Hiking the Blue Hills: Fun for Be Fit Families by Marie G. Ferraro, ACSM Health/Fitness Instructor
A New England Fall is synonymous with hiking: crisp, Canadian air and cerulean skies… the crackle and crunch of multicolored leaves beneath our feet. And the best part?
You don’t have to travel to NH or VT to experience this seasonal splendor. Although the DCR delineates various recreational sites by region (http://www.mass.gov/dcr/recreate/hiking.htm), the Greater Boston locations are all accessible by public transportation and car. Hiking venues in Greater Boston, like Middlesex Fells, Stony Brook, Breakheart, and the Blue Hills Reservations are virtually in our own backyard.
In particular, Milton’s Blue Hills are in close proximity to Boston and have a variety of trails suitable for a variety of ages and fitness levels. If you, or better yet, your child downloads the suggested hikes and trail maps, you are guaranteed a day of family fun and fitness! The hikes themselves range from easy 30-minute, under-a-mile trails through woodlands or pond to the much more challenging 3-hour, 3.5 mile summit hike with its 360° panoramic view.
Whichever trail you select, preparation for your hike should include a trail map and first-aid kit. Additionally, proper clothing and suitable footwear, food/snacks and lots of water are essential items. Although hiking boots are recommended for the challenging trails, cross-trainers or rugged outdoor shoes could suffice for an easy to moderate hike. Due to the sudden variability of our New England weather, don’t forget to dress in layers and pack a water-repellent jacket, hat, gloves and extra pair of socks. Speaking of inventory, each member of the family is responsible for carrying his/her own gear. Last, but certainly not least in importance is the golden rule of hiking: "Leave no trace.” In other words, carry out whatever you’ve brought in.
Hiking is a wonderful opportunity to spend time together as a family in the outdoors. Chances are that your children will learn not only about the various flora and fauna, but also about the importance of family fitness. It’s a win-win as you provide familial support to one another -- an integral variable in the Be Fit wellness formula. Perhaps the vista is not the only reward for your efforts? Keep on trekkin’…
You don’t have to travel to NH or VT to experience this seasonal splendor. Although the DCR delineates various recreational sites by region (http://www.mass.gov/dcr/recreate/hiking.htm), the Greater Boston locations are all accessible by public transportation and car. Hiking venues in Greater Boston, like Middlesex Fells, Stony Brook, Breakheart, and the Blue Hills Reservations are virtually in our own backyard.
In particular, Milton’s Blue Hills are in close proximity to Boston and have a variety of trails suitable for a variety of ages and fitness levels. If you, or better yet, your child downloads the suggested hikes and trail maps, you are guaranteed a day of family fun and fitness! The hikes themselves range from easy 30-minute, under-a-mile trails through woodlands or pond to the much more challenging 3-hour, 3.5 mile summit hike with its 360° panoramic view.
Whichever trail you select, preparation for your hike should include a trail map and first-aid kit. Additionally, proper clothing and suitable footwear, food/snacks and lots of water are essential items. Although hiking boots are recommended for the challenging trails, cross-trainers or rugged outdoor shoes could suffice for an easy to moderate hike. Due to the sudden variability of our New England weather, don’t forget to dress in layers and pack a water-repellent jacket, hat, gloves and extra pair of socks. Speaking of inventory, each member of the family is responsible for carrying his/her own gear. Last, but certainly not least in importance is the golden rule of hiking: "Leave no trace.” In other words, carry out whatever you’ve brought in.
Hiking is a wonderful opportunity to spend time together as a family in the outdoors. Chances are that your children will learn not only about the various flora and fauna, but also about the importance of family fitness. It’s a win-win as you provide familial support to one another -- an integral variable in the Be Fit wellness formula. Perhaps the vista is not the only reward for your efforts? Keep on trekkin’…
posted by BeFit at 10:49 AM
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