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About us

Welcome to the Hiking/Backpacking (HB) Committee of the Boston Chapter of the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC). AMC connects people to the outdoors.  We  offer a variety of volunteer-led hikes year-round, including: shorter hikes, easy to strenuous day hikes, introductory instructional programs, and overnight trips (hut and cabin trips and backpacks). While we lead trips throughout New England, our trips are most frequently located in the greater Boston area / MA and NH. AMC offers a structure for leadership training and peer-approved leaders so that we can operate safe and well-organized hikes. Our hikes are open to everyone based on ability (and requisite gear as applicable), although participants on backcountry trips are usually screened to ensure a good fit.  You don't need to be a AMC member to join us for most trips, though we encourage you to support AMC’s work by becoming a member.  We look forward to hiking with you!
Please read the full trip description first, not just the trip titles, before registering for the trip on the AMC website. Thank you.
Sign up for HB Announce, our newsletter that advertises our upcoming hikes twice per month.
Check out AMC’s activities, the official site for all AMC trip postings, for the Hiking/Backpacking Committee hikes and for trips from other committees.

Upcoming events

29

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  • Backpack the Wildcat-Carter-Moriah Traverse

    Backpack the Wildcat-Carter-Moriah Traverse

    Location not specified yet

    Activity Type: Hiking, Local Walks, & Trail Running | Hiking
    Difficulty: 6 - Strenuous
    Trip Leader(s): Dennis Bouthillier, Thomas Kenyon, Deanna Kenyon
    Registration Type: Application
    Please Click Here to RSVP:
    https://activities.outdoors.org/a5UVX0000018UDF
    Register By: 8/12/2026
    Audience: Adults

    Description: Join us for an epic 2 day, 21 mile traverse crossing 6 of New Hampshire’s 4000 foot summits, Wildcat D (4062), Wildcat A (4422), Carter Dome (4832), South Carter (4430), Middle Carter (4610), and Mount Moriah (4049), with several smaller summits along the way. This trek boasts steep rocky trails, scrambles, lakes and several stunning views stretching across Mount Washington, the Presidential Range, Maine and more.
    The Wildcat-Carter-Moriah traverse is a highly challenging hike with rocky, varying terrain with several very steep ascents and descents. Participants should be comfortable on steep exposed scrambles as well as the steep downhill sections. The trip has a cumulative elevation gain total of approximately 7500 feet.
    Those seeking to participate should consider the following pre-requisites: Possess a high level of fitness to handle the demands of this hike, including aerobic fitness for the heat/humidity of late August in the Whites. Recent hiking trips: At least two hiking trips in the last two months and at least one backpacking trip in the last year, preferably in the White Mountains or a similar region. Maintaining a steady uphill pace of 1.0-1.5 mph with a full pack needing limited breaks. A “dialed in” setup for all your gear including the four essentials (backpack, sleeping pad, sleeping bag, and tent). Participants should not be carrying unnecessary goods, since excessive weight will prevent our group from maintaining a consistent pace. Leaders will be weighing packs at the start of the hike.
    The trip leaders reserve the right to modify or alter planned routes or cancel the trip at any time in the instance of any adverse/unforeseen event, unsafe trail conditions or inclement weather.

    Reminder: Please click the RSVP link above to register!

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    1 attendee
  • Presidential Challenge: Day Hike Across Six Peaks! Jefferson • Washington •

    Presidential Challenge: Day Hike Across Six Peaks! Jefferson • Washington •

    Location not specified yet

    Activity Type: Hiking, Local Walks, & Trail Running | Hiking
    Difficulty: 6 - Strenuous
    Trip Leader(s): Majid Ali, Milan Rancic, Tyler Agersea
    Registration Type: Application
    Please Click Here to RSVP:
    https://activities.outdoors.org/a5UVX000001AXAD
    Audience: Adults

    Description: Get ready for a big, bold Presidential Range adventure. This full‑day traverse covers six iconic 4,000‑footers in one continuous push. A true challenge for strong, experienced hikers who love long miles, big climbs, and nonstop ridge‑top scenery. We’ll start high on the northern end and work our way across the spine of the range, tagging: • Mt. Jefferson — rugged, rocky, and a powerful start • Mt. Washington — the high point of the Northeast • Mt. Monroe — sweeping views over the Lakes of the Clouds • Mt. Franklin — quiet, scenic ridge walking • Mt. Eisenhower — wide‑open dome with 360° views • Mt. Pierce — a classic finish through alpine and forest terrain Expect exposed ridgelines, rocky footing , and steady elevation changes throughout the day. This is a demanding route, but one of the most rewarding days you can experience in the White Mountains. Distance: ~13.5 miles (depending on route) Elevation Gain: ~5,000–5,500 ft Pace: Moderate, steady, with regroup points What to Bring • Hiking boots with strong traction • 2–3+ liters of water + electrolytes • Plenty of food for a long day • Extra layers — wind and temps can change fast above treeline • Sun protection • Headlamp • Trekking poles (optional but helpful) Important Notes • This is an experienced‑hiker event due to distance, exposure, and weather variability. • Weather will be monitored closely; unsafe conditions may require route adjustments. • Group stays together, safety and good decision‑making come first. If you’re looking for a big mountain challenge with huge views and a sense of accomplishment that lasts for days, this Presidential Six‑Peak Traverse delivers.

    Reminder: Please click the RSVP link above to register!

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    1 attendee
  • Mt. Isolation Traverse via Glen Boulder and Rocky Branch

    Mt. Isolation Traverse via Glen Boulder and Rocky Branch

    Location not specified yet

    Activity Type: Hiking, Local Walks, & Trail Running | Hiking
    Difficulty: 6 - Strenuous
    Trip Leader(s): Patricia Sanchez, Julie Huber
    Registration Type: Application
    Please Click Here to RSVP:
    https://activities.outdoors.org/a5UVX0000019SsX
    Register By: 8/10/2026
    Audience: Everyone

    Description: Join us for a challenging summer hike to Mount Isolation (4,004 ft), one of the more remote and rewarding 4,000-footers in the White Mountains. Approaching via the Glen Boulder Trail, this route offers a mix of steep climbing, extended above-treeline travel, and quieter backcountry terrain. Expect outstanding views, exposed sections, and a long day in the mountains.
    We will complete a point-to-point traverse using the Glen Boulder Trail, Davis Path, Isolation Trail, and Rocky Branch Trail. Starting at Pinkham Notch, we’ll climb to treeline via Glen Boulder, passing the iconic boulder before continuing up to the Davis Path with expansive views. From there, we’ll head south along rugged and often wet terrain to reach Isolation.
    After summiting, we’ll descend via Isolation Trail and continue out along Rocky Branch Trail, following a longer but more gradual exit through the valley. This is a point-to-point hike and will require a car spot between Pinkham Notch and the Rocky Branch Trailhead.
    Hikers should be prepared to cover approximately 14 miles with about 5,000 feet of elevation gain. The pace will be moderate (1.5mph), and we will stay together as a group. Despite the moderate pace, this is a strenuous, full-day hike requiring strong fitness, endurance, and comfort with sustained climbing, exposed terrain, and variable trail conditions. This will be a 10–11 hour day.
    Required Gear: Standard White Mountain daypack is required: 10 essentials including headlamp, warm jacket, rain gear, lunch, water, other personal gear as desired. Sturdy footwear suitable for rough hiking.
    Please refer to the AMC three-season gear checklist: https://hb.amcboston.org/images/docs/Gear_lists/Spring_Dayhike_gear_list.pdf

    Reminder: Please click the RSVP link above to register!

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    1 attendee
  • Womens+ Hiking Weekend at Shapleigh Bunk House

    Womens+ Hiking Weekend at Shapleigh Bunk House

    Location not specified yet

    Activity Type: Hiking, Local Walks, & Trail Running | Hiking
    Difficulty: 5 - Vigorous
    Trip Leader(s): Patricia Sanchez, Judith Watson, Audrey Brahms, Katie Gerlich
    Registration Type: Application
    Please Click Here to RSVP:
    https://activities.outdoors.org/a5UVX0000014Qg5
    Register By: 8/18/2026
    Audience: Women+

    Description: Join us for a Women’s+ summer weekend of hiking and community in the White Mountains, based at the Shapleigh Bunkhouse at the AMC Highland Center in Crawford Notch. We’ll spend our days exploring beautiful trails and our evenings relaxing, sharing stories, and enjoying the company of a welcoming group of hikers.
    Friday: There will be an optional easy-to-moderate hike for those arriving earlier in the day. After checking in at the AMC Highland Center, we will gather in the lounge for introductions and then enjoy a group dinner together.
    Saturday: After breakfast, we will head out for the day. Two hiking options will be offered: one strenuous/vigorous hike and one moderate hike, allowing participants to choose based on their experience and comfort level. The pace will be on the slower side of moderate, and we will hike as a group, maintaining the pace of the slowest hiker. In the evening, we will reconvene at the bunkhouse for dinner and social time.
    Sunday: After breakfast, we will enjoy an easy-to-moderate hike—such as a nearby waterfall hike—before departing for home.
    The Shapleigh Bunkhouse is a comfortable, hostel-style lodging in the heart of Crawford Notch. It features shared bunkrooms, access to showers and common areas, and convenient access to many nearby White Mountain trails. The bunkhouse also includes a common room for guests, as well as a pantry area with a sink, microwave, and refrigerator where participants can store their lunches and snacks.
    Our group will have the entire bunkhouse to ourselves, making it an ideal basecamp for hiking and relaxing. Dinner and breakfast are included and served buffet-style in the AMC Highland Center dining room, located just a short walk from the bunkhouse.
    Once you complete registration and payment, please fill out the following form with additional information: https://forms.gle/ib2kGwsKzr3FHSW49
    Cancellation Policy: If Participant cancels before July 10, a refund will be issued. Between July 10 and August 10, a refund may be issued if the participant's spot can be filled by another participant. After August 10, no refund will be issued. If the trip or event is cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances a refund may or may not be issued.
    Waitlist: If the trip is full, please sign up for the waitlist here: https://forms.gle/NNu2tiXSifpsemFh6
    Gear for hiking: Sturdy Hiking Shoes. Wear moisture wicking layers and warm clothing appropriate for the temperatures and conditions (temperatures in the mountains can be colder than expected).
    A Daypack/Backpack packed with the following: water bottle(s) or camelback (carry 2 liters of water) lunch and snacks raincoat/rain gear (just in case) personal first aid kit and medications sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, etc) insect repellent and/or bug net flashlight or headlamp hiking poles recommended (if you use them) Please refer to the AMC three-season gear checklist: https://hb.amcboston.org/images/docs/Gear_lists/Spring_Dayhike_gear_list.pdf
    This is intended to be a Womens+ affinity trip, but everyone is welcome. If you do not identify with that group, we trust that you have reviewed our allyship criteria, have done your due diligence to educate yourself, and have committed to abide by our Code of Conduct . If you have questions, please contact the trip leaders by emailing them for more information.

    Reminder: Please click the RSVP link above to register!

    • Photo of the user
    1 attendee

Group links

Organizers

Jeff B. is a Super Organizer

Members

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