Press Release  DCR Encourages Families and Residents to “Go Green on Black Friday” with Free Guided Hikes in Parks Across the State

Boston — The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) is encouraging families to “Go Green on Black Friday” with free, guided hikes at six agency parks across Massachusetts on Friday, November 29. For the 16th year in a row, DCR staff will lead family-friendly hikes over trails that range between one and five miles the day after Thanksgiving. The agency also offers self-guided hikes at several state parks for visitors to enjoy. 

“Participating in our 'Go Green on Black Friday' hikes is a great way to step away from the holiday rush, reconnect with nature, and foster a sense of shared environmental stewardship,” said DCR Commissioner Brian Arrigo. “We’re excited to continue this annual program that gives families and residents a special opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and explore their local state parks. We encourage people across the state to take part in this tradition and make the most of the holiday weekend with family and friends.”

DCR recommends that “Go Green on Black Friday” hike participants dress for the weather, wear sturdy shoes, and bring water. Inclement weather, rain, snow, or icy trail conditions may cancel the hike. Parking will be free at all DCR parks on Black Friday. Participants should contact the park for confirmation that a hike will be taking place. Additional details, including locations, difficulty, length, terrain, and age recommendations can be found on DCR’s DCR's website. Participants are encouraged to share photos of their hiking experience on social media and by tagging @MassDCR.

Throughout this month, DCR has been promoting the “Go Green on Black Friday” hikes on its social media channels – Instagram, Threads, YouTube, and X (Twitter) - with videos of staff previewing the hikes.

“Go Green Hikes on Black Friday” hikes are hosted at the following parks:

Blackstone River and Canal Heritage State Park, Blackstone

10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Join us for a 2-mile walk along the canal with mild inclines and paved paths. The hike is suitable for ages 12 and up. Meet at the Canal Street lot, located at 93 Canal St., Blackstone, and free parking is available on-site. If weather conditions are unfavorable, the hike may be canceled. There is no restroom available on-site, visitors should plan accordingly. For more information or updates, call (508) 278-7604 or visit bit.ly/blst_updates.  

Blue Hills Reservation, Milton

10 a.m. - 12 p.m. 

This 3-mile moderate hike offers a mix of forested paths and open terrain through this urban park that’s a regional recreational destination. This hike is suitable for participants ages 8 and up. Meet at the Houghton’s Pond Visitor Center. The hike may be canceled if weather conditions are inclement. For further information, call (857) 208-8494.

Borderland State Park, North Easton

11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.   

Join us for a 5-mile hike on mostly flat terrain, following the Pond Walk and Bob's Trail. The hike is appropriate for ages 8 and up. Meet at the Visitor Center. Borderland is home to the historic Ames Mansion. The hike will include breaks along the way to enjoy the surroundings. If weather conditions are unfavorable, the hike will be canceled. For more information, please call (508) 238-6566.

Great Falls Discovery Center, Turners Falls

1 - 2:30 p.m.   

This easy 3-mile walk along the Canalside Rail Trail is suitable for participants ages 8 and up. Meet at the front entrance of the Great Falls Discovery Center. The trail is level and paved, making it an accessible and relaxing walk. The Great Falls Discovery Center is a preserved historic paper mill that features free exhibits illustrating the natural, cultural and industrial history of the Connecticut River Watershed and Turners Falls. The hike may be canceled in the event of inclement weather or unsafe trail conditions. For more information, call (413) 863-3221.  

Lawrence Heritage State Park, Lawrence

10 a.m. - 12 p.m.   

Join us for a 1.5-mile walk along the Merrimack River at Riverside State Park. The hike is easy and suitable for ages 8 and up. Meet at the Abe Bashara Boathouse parking lot, located at 1 Eaton Street, Lawrence. The hike may be canceled in the event of inclement weather or icy trail conditions. For more information, call (978) 794-1655.

Waquoit Bay National, Estuarine Research Reserve, East Falmouth

10 a.m. - 12 p.m.   

Join us for a 2.8-mile hike along the Quashnet River. The first section of the trail is flat, while the second half has some inclines after crossing the river. The hike is best for ages 8 and up. Meet at the trailhead on Martin Road in Falmouth. There are no restroom facilities on-site, so please plan accordingly. The hike may be canceled in the event of rain, snow, or icy conditions. For more details or in case of questionable weather, call (508) 457-0495.

Additional Black Friday Offerings: 

Annual Parking Passes

As part of the agency’s commitment to encouraging outdoor recreation, starting this Black Friday, DCR is offering the 2025 Annual Parking Pass, available for $60. DCR’s Annual Parking Pass provides unlimited parking at most DCR parks across the state, from January 1 to December 31. Designed for ease and convenience, the Annual Parking Pass is digital — purchased via the YODEL app or the DCR YODEL portal, with the vehicle license plate serving as the means of validation all year long. In addition, seniors (age 62+) can take advantage of a lifetime parking pass for just $10.

The Annual Parking Pass provides nature enthusiasts with year-round access to Massachusetts' beautiful state parks, allowing pass holders to make the most of their outdoor adventure. For more information and to purchase a pass, visit DCR’s Annual Parking Pass webpage.

Skating Rinks Open

DCR DCR announced that the agency will open the five agency-managed, Boston-area indoor skating rinks for public skating beginning on Friday, November 29, including Emmons Horrigan O'Neil Memorial Rink in Charlestown, Steriti Memorial Rink in Boston, Devine Memorial Rink in Dorchester, Murphy Memorial Rink in Boston, Bajko Memorial Rink in Hyde Park, and Reilly Memorial Rink in Brighton. The Kelly Outdoor Rink in Jamaica Plain will open in mid-December and operate through mid-March, weather permitting. For more information visit the DCR DCR website.   

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