Central
Wachusett Reservoir, Intersection of Route 110 and Chace Hill Rd, Sterling, MA
Gratitude After Gravy Hike: Then and Now Hike to Greenhalge Point
Sunday, November 30, 10:00am -12:00pm
Meeting Location: Wachusett Reservoir Gate 35, at the intersection of Route 110 and Chace Hill Rd, Sterling.
Get to know the Wachusett Reservoir as the fall landscape unveils evidence of the past. Dress in layers with sturdy footwear, be prepared for windy conditions near the water. Bring water and trekking poles and your sense of adventure to enjoy the scenic shoreline views on this 4-mile round trip. Hikes will be at a slow pace. Dogs are not allowed. Moderate hike with hills, roots and rocks underfoot. Meet at Wachusett Reservoir Gate 35, at the intersection of Route 110 and Chace Hill Rd, Sterling. To check status of this event, please call 617-352-4044.
North
Belle Isle Marsh Reservation, 1399 Bennington St, Boston, MA
Gratitude After Gravy Hike
Friday, November 28, 10:00am – 11:15am
Meeting Location: Belle Isle Marsh Reservation kiosk, in parking lot
Take a leisurely stroll around one of Boston's last remaining salt marshes, which is known as being a natural oasis in the heart of the city. During the 1-mile walk, participants will have the opportunity to view some of the reservation's birds, learn about the various habitats of the reservation, and connect with others. You’re also welcome to enjoy a self-guided story trail during the holiday weekend, perfect for those who can’t attend the staffed program. Dress for the weather, inclement weather will cancel.
Harold Parker State Forest, 305 Middleton Road Andover, MA
Gratitude After Gravy Hike
Friday, November 28, 10:00am – 12:00pm
Meeting Location: Park Headquarters
You’ll feel better about that Thanksgiving indulgence if you join us for a hike on the beautiful trails of Harold Parker! Best for children ages 7 and up. It is approximately a 3-mile hike on moderate trails. Wear clothing for hiking; bring rain gear as appropriate. Only pouring rain cancels. Co-sponsored by the Friends of Harold Parker State Forest.
South
Massasoit State Park, 1362 Middleboro Avenue in East Taunton, MA
Gratitude After Gravy Hike
Friday, November 28, 1:00pm – 3:00pm
Meeting Location: By the Contact Station in the Main Parking Lot
Would you rather connect with nature than compete with the Black Friday shopping crowds? Did you overindulge during your Thanksgiving feast and want to burn some calories? Then come hike the trails of Massasoit State Park on this 4 -mile, moderately paced recreational hike! Great for ages 13+, children must be accompanied by an adult. Dress for the weather, wear sturdy hiking shoes and blaze orange, bring drinking water and a snack. Steady rain cancels. To confirm in case of inclement weather, call (508) 272-9376.
Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve: Quashnet River Trailhead, Martin Road, Falmouth, MA
Gratitude After Gravy Hike
Friday, November 28, 12:00pm – 2:00pm
Meeting Location: Quashnet River Trailhead
Join us for a walk along the Quashnet River this holiday weekend. We will look for fish, listen for birds and other wildlife as we walk this 2-mile loop. Easy to moderate walk with some small hills. Please meet at the Quashnet River Trailhead. Great for ages 8+, children must be accompanied by an adult. Dress for the weather and wear sturdy footwear. Steady or heavy rain cancels. No bathrooms available.
West
Great Falls Discovery Center, 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA
Gratitude After Gravy Hike
Friday, November 28, 1:00pm – 2:00pm
Meeting Location: Main entrance
Get moving this holiday weekend and connect with nature and local history! Join us for a leisurely walk along the Canalside Rail Trail. The walk is about 3-miles, on a level paved surface, makes for an easy stroll for adults and children ages 8 and up. Be prepared for cold weather, dress in layers. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water. Walk begins at the front entrance to the Great Falls Discovery Center. Inclement weather or icy trail conditions cancel.
Mount Holyoke Range State Park, 1500 West Street, Amherst
Gratitude After Gravy Hike
Friday, November 28, 1:00pm – 3:00pm
Meeting Location: Map Kiosk outside the Notch Visitors Center
Join park interpreters for a guided hike at Mount Holyoke Range State Park. Choose from an offering of an easy/moderate hike or a moderate/hard hike, each spanning 3-4 miles with a duration of 2 hours. Park Interpreters will guide you along the trail, offering light conversations about the natural and cultural resources of the Range and our connection with nature. Come prepared for cold weather, dress in layers, and wear sturdy shoes. Hikes begin at the Map Kiosk outside the Notch Visitors Center. Inclement weather or icy trail conditions cancel. Free parking at the Notch Visitor Center. Overflow parking available on Military Road. For more information, please call 413-253-2883.
Mount Greylock State Reservation, 30 Rockwell Rd, Lanesborough
Friday, November 28 1:00-3:00pm
Gratitude After Gravy Hike
Meeting Location: Visitor Center
This 2-mile hike follows an easy forested trail with lots of fun features to discover as we burn off our Thanksgiving dinners with this healthy, go-green event! Free for all ages. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Dress for the weather; wear sturdy shoes, bring water, and a snack. Trekking poles advised. Inclement weather cancels. Meet at the Visitor Center. Pre-registration required. For additional information and to pre-register for this event, please call the Visitor Center at (413) 499-4262.
Water Supply
Division of Water Supply Protection
Self-Guided Hikes:
Explore some recommended hikes, curated by our interpretive services staff. For Self-guided opportunities, please visit: Recommended hikes . Each StoryMap provides detailed information on what you can expect on each of these hikes. This is a great way to preview a trail before setting out.
Additional Resources
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Open PDF file, 653.7 KB, DCR 2026 Gratitude after Gravy Hikes (English, PDF 653.7 KB)