Appalachian Mountain Club
The Appalachian Mountain Club was founded in 1876 by Edward Pickering. In 1922, the organization moved to their current location at 5 Joy Street , which is located in the historic Beacon Hill section of Boston. Although conservation of the Appalachian Mountain Trail is the club's primary purpose, it is also a popular social organization, which sponsors a variety of day and overnight trips. Activities include hiking, biking, camping, canoeing, skiing, windsurfing and mountaineering. Opportunities for learning these activities are available. Additionally, there are a variety of local hikes, such as the four-mile hike around the Arnold Arboretum in Jamaica Plain. The club also owns a number of cabins and huts in New Hampshire, which are used for overnight trips. They recently created the 40-plus club, which offers special trips for people over 40. In 2009, membership rates were $40 for individuals and $60 for families. Non-members can participate in some activities. However, the rates are higher.
The Appalachian Mountain Club
5 Joy Street
Boston, Massachusetts 02108
(617) 523-0655
amcboston.org
The Boston Ski and Sports Club
The Boston Ski and Sports club was founded in 1967. It offers a variety of sports leagues, and sponsors year-round trips to New England and other destinations for outdoor enthusiasts. The winter ski trips are the club's most popular feature, because bus service from various parts of the city is included in the cost. They often go to resorts such as Sugarloaf and Jay Peak, which can be a 4- to 5-hour drive from Boston. During the bus ride, refreshments are served, and movies are shown. Trip participants stay at fully-equipped condominiums. These packages are usually more affordable than they would be if you were to put them together on your own. During the summer and fall, the club offers a variety of hiking and rock climbing trips. Instruction is available. In 2009, annual rates were $65, and includes free access to Boston Ski and Sports Club parties. Non-members can attend activities, but the rates are higher,
Boston Ski and Sports Club
70 Birmingham Parkway
Brighton, Massachusetts 02135
(617) 789-4070
bssc.com
Community Boating
Boston's community boating program began in 1936 by a man named Joseph Lee Jr. The program was started as a means of keeping the West End children off the streets in the summer. In 1942, adults were permitted to join if they performed 50 hours of service. Then, in 1946, the Community Boating was incorporated as a non-profit organization, which provides affordable sailing. Today, the organization offers sailing, windsurfing and kayaking to adults 18 years and older. Classes are available. You can opt for a full year membership, which cost $240 in 2009. This gives you access to all boats and all classes. Shorter and more limited programs are also available, as well as daily passes. Rates are reduced for children and senior citizens. Activities take place along the Charles River.
Community Boating, Inc.
21 David Mugar Way
Boston, Massachusetts 02114
(617) 523-1038
community-boating.org
