DCR partners with local LGBTQ+ organizations to host Pride Hikes in Mass.
BOSTON (WWLP) – The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) is hosting free guided Pride Hikes throughout the state this month in recognition of the LGBTQ+ community.
In celebration of Pride Month, DCR plans to lead a series of hikes in collaboration with local and regional LGBTQ+ organizations, including several in western Mass. such as the Stonewall Center at UMass Amherst and Queer Men of the Berkshires (Q-MoB).
Where to celebrate Pride Month in western Massachusetts
'At DCR, we are focused year-round on ensuring that all of our residents and visitors have access to and feel welcome and safe in our parks and on our trails – spaces that are essential for our overall well-being,' said DCR Commissioner Brian Arrigo. 'These Pride Hikes are opportunities for our LGBTQ+ friends and their loved ones to safely and peacefully come together and explore the beauty of our state parks. We are grateful to our partner organizations for joining us in this effort and hope that these hikes inspire some new DCR park enthusiasts.'
DCR encourages participants of Pride Hikes to wear pride colors and sturdy shoes for walking. Bug spray, sunscreen, and water are also recommended.
Pride Hikes will be held at the following properties:
Wompatuck State Park, Hingham: June 14, 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Wachusett Reservoir, West Boylston: June 14, 7:30 p.m. – 9:15 p.m.
Ashuwillticook Rail Trail, Adams: June 15, 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, East Falmouth: June 19, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Blackstone River and Canal Heritage State Park, Uxbridge: June 27, 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Great Falls Discovery Center, Turners Falls: June 28, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Middlesex Fells, Stoneham: June 29, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
The department plans to continue hosting Pride Hikes at agency parks throughout Massachusetts beyond the month of June. For more information on these events and other DCR programs, visit mass.gov.
WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.
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