Calendar

Aug
9
Sat
2025
Walk with a Doc @ Houghton's Pond Parking Lot A-
Aug 9 @ 8:30 am
Walk with a Doc @ Houghton's Pond Parking Lot A- | Milton | Massachusetts | United States

This walking program is a fun and safe place to take a walk (at your pace), learn health tips from local healthcare professionals, and meet new people. The event is FREE and all are welcome!

Walking is SO GOOD for you!  It is low impact and easier on the joints than running. Walking is safe and helpful for people with orthopedic ailments, heart conditions, and those who are overweight.  Walk with a Doc is a program for everyone interested in taking steps for a healthier lifestyle.  In the first few minutes you will learn about a health topic from a  professional, then spend the rest of the hour enjoying a nice walk in nature and fun conversation. It’s a great way to get out, get active, and enjoy all the benefits that come from walking. You will walk at your own pace and comfortable distance.

Walk Details:

Schedule: Walking on the 2nd Saturday of every month at 8:30 AM

Location: Houghton’s Pond Parking Lot A – 840 Hillside St., Milton, MA 02186 (Meet at a picnic bench with our Walk with a Doc Banner near the Pavilion at Parking Lot A)
This is an easy 1.2 mile walk around the pond.  We go will go twice around and all have  option to leave after once around.  There are a few roots and rocks to navigate.  For light rain we will meet with rain gear.  We will cancel for storms and icy conditions.  Walking  poles are suggested.
iNaturalist Walk @ Houghton’s Pond @ Houghton's Pond
Aug 9 @ 9:00 am – 11:00 am
iNaturalist Walk @ Houghton's Pond @ Houghton's Pond | Milton | Massachusetts | United States

Join Us for an iNaturalist Hike at Houghton’s Pond with Friends of the Blue Hills! Please meet Ann and Suzanne right next to the playground at Houghton’s Pond!

Discover the hidden wildlife around you with naturalists Ann Schunior and Suzanne Mrozak during a guided iNaturalist hike at Houghton’s Pond!

Whether you’re an experienced nature lover or just starting to explore the outdoors, this walk is a great way to connect with the environment and learn how to use the iNaturalist app, a powerful citizen-science tool that helps identify wildlife and contributes valuable data for conservation efforts.

You’ll help us better understand and protect the amazing biodiversity in and around our urban areas.

Back in April, Ann hosted a Zoom session on how to use iNaturalist. You can watch the video here get familiar with iNaturalist before the hike.

Come explore the natural world in a whole new way with Suzanne and Ann. Let’s discover what’s living in our own backyard!

Click here to learn how to sign up for iNaturalist and to get familiar with iNaturalist as well!

We look forward to seeing you out on the trail!

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Take a Frog Walk @ Houghton's Pond
Aug 9 @ 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Take a Frog Walk @ Houghton's Pond | Canton | Massachusetts | United States

Join us for a fun and educational Frog Hike, where we’ll explore local wetlands, ponds, and streams in search of frogs, tadpoles, and other fascinating amphibians! Led by a Caitie, a nature enthusiast with a passion for all things amphibian! This easy-paced hike is perfect for families, nature lovers, and curious explorers of all ages.

Learn how to identify different frog species by their calls with the help from Caitie and various apps, discover the importance of wetlands, and see firsthand how frogs play a vital role in our ecosystem. We’ll also cover how to observe wildlife responsibly and what makes amphibians such amazing creatures.

What to Bring:

  • Comfortable walking shoes/boots

  • Water bottle

  • Bug spray

  • Binoculars or camera (optional)

Sign up Below!

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Aug
16
Sat
2025
Bird Feeder Day @ Houghton's Pond
Aug 16 @ 9:30 am – 1:30 pm
Bird Feeder Day @ Houghton's Pond | Canton | Massachusetts | United States

Stop by our table at Houghton’s Pond! We’ll have everything you need to make a simple bird feeder and learn how to care for birds and nature responsibly. We set up near the food stand! You will see us with our big Blue Tent!!

Caitie will be there all day to share tips on bird-safe feeding and how to support wildlife while following Leave No Trace principles. Kids are welcome, and all supplies are provided, while supplies last!

Drop by for:

  • Make-your-own bird feeder

  • Tips for safe, eco-friendly bird feeding

  • Free take-home guides for all ages

  • Friendly conversations about nature and stewardship

No Signup Needed, just drop by!

Aug
18
Mon
2025
Ashes to New Beginnings Hike @ Houghton's Pond Parking Lot
Aug 18 @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Ashes to New Beginnings Hike @ Houghton's Pond Parking Lot | Milton | Massachusetts | United States
LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY: MODERATE
This hike will be approximately 3 miles, with some elevated difficult terrain and rocky obstacles. Wear sturdy footwear. 
This hike will begin at 840 Hillside St, Houghton’s Pond, by the playground. 
Hikes are rain or shine.  We stay together and take a steady but patient pace.  We are patient with everyone and we will go the pace of the slowest hiker.  Stops may be frequent for water, pictures or any other reason.
Appropriate gear includes hiking boots, water, and layers.
Stay together.  Look out for each other. Report issues to hike leader immediately.
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Aug
23
Sat
2025
Kid Friendly Hike @ Houghton's Pond
Aug 23 @ 9:00 am – 10:30 am
Kid Friendly Hike @ Houghton's Pond | Canton | Massachusetts | United States

Bring the whole family and join us for a Kid-Friendly Nature Hike, a calm, welcoming walk perfect for children and their grown-ups who want to enjoy the outdoors together.

This easy-paced hike is designed with young hikers in mind. We’ll take our time exploring the trail, noticing plants, listening to bird calls, and keeping an eye out for any creatures that might cross our path. There’s no rush and no pressure, just a chance to enjoy nature at a child’s pace.

What to Expect:

  • A short, relaxed hike suitable for young children under the age of 12!

  • Plenty of stops to look, listen, and enjoy the surroundings

  • A chance to gently introduce kids to hiking and nature trails

  • Supportive guidance from Caitie, who loves sharing her knowledge with curious young minds

What to Bring:

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Water and light snacks

  • Bug spray and sunscreen

  • Weather-appropriate clothing

Signup Below![gravityform id="62" title="true" description="true"]