MoreGuitarPlease t1_iwe2icw wrote

I’d get out there now rather than in mud season.

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Unique-Public-8594 t1_iwdz207 wrote

Some tips:

AllTrails.

I start every spring with a 500 foot elevation gain hike, then increase in 500 foot increments (a week apart minimum).

Keep in mind a short steep hike is harder than a longer hike that goes as high but not as steeply.

The most important thing to bring with you is a willingness to turn around and give up if there is a problem.

Water is better inside you than in your backpack.

Someone to talk to as you hike makes it go by much faster.

Not all peaks have a view. Most, yes, but not all.

Pack toilet paper in a zip loc bag just in case.

Have fun, OP. It’s great out there.

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moxie-maniac t1_iwdzcn2 wrote

The AMC publishes a great set of New England hiking guides.

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March_Latter t1_iwdvyer wrote

There is a list of the highest peak hikes in New England and there is a challenge series for the very serious. Also look into HikeSafe situations to improve safety.

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kborer22 t1_iwe6xp8 wrote

I have an older version of this book which can certainly give you a starting point, and if you go to your local REI or bookstore, I'm sure there are plenty more. And as many have mentioned, all trails app is great.

60 Hikes within 60 Mile's of Boston

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jjgould165 t1_iwewqo7 wrote

Don't use AllTrails solely. Please get yourself a good set of maps. Too many people lose service and get off trail and either damage the environment or need rescue. AMC maps are great. Different MA DCR sites have maps at the trailhead (and online versions you can print or view ahead of time) at their individual sites that you can see here: https://www.mass.gov/lists/dcr-trail-maps.

This is my preferred site for the Whites: https://bmhatfield.github.io/white-mountains/.

But please bring a real map with you when you are going out beyond the Blue Hills, Fells, or your local trails.

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