After a long work week, it's easy (and tempting) to stay on the couch for a TV binge. But there's no better way to unplug and recharge from the week than with a great hike around one of the Boston area's many beautiful trails, followed by a decadent brunch. Here are four places in and near the city where you can get in a scenic morning workout, then unwind with some good eats.
Blue Hills Reservation
Milton
The hike: With more than 7,000 acres and 125 miles of trails, this preserve in Milton, just 15 minutes south of Boston, has a path for every hiker. Novices can tackle the 2.5-mile Wolcott Path, which meanders through flat woodlands, while hill-seekers should head for the three-mile Skyline Loop, which offers panoramic views.
The brunch move: Just a five-minute drive from the reservation, you'll find Newcomb Falls Family Restaurant, known for classic breakfast fare like chocolate chip pancakes, veggie omelets, and home fries. Just be sure not to hike yourself hangry: waits can run 30 minutes to an hour at peak weekend times.
Middlesex Fells Reservation
Malden/Medford/Melrose/Stoneham/Winchester
The hike: Boasting over 100 miles of trails, this former granite quarry and timber area north of the city now offers a variety of ways to get out and explore, from a historic one-mile hike through the Virginia Woods to a challenging 7-mile hike to rocky outcrops, with beautiful views of Boston. It's a favorite for mountain bikers, too.
The brunch move: In Winchester, 10 minutes from the reservation, you'll find TWK (The Waterfield Kitchen), which specializes in contemporary cuisine. There, you can enjoy everything from fried shrimp to Korean bulgogi to a charcuterie platter, all paired with a big selection of craft beers.
Summit Avenue and Beacon Street
Brookline
The hike: For a short but strenuous climb within the city limits, hit this challenging intersection in Brookline, where the half-mile hike up Corey Hill can hit a 15 to 16 percent grade. For a hardcore workout, some November Project devotees are known to sprint up and down the hill five times.
The brunch move: Once you've conquered the hill, head back down and treat yourself to Brookline brunch staple Zaftigs Delicatessen, known for its challah French toast, potato latkes, and cheese blintzes. Brunch waits can get long, but that'll give you an opportunity to caffeinate and catch your breath.
Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park
The hike: A quick and inexpensive boat ride from the Boston Harbor Cruises Ferry Center will lead you to this sextet of gorgeous islands, which offer hikes with a view of the water. Some of the most popular hikes include the steep climb to the North Drumlin on Spectacle Island, and the more leisurely trails on Peddocks Island, where you can spot birds and other fauna.
The brunch move: To make the most of your trip to the islands, you'll want a brunch you can bring with you, and it's hard to beat the Italian-style subs from Al's State Street Cafe, located just a five-minute walk from the ferry terminal. Favorites include the chicken salad, steak bellino with onions and peppers, and the State Street Special, with prosciutto, mozzarella, and tomatoes.
