Massachusetts Trail Recommendations for Aging Hikers

Marcy on the Pocumtuck Ridge Trail.

     Many years ago, while representing DCR at a Big E booth, an older couple asked me where they could hike. They weren't looking for accessible trails. Having been avid hikers for a long time, they wanted to know what trails offered a better match for their changing abilities. 

     At the time, I was a bit stumped. Now, in my mid-60s, I get it. And since I've continued to hike over the years, I realize I have developed a list of places and strategies I've chosen that have worked well for me as my needs and abilities change. There are more active and aging hikers who want to keep in shape and enjoy a favorite form of recreation than ever before. We may be ambulatory and in reasonable condition but need to approach hiking differently to continue to benefit from all that hiking offers.