The Berkshires is a beautiful and diverse area in western Massachusetts, renowned for its scenic mountain trails, breathtaking vistas, and outdoor recreation. It is a great place to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and spend some time in nature. Hiking and camping in the Berkshires is a great way to experience all that this region has to offer, and there are many trails to choose from that cater to different levels of experience and fitness. In this article, we will highlight some of the best hiking and camping trails in the Berkshires.
The Appalachian Trail
The Appalachian Trail is one of the most famous hiking trails in the country, stretching over 2,200 miles from Georgia to Maine. The trail passes through the Berkshires and offers a number of great hiking opportunities for those looking for a longer hike. Some of the most popular sections of the trail in the Berkshires include Mount Greylock and the southern Berkshires, which offer a mix of forest, mountain, and valley views.
The Appalachian Trail is a great option for experienced hikers who are looking for a longer and more challenging hike. There are several campsites along the trail, and many of these are accessible by car, so you can make the hike as long or as short as you like.
Mount Greylock
Mount Greylock is the highest peak in Massachusetts, and it offers a challenging hike that is well worth the effort. The mountain is located in the heart of the Berkshires and is surrounded by dense forests, rolling hills, and beautiful streams. The easiest and shortest ascent route from the base to the summit of Mount Greylock is the Cheshire Harbor Trail. Along the way, hikers can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside and take in the fresh mountain air.
At the top of Mount Greylock stands the Veterans War Memorial Tower that provides panoramic views of the surrounding area. The trail is around 7 miles round-trip and takes around 4 hours to complete. There are also several campsites near the summit, so hikers can spend the night and enjoy a peaceful night under the stars, or you can relax at Bascom Lodge.
Monument Mountain
Monument Mountain is a popular hike in the Berkshires and is located in the town of Great Barrington. The mountain is known for its scenic views and challenging trail, and it is a great place to go for a hike or a picnic. The most popular trail to the summit is the Monument Mountain trail, which starts at the parking lot on Route 7 and ascends to the top of the mountain. The trail is around 3 miles round-trip and takes around 2 hours to complete.
Bash Bish Falls
Bash Bish Falls is one of the most popular destinations in the Berkshires, and it is known for its scenic beauty and easy hiking trails. The falls are located in Mount Washington State Forest and can be accessed by car. The trail to the falls is a 1-mile round-trip hike and is suitable for all levels of experience.
The hike to the falls is a gentle walk through a dense forest, and along the way, hikers can enjoy the sound of the falls and take in the beauty of this deep, flourishing gorge. The falls themselves are a breathtaking sight, and there are several picnic areas near the trail, so you can stop and relax for a while.
The Mohawk Trail
For those who prefer a scenic drive rather than a hike, The Mohawk Trail is the one for you. This scenic drive follows Route 2 from Westminster, Massachusetts to Williamstown, Massachusetts, for about 69 miles. There are stops you can take along the way from picturesque viewpoints to gift shops and attractions, there is plenty of entertainment and history to take in. One such attraction is Hail to the Sunrise, a monument to the Mohawk people. It features a prominent statue of a Mohawk Indian and a reflecting pool.
Jug End Loop Trail
A favorite in our neck of the woods is the Jug End Loop Trail in Egremont, Massachusetts. There are 3- and 4-mile hiking options that run through a mix of open fields and woodlands. The start of these trails is a short drive from our store so you can swing by before your hike and make sure you have all your essentials. Once you hit the trail, you’ll find that it’s an easy and enjoyable hike that should take less than two hours even for the longer trail.
Race Brook Falls
In nearby Sheffield, Massachusetts there’s Race Brook Falls. It’s a more difficult hike but worth the effort to see the three-tiered Race Brook Falls, the highlight of the Mt. Everett State Reservation. Along the way you’ll hear the running water while you walk through the dense woods. It’s recommended that you visit in the spring, summer or fall months.
If you’re thinking about taking up hiking and camping, come visit us in the Berkshires or check-out our hiking and camping gear online.
