A Hiking and Biking Guide - Pioneer Valley Planning Commission

Krug Sugarbush Trails (see map C4)
Norwottock Rail Trail and Network (see map E4-G5)
Brynan Conservation Area in South Hadley consists of 162 acres of small ponds,
pitch pine and oak forest. The woodland trails sprawl in a network over the
property and provide access to diverse habitat and nature watching.
Krug Sugarbush is an 88 acre state property in Chesterfield that features maple
sugaring demonstrations during the month of March. The property’s small
network of unpaved roads is open to the public for hiking year-round.
Location: East end of Lyman Terrace off Old Lyman Road, the end of Bartlett
Street, or New Ludlow Road.
Location: From Route 9 in Williamsburg, take Route 143 to the center of
Chesterfield. Take a left onto South Street, travel about 2 miles, and the Krug’s
Sugarbush will be on the left
The Norwottuck Rail Trail is an 11-mile paved bike path linking Northampton,
Hadley, and Amherst along the former Boston & Maine Railroad right-of-way.
The path’s level terrain provides safe passage for pedestrians, wheelchairs,
joggers, skaters, bicyclists, and cross-country skiers of all ages and abilities.
Motorized vehicles and horses are prohibited. Off Road paths in the network
extend throughout Northampton and Amherst
Brynan Conservation Area Trail (see map F6)
Trail Type: Total Miles of Trails: Difficulty of Trails: Permitted Uses: Parking: Further Information: Cuddeback Trail, Amherst
Amherst Trails and Robert Frost Trail (see map F3-G5)
The Amherst Conservation Department manages and maintains an
extensive network of 25 trails covering 80 miles including portions of the 47
mile Robert Frost Trail. The trail covers a diverse patchwork of habitats, terrain,
and scenery. The trail traverses wetland habitat; ponds; farmland; deep ravines;
wooded ledges; river banks; reservoirs; historic mill ponds; and dense forests.
Location: Amherst
Trail Type:
Various; Off road, blazed path, crushed stone, paved path
Length of Trails: 47 Miles
Difficulty of Trails: Moderate
Permitted Uses: Walking, hiking, snowshoeing, bird watching and picnicking
Parking:
Various Locations
Further Information: Amherst Conservation Department
(413) 259-3333.
Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary Trails (see map E3)
Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary in Easthampton offers over thirteen trails in its 766
acre property. The sanctuary features forest, meadows, marsh, and wetlands.
While walking along Arcadia’s five miles of trails, look for signs of white-tailed
deer, black bear, otter, beaver, and other interesting creatures.
Location: From Interstate 91, get off at exit 18 (Route 5, Northampton). Take
a right onto Route 5 south. After 1.4 miles,take a right onto East Street at the sign
for Easthampton Center. Follow East Street for 1.2 miles and turn right onto
Fort Hill Road at the Mass Audubon sign. Go 0.9 miles and bear right at the next
Mass Audubon sign and turn left into the sanctuary
Trail Type:
Length of Trails: Difficulty of Trails: Permitted Uses: Parking Availability:
Facilities: Further Information: Marked off-road trails and a boardwalk trail
5 Miles Easy
Walking, hiking, snowshoeing, bird watching and picnicking
Designated parking for up to 50 cars at the Nature center
Nature Center and universally accessible restrooms
Mass Audubon (413) 584-3009
Bachelor Brook Conservation Area Trail (see map E6)
Bachelor Brook Conservation Area in South Hadley consists of 284 acres of
diverse landscape and habitat features, ranging from upland forest to open
grassland and power lines, wetland forested floodplain to land in agriculture.
Short walking trails connect the Town Farm property to Bachelor Brook and to
the Connecticut River
Location: From the intersection of State Route 47 and 116 travel west on 47
for 1/2 mile. Access is from a parking lot near the town owned sports fields.
Trail Type: Total Miles of Trails: Difficulty of Trails: Permitted Uses: Parking: Further Information: Unpaved and unmarked walking trail
1 mile (approx)
Moderate
Hiking, hunting, horseback riding, jogging, picnicking, and cross-country skiing.
Designated off street parking for up to 20 cars
South Hadley Conservation Commission
(413) 538-5052
Unpaved and unmarked walking trail
2 mile (approx)
Moderate
Hiking, snow shoeing, and cross-country skiing.
On street parking at three locations
South Hadley Conservation Commission
(413) 538-5052
Laughing Brook Wildlife Sanctuary Trails (see map G9)
Chester-Blandford State Forest contains eight marked off-road trails and three
unpaved roads in its 2,300 acre park. Features include Sanderson Brook Falls (a
60 foot cascade), scenic streams and falls, a mica mine and a gold mine. The H.
Newman Marsh Memorial Trail features a challenging, but rewarding, climb
to the top of Observation Hill, with views spanning up and down the wild and
scenic Westfield River valley. The northeast corner of the park features the easygrade Boulder Park Universal Access interpretive trail and a pavilion amidst
shady Eastern Hemlocks.
The Laughing Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, in Hampden, features woodlands,
meadows, and streams along its four-mile trail system in its 356 acre property.
Laughing Brook was once the home of beloved children’s author Thornton Burgess and the beautiful brook inspired many of his timeless tales.
Location: From Huntington Center: Take Route 20 West from the center of
Huntington. The State Forest will be on the left. From Blandford Center: Follow
MA 23 west from the center of town and turn right on North Street (becomes
Chester Road and then Beulah Land Road).
Trail Type: Length of Trails: Difficulty of Trails: Permitted Uses: Parking: Facilities: Further Information: Marked off-road, unpaved road, handicap accessible.
Eight trails with an unknown total length.
Trails very widely from easy to strenuous
Hiking, mountain biking, camping (restrictions),
horseback riding, cross-country skiing. Two designated parking lots alongside Route 20 and one parking lot on the left side of Beulah Land Road.
Restrooms located by campground. Pavilion at start of interpretative trail.
MA Department of Conservation and Recreation Chester-Blandford State Forest
(413) 354-6347 (summer), (413) 269-6002 (winter)
Chicopee Memorial State Park Trails (see map F7)
Chicopee Memorial State Park has 4 dedicated footpath trails that total 7 miles
and one mountain biking trail. Trail difficulty is easy to moderate. The site
consists 575 acres of hilly wooded terrain with a 24 acre lake fed by Cooley
Brook and its marshland headwaters.
Location: West side of Burnett Road, one mile north of Mass Turnpike
entrance at Interstate 291.
Trail Type:
Length of Trails: Difficulty of Trails: Permitted Uses: Parking:
Facilities: Further Information: Footpath and mountain bike trails
7 miles on five separate trails
Easy to Moderate
Hiking, fishing, picnicking, biking
5 Parking Areas
Picnic areas, a pavilion, campground with showers, beaches, and sanitary facilities with changing room.
MA Department of Conservation and Recreation,
Chicopee Memorial State Park
Conant Brook and the Monson-Brimfield-Wales (MBW)
Trail (see map H9)
Conant Brook in Monson offers 5 miles of trails in its 500 acre property.
Features include the Conant Brook Dam, a rare kettle pond, and scenic views.
The Monson-Brimfield-Wales (MBW) Trail, a loop trail that connects the towns
of Monson, Brimfield and Wales, runs through the property. During the winter
months cross country skiing and snowshoeing can be enjoyed on the wide and
rolling trails.
Location: Take State Route 32 to Wales Road in Monson. Alternately, take
State Route 19 to Monson Road in Wales. Follow signs to the dam
Trail Type:
Marked off-road
Total Miles of Trails:
Five miles spread over more than ten trails
Difficulty of Trails: Moderate
Permitted Uses: Walking, hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, bird watching and picnics. No motorized uses are permitted.
Parking:
3 designated parking areas
Facilities: No facilities available
Further Information: Army Corps of Engineers, (508) 347-3705
The Breckenridge Sanctuary offers a one-mile trail loop trail in its 67 acre
property on Old Goshen Road in Williamsburg. The trail crosses Blake Brook
over a wooden bridge, climbs a steep slope, then splits into a loop. A spur off
the end of the loop runs along the West Branch of the Mill River. The West
Branch of the Mill River is a popular fishing area and is stocked with trout each
year.
Location: Access is off of the south side of Unquomonk Road about one half
mile from South Street
Trail Type: Length of Trail:
Difficulty of Trails: Permitted Uses: Parking: Further Information: Unpaved and unmarked walking trail
1.5 Miles
Moderate
Hiking, wildlife observation, and crosscountry skiing.
Designated off street parking for up to 2 cars
Williamsburg Woodland Trails
Bradley Sanctuary Trail (see map D3)
The Bradley Sanctuary is a 41-acre parcel of land in Williamsburg with approximately 2 miles of trails and paths located on Old Goshen Road. The east side of
the property is bounded by Nichols Brook. The hilltop pine grove features a
towering stand of white pine and winter views of neighboring hillsides.
Location: From Williamsburg center, take Route 9 West for 1.1 miles and
turn right onto Old Goshen Road. Head north on Old Goshen Road for 0.4 mi.
and bear left at the “Y” intersection with Hemenway Road, continuing on Old
Goshen Road. 1.5 mi. from Route 9, look for the small parking pullout on the
right.
Trail Type: Length of Trails: Difficulty of Trails: Permitted Uses: Parking: Further Information: Maintained path
2 miles (approx)
Easy to moderate
Hiking and non-motorized vehicles
Designated parking near the trail head.
Williamsburg Woodland Trails Committee
Brimfield State Forest Trails (see map I9) The Brimfield State Forest has over 18 formal, blazed trails its 1,937 acre rolling,
heavily forested state park, which are available for hiking, walking, horseback
riding, mountain biking, skiing and fishing.
Location: Southwest corner of Brimfield. Traveling west from
Brimfield Center on Route 20, turn left onto Monson Road and left onto Dean
Road. Park entrance will be in 2 miles.
Trail Type: Length of Trails:
Difficulty of Trails: Permitted Uses: Parking Availability:
Facilities: Further Information: Formal & blazed trails off-road trails. All trails, with the exception of off-road trails provide access for visitors with strollers or disabilities.
15 miles
Easy to Moderate. Most are easy but trails are rutty and not maintained.
Hiking, walking, bicycling, mountain biking, skiing (cross-country) and horse back riding.
One designated parking area located at the Dean Pond Recreation Area
Restrooms and Picnic areas available.
MA Department of Conservation and
Recreation, (617) 626-1250.
East Branch Trail (see map C4)
The East Branch Trail in Chesterfield, West Chesterfield, and Huntington runs
through the Gilbert A. Bliss State Forest, the Chesterfield Gorge Reservation, and
the Knightville Reservoir watershed. The East Branch Trail is located in the scenic
Berkshire foothills along the East Branch of the Westfield River. The seven mile
trail, closed to motor vehicles, offers many opportunities to walk, hike, ski, and
bike. Many miles of secondary trails connect the hundreds of acres of protected
lands.
Location:
Just off Route 143 in West Chesterfield at the intersection of Ireland
Street and River Road. Entrance and parking area located along River Road. From
Westfield, west on US Route 20 to Huntington, then north (right) on MA Route
112 about 4 miles to Knightville Dam Road.
Trail Type: Length of Trail:
Difficulty of Trail: Permitted Uses:
Parking:
Facilities: Further Information: Dirt off-road and some single track
Seven miles of primary trail and
Easy
Hiking, cross-country skiing; mountain biking
Parking area located on River Road (20 cars capacity)
Public restrooms, picnic tables, fire rings (fuel wood must be brought in).
The Trustees of Reservations, Chesterfield Gorge
MA Department of Conservation and Recreation,
(413) 268-7098
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Fitzgerald Lake Conservation Area Trails (see map E4)
The 625 acre Fitzgerald Lake Conservation Area in Northampton contains boardwalks and asphalt trails that are handicapped accessible. Most of the approximately 4 miles of trails are off road blazed walking trails. Walking on the trails
that border wetlands, cross streams, and run along Fitzgerald Lake offer great
opportunities to view wildlife.
Location: From exit 19 of 1-91 take Damon road to Bridge Street, turn right on
Mountain Road and right on North Farms Road.
Trail Type: Lenght of Trails: Difficulty of Trails: Permitted Uses: Parking: Further Information: Paved and unpaved sections of marked walking trail
4 mile (approx)
Easy to moderate
Hiking, jogging, picnicking, and cross-country skiing. Entry and parking on North Farms Road, at the Moose Lodge on Cooke Avenue, and on Marian Street
Broad Brook Coalition
Glendale Falls Trail (see map B4)
Glendale Falls, a Trustees of Reservations property in Middlefield, offers two
trails in its 60 acre property. The main feature at this property is Glendale Falls,
which is one of the longest and most powerful waterfall runs in Massachusetts.
In spring, the waters of Glendale Brook roar over steep rock ledges more than 150
feet high before joining the Middle Branch of the Westfield River. A quarter-mile
trail leads to the bottom of the falls and a 0.3 mile woods road leads south to land
owned by the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife.
Location: From intersection of Route 143 and Route 112 in Worthington, take
Route 143 west and follow for 4.2 miles. Turn left onto River Road (becomes East
River Road) and follow for 5.6 miles. Turn right onto Clark Wright Road immediately after bridge and proceed 0.4 miles to entrance
Trail Type: Length of Trails: Difficulty of Trails: Permitted Uses: Parking: Facilities: Further Information: Marked off-road trails
Two trails for total of 1.1 miles
Moderate hiking, strenuous at places
Hiking, bird watching, and picnicking
Designated parking for up to 7 vehicles
Picnic areas
The Trustees of Reservations, Western Region,
(413) 532-1631 x10
Located along the southern border of Massachusetts in the towns of Granville
and Tolland, the Granville State Forest contains 13 off-road trails within its 2,426
acre property. Features at this State Forest include streams and heavily forested
ravines. The Hubbard River cascades through natural rock formations forming
pools and waterfalls, dropping a rapid 450 feet in 2.5 miles. The banks of the scenic Hubbard River provide a popular place for picnicking.
Off-road
1 mile (approx)
Moderate
Hiking
Designated parking for up to 3 cars near the trail head.
Williamsburg Woodland Trails Committee
Big View Trail is a short and steep woodland trail, in Williamsburg, that runs up
to the crest of a 1000 foot ridgeline. The 1.5 mile trail is a single loop starting and
ending at Unquomonk Road. The trail crosses a small intermittent stream just
100 meters from the entrance. The property is privately owned but open to the
public for passive recreation.
Westfield River along the East Branch Trail
Granville State Forest Trails (see map B9-10)
Location: From Williamsburg center, take Route 9 West for 1.1 miles and
turn right onto Old Goshen Road. Head north on Old Goshen Road for 0.4
mi. and bear left at the “Y” intersection with Hemenway Road, continuing on
Old Goshen Road. 1.9 mi. from Route 9, the road crosses the West Branch of
the Mill River and turns to gravel. Look for a small parking pullout on the left
about 100 yards beyond the crossing.
Big View Trail (see map D4)
Unpaved roads
Fewer than three miles of unpaved roads
Easy to moderate
Hiking, walking, mountain biking, horseback riding
Designated area for up two cars
D.A.R. State Forest (413) 268-7098
Chester-Blandford State Forest Trails (see map B6)
The Breckenridge Sanctuary Trail (see map D3)
Trail Type: Total Miles of Trails: Difficulty of Trails: Permitted Uses: Parking: Further Information: Trail Type:
Length of Trails: Difficulty of Trails: Permitted Uses: Parking:
Further Information: Holyole Canal Walk
Holyoke Canalwalk (see map E7)
The Holyoke Canalwalk in downtown Holyoke is a paved urban walkway sited
in an area rich in national and historical significance. It is a wide promenade
between the First and Second Level Canals, and links to urban features including
the Children’s Museum, Heritage State Park and the Volleyball Hall of Fame. It
is being constructed in phases, with the first phase completed near Heritage State
Park.
Location:
From Appleton Street to Dwight Street with additional phases
to come
Trail Type: Length of Trail:
Difficulty of Trail: Permitted Uses:
Parking:
Further Information: Paved concrete
2 miles (upon completion)
Easy
Walking, biking
City streets, Heritage State Park
Holyoke Planning Department
Joseph Allen Skinner State Park and Mount Holyoke
Range State Park Trails (see map E-G5)
These two state parks offer over 30 miles of trails crossing over 3,000 acres. A
variety of outdoor experiences including hiking, walking, mountain biking,
cross-country skiing, horseback riding, and snowshoeing are popular on the two
properties. The New England National Scenic Trail passes through both parks.
From the west, the trail connects Skinner State Park to the Mount Holyoke Range
State Park. Paths from the Summit House in Skinner State Park connect with
marked trails that traverse the Holyoke Range. While the steep terrain makes the
mountain biking difficult it is allowed on all but the white blazed MetacometMonadnock trail. The scenic views are the two parks’ centerpiece. From the
summit of Mount Holyoke, at an elevation of 942 feet, one can enjoy spectacular
views of the Connecticut River Valley. The Summit House, a popular mountaintop hotel in the 1800s, offers displays and interpretive programs. The Notch
Visitors Center off Route 116, in the Mount Holyoke Range is open daily.
Location: The entrance to Skinner State Park is on Route. 47, in Hadley. The
entrance to Mount Holyoke Range State Park is on Route 116, in Amherst.
Trail Type:
Length of Trail:
Difficulty of Trails: Permitted Uses: Parking:
Facilities: Further Information: Connecticut Riverwalk and Bikeway, Springfield
Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway (see map E-F8-9)
Trail Type:
Length of Trails:
Difficulty of Trails: Permitted Uses: Parking:
Facilities: Further Information: Graves Farm Wildlife Sanctuary Trails (see map D3)
Location: Wason at Riverside Road, West Street at West Columbus, State
Street at Riverfront Park in Springfield and along River Road in Agawam
Location: From the Village of Haydenville in Williamsburg, follow Route 9
toward Williamsburg Center. Before Williamsburg Center, take a right onto Depot
Road. Follow Depot Road north, turn right onto Adams Road and follow for 0.6
miles. A small parking lot will be on the south side of the road
Paved Asphalt Multi Use Trail
Approximately 5.4 Miles
Easy
Walking, biking, skating
On Street parking on State Street in Springfield
Pioneer Valley Planning Commission, (413) 781-6045
Daughters of the American Revolution (D.A.R.) State
Forest Trails (see map C-D2)
The D.A.R. State Forest in Goshen contains more than 18 miles of marked, offroad trails in its 2,112 acre park. In total, there are 19 trails including a half mile
handicap accessible trail. The Moose Run Trail, located in the park’s northwestern corner, connects to Chapel Falls, a Trustees of Reservations property in
Ashfield. Features include the Upper and Lower Highland Lakes, which offer a
popular swimming beach, shady picnic area and a group picnic pavilion. Climb
the Goshen fire tower for spectacular views of the Connecticut River Valley and
into five states.
Location: Northeast section of Goshen. The park entrance is on the east side
of Route 112, approximately 0.7 miles north of Route 9.
Trail Type:
Length of Trails: Difficulty of Trails:
Permitted Uses: Parking:
Facilities: Further Information: Off-road marked trails
Eighteen miles of trail including a half mile handi
capped accessible
Easy to moderate
Hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, cross-
country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling
Parking is available at 2 locations.
Restrooms, picnic areas, a pavilion, and campground.
MA Department of Conservation and Recreation D.A.R. State Forest, (413) 268-7098
Fannie Stebbins Memorial Wildlife Refuge Trails
(see map E10)
The Fannie Stebbins Wildlife Refuge in Longmeadow, privately owned by the
Allen Bird Club of Springfield, is registered as a National Landmark with the
National Park Service. The refuge consists of approximately 338 acres of pristine
riverine forest, wet meadows, wetlands and brooks and offers nine walking
trails.
Location: From Route 5 in southern Longmeadow, take Bark Haul Road
west. Cross under I-91 and continue to the intersection with Pondside Road.
Trail Type: Length of Trails:
Difficulty of Trails: Permitted Uses: Parking:
Further Information: Grassy flat wooded trail
Approximately 6 miles
Easy
Birding, snowshoeing, cross country skiing
Park along the road at entrance located at the
intersection of Pondside Road and Bark Haul Road.
Allen Bird Club
2 former cart roads that parallel the lake and
2 wooded trails
Approximately 6.5 miles
Easy to moderate
Hiking, picnicking, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, horseback riding, snowmobiling
Parking areas available at the end of East River Road on the north side of the lake near Dayville Access area, and 2 areas on the south end at the Dam (end of Goss Hill Road); 1 at boat ramp area and 1 at the Park Ranger office.
Picnic area, boat ramp, port-a-potty at boat ramp
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Located in Hawley, Plainfield, and Savoy, the 7,882 acre Dubuque State Forest
offers 35 miles of mixed-use trails, six miles of hiking trails. A one mile interpretive trail loops around Hallockville Pond. An abundance of historic sites including cellar holes from the abandoned village of South Hawley; Moody Springs; a
rare fieldstone “beehive” charcoal kiln; and remains of a mill complex at Hallockville Pond can be found around the property.
Marked off-road trails
Two trails for a total of approximately 1 mile
Easy to moderate
Hiking, walking, snowshoeing
Designated parking for up to 8 cars. Parking is
prohibited along the road
Mass Audubon (800) 710-4550
Hampton Ponds State Park Trail (see map D7)
Located in Westfield, Hampton Pond State Park offers water based recreation
activities and picnicking. The park also offers a designated ½ mile healthy heart
walking trail. The trail is a partially paved path that wanders along the pond and
shoreline.
Location: Located in the south-western part of central Massachusetts. Take
Route I-90 to exit 3, Route 10/202 north, at traffic light follow Route 202 for 2
miles; park is on the left
Trail Type: Length of Trail:
Difficulty of Trail: Permitted Uses: Parking Availability:
Facilities: Further Information: Partially paved flat walking path
½ mile
Easy
Hiking, Walking, Bird watching
5 parking areas
Restrooms, boat ramp, and picnic areas
Department of Conservation and Recreation
Hall Conservation Area Trail (see map D3)
The Hall Conservation Area in Williamsburg includes 17 acres and a trail connecting to two MassAudubon properties to the south for a total of 2.5 miles. Portions
of the trail are on private property but open to the public. Walking the short trail
will take you from stream bank, to wet lowland areas, to mixed deciduous and
evergreen forest, to more shaded hemlock forests, to woodland emerging from an
old pasture
Location:
Trailhead is accessible from south side of O’Neil Road
approximately one half mile west of Depot Road in Williamsburg
Trail Type:
Marked woodland loop trails with two wooden bridges
Length of Trails:
Approximately 2.5 Miles
Difficulty of Trails: Moderate, with portions of hill ascending and
descending slopes
Permitted Uses: Hiking and nature watching
Parking:
Pull off spots for two vehicles
Further Information: Williamsburg Woodland Trails
Metacomet-Monadnock (M&M) Trail view from Mount Holyoke
New England National Scenic Trail (MetacometMonadnock Trail) (see map G3-10)
The New England National Scenic Trail (also known as the Metacomet-Monadnock Trail) runs approximately 114 miles from New Hampshire to Connecticut.
The trail passing through Massachusetts is 80 miles long and passes through 19
separate communities. The trail is blazed with white painted rectangles on trees
and rocks and white diamond-shaped signs. It passes through an array of diverse
eco-systems and features including waterfalls, dramatic cliff faces, exposed
mountain summits, woodlands, swamps, lakes, river flood plain, farmland,
historic sites, and the summits of Mount Tom and Mount Holyoke. The New
England National Scenic Trail connects to many protected open spaces and recreation trails. The Metacomet Trail in Connecticut and the Monadnock-Sunapee
Greenway Trail in New Hampshire continue where the Metacomet-Monadnock
Trail leaves off.
Hampshire and Hampden Counties
Petticoat Hill, in Williamsburg, offers 1.5 miles of trails in its 60 acre property.
Climb through a restored forest that boasts a rich variety of hardwood species,
passing stone walls and cellar holes that reveal the hill’s agricultural past.
Manhan Rail Trail
Manhan Rail Trail (see map E5-6)
The Manhan Rail Trail in Easthampton is a four mile paved multi use path. The
trail runs through the center of town, past local destinations and links Easthampton with Northampton and Holyoke. Naturalist, commuters and those just out
for recreation find enjoyment along the trail. The path’s level terrain provides
safe passage for pedestrians, wheelchairs, joggers, skaters, bicyclists.
Location: Flahrety Park across from Ferry Street or Union Shopping Plaza on
Union Street
Trail Type: Length of Trail:
Permitted Uses: Difficulty of Trails: Further Information: Formal, Paved multi-use, off road recreation trail
4.2 miles
All modes of non-motorized wheeled transport and pedestrian activity
Easy to moderate
Friends of The Manhan Rail Trail
Location: From Route 9 in Williamsburg Center, turn left onto Petticoat Hill
Road and follow 0.2 miles to entrance on left.
Trail Type: Length of Trail: Difficulty of Trails: Permitted Uses: Parking: Facilities: Further Information: Marked paths
1.5 miles
Strenuous hiking in most parts
Hiking, walking, bird watching, cross-country skiing, and picnicking. Mountain biking is not allowed and dogs must be kept on a leash.
Designated parking for up to 2 cars.
Picnic areas
The Trustees of Reservations, (413) 532-163
Peaked Mountain Trails (see map H9-10)
Peaked Mountain, in Monson, a 296-acre Trustees of Reservations property,
offers spectacular views of undisturbed rural and forested landscapes in every
direction from its summit at 1,227 feet. Visitors can hike the top of Peaked
Mountain through a trail network with 3.5 total miles of trails or take an easy
walk around Linden Pond on the 1.5 miles of trails at the property’s Miller
Forest Tract.
Location: From Rte. 32 in Monson turn right onto High St. Take immediate left onto Ely Rd. Proceed 1 mile, then go straight at stop sign onto Lower
Hampden Rd for 1.5 miles. Stay on Lower Hampden Road as it bends sharply
downhill to the right. In .25 mile turn left onto Butler Rd. Continue 0.5 miles to
Miller Forest Tract entrance.
Trail Type:
Length of Trails:
Difficulty of Trails: Permitted Uses: Parking:
Facilities: Further Information: Keystone Arch Bridge Trail
Marked off-road (old fire roads) and dirt single track.
Five miles on eight trails
Peaked Mountain Tract trails are strenuous at places, trails in the Miller Forest Tract trails are easy
Walking, hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, horseback riding, and bird watching.
Miller Forest Tract: parking for up to 6 cars. Tract Entrance: parking for up to 20 cars.
Picnic tables near the Peaked Mountain Tract parking lot and near the Lunden Pond
The Trustees of Reservations, (413) 532.1631
Keystone Arch Bridges Trail (see map A-B5)
Quinebaug Woods Trail (see map J9)
The Keystone Arch Bridges Trail in Middlefield is a 5 mile roundtrip trail that
offers a moderate walk for all ages. There are some extreme drop-offs (children
and pets must be attended at all times) and a number of ancillary trails down to
the river at each bridge. The trail follows the West Branch of the Westfield River
Valley provides access to the beautiful stone arch railroad bridges, known locally
as the Keystone Arches, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The
bridges, the first keystone arch railroad bridges built in America (1841), were
built to carry the Boston and Albany railroad over the deep gorge of the West
Branch.
Quinebaug Woods, in Wales, has a short loop trail in its 36 acre property that
follows the Quinebaug River and then proceeds up and over a steep hillside
with rocky outcrops. On the exposed ridge you’ll find a stone chimney and
foundation steps – all that remain from a cabin built in 1932. From this and other
vantage points, you can take in views of Blake Hill to the east and Hamilton
Reservoir to the south.
Location: Take Route 20 to the town of Chester, Massachusetts. In the center
of town, turn onto Middlefield Street and drive about 2.5 miles headed out of
town. The information sign for the arches is seen on your left at the entrance to
Herbert Cross Road. This is where you should park.
Trail Type: Length of Trail:
Difficulty of Trails: Permitted Uses: Parking:
Further Information: Gravel base trail
2.5 miles (5 miles roundtrip)
Moderate
Hiking, walking, mountain biking.
Park at the Herbert Cross Road entrance
Division of Fisheries and Wildlife
(508) 389-6300
Knightville Dam and Reservoir Trails (see map C5)
The Knightville Dam and Reservoir area are located in Huntington in the scenic
Berkshire foothills along the East Branch of the Westfield River. Former cart
roads and a marked woodland trail follow the river and explore the hillsides of
the 2,430 undeveloped acres.
Location: From Westfield, west on US Route 20 to Huntington, then north
(right) on MA Route 112 about 4 miles to Knightville Dam Road.
Trail Type: 2 old cart roads that parallel the river and 1 wooded trail
Length of Trails:
9 miles
Difficulty of Trails: Easy to Moderate
Permitted Uses: Hiking, snowmobiling, mountain biking, cross
country skiing, and picnicking
Parking:
4 parking areas. 3 parking areas available near dam off Knightville Dam Road; 2 in the picnic area and 1 at the Ranger Station; Visitors can also park further north on the west side of the river at the end of Knightville Wildlife Area road.
Facilities: Picnic area, restrooms, and campground.
Further Information: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Holyoke Range Trail
Mount Tom State Reservation Trails (see map E6)
Mount Tom in Holyoke, and Easthampton boasts fantastic views of the
Connecticut Valley, the Berkshire Mountains to the west and the Pelham Hills
to the east. The New England National Scenic Trail (NENST) passes through the
Reservation, entering from the southwest. The Mount Tom State Reservation
offers 20 miles of formal, blazed, off-road trails (approximately 15 trails in total)
in its 2,082 acre facility, which is available for hiking, walking, snowshoeing and
cross-country skiing.
Location: Entrance three miles from East Street on Route 141 in Easthampton
or four miles south of exit 18 on Route 5 in Holyoke
Trail Type: Length of Trails:
Permitted Uses: Difficulty of Trails: Parking:
Facilities: Formal, blazed, off road
20 miles over 15 separate trails
Hiking, walking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and picnicking.
Easy to moderate
Seven designated parking areas
Restrooms, picnic areas, pavilion, visitor’s center
Noble View Outdoor Center Trails (see map C8)
An Appalachian Mountain Club property in Russell, Ma, Noble View’s 358.5
acres of rural solitude maintain a quiet, pristine mountaintop location offers
breathtaking views of the Pioneer Valley. The 35 miles of trails wind through
woodlands and abandoned farm fields, passing brooks, stone walls, cellar holes,
and diverse habitats including an old growth hemlock stand.
Location: From Route 20 take Route 23 south. Turn left on General Knox
Road, and then right on South Quarter Road. Entrance will be on left after 1.2
miles.
Trail Type:
Length of Trails:
Difficulty of Trails: Permitted Uses: Parking:
Facilities: Further Information: Some marked, some blazed woodland trails
Approximately 35 Miles
Easy to strenuous.
Hiking, walking, snow shoeing, cross-country skiing, and nature watching.
Off street parking for vehicles
Toilets, camping, lodging, information, and programs.
Noble View Outdoor Recreation Center, (413) 210-7593
Location: From the Mass Turnpike (I-90), take Exit 9 to I-84 South. Take Exit
3 to Rt. 20 West. At the intersection with Rt. 148, turn left onto Holland Rd. Follow Holland Rd into Holland, where it becomes Sturbridge Rd. Look for the dam
at the Hamilton Reservoir on your left. Immediately after passing the dam, turn
right onto Dug Hill Rd. The entrance is on the right.
Trail Type: Marked, off-road trail
Length of Trails: 1.1 miles
Difficulty of Trails: Moderate
Permitted Uses: Walking, hiking, cross-country skiing, mountain
biking (with restrictions), horseback riding.
Parking: Designated parking area for up to 3 cars
Further Information: The Trustees Reservations (978) 840-4446
Redstone Rail Trail (see map F9-10)
The Redstone Rail Trail in East Longmeadow connects two major destinations in
town. The wide and flat asphalt path connects town soccer fields, an industrial
district with the center of town. The 1.8 mile trail passes by fields, wetlands, and
wooded areas.
Location:
From the rotary in the center of town travel ¼ mile west on Maple
Street. From Shaker Road travel ¼ mile west on Denslow Road
Trail Type: Length of Trail:
Difficulty of Trail: Permitted Uses:
Parking:
Further Information: Trail Type:
Length of Trails:
Difficulty of Trails: Permitted Uses: Parking:
Facilities: Further Information: Paved roads, unpaved roads, marked off-road trails
Quabbin Park: 22 miles
Quabbin Reservoir Watershed System: 100+ miles
Easy to moderate
Hiking, walking, bicycling, snowshoeing, bird
watching, shoreline fishing, and picnicking
Parking allowed at designated parking areas through-
out the Reservoir Watershed System
Quabbin Park: Visitors Center, picnic areas, parking, restrooms and lookout tower. Quabbin Reservoir Watershed System: Portable toilets throughout
property, mostly near public access gates
Quabbin Visitor Center (413) 323-7221
Paved multi-use trail
1.75 miles
Easy
Walking, biking, and inline skating
Parking area located
East Longmeadow Conservation Commission
(413) 525-5437
Pioneer Valley Regional Trail Map
Prepared by the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission, 2010
The Pioneer Valley region has an extraordinary bounty of natural
beauty and trail systems designed to help the public enjoy it. From
the New England National Scenic Trail to the Connecticut
Riverwalk and Bikeway and from the Norwottuck Trail to the
Westfield National Wild and Scenic River, there are outstanding
opportunities for outdoor recreation here.
This map is intended to encourage residents of the Pioneer Valley
and visitors to get outdoors and experience the incredible
opportunities for outdoor recreation, exercise and enjoying nature
on the beautiful hiking and bicycling trails of the Pioneer Valley.
This map is a sampler, designed to inform people about the
locations and features of trails near them. It includes a regional
map showing trail locations, and narrative descriptions of trails,
including trail length, difficulty and features. It is not intended as
a substitute for a detailed trail-specific map, or topographic map.
Trail users should consult this regional trail map to identify trails
they are interested in using, then seek a more detailed trails map
or topographic map before going out hiking or biking.
Various surfaces and levels of marking.
114 miles
The trail is considered easy hiking, with sections of rugged and moderately difficult hiking along the Holyoke and Mount Tom ranges.
The trail is primarily used for hiking, back
packing, and in the winter, snowshoeing. Portions of the trail are used for mountain biking and crosscountry skiing. Uses permitted on the sections of the trail are determined by the property owner hosting the trail.
There are 11 parking areas along the trail.
There are several primitive lean-tos and campsites, and a few state park campsites with facilities along the trail. However, camping is discouraged in many areas.
Petticoat Hill Trail (see map D3-4)
Location: Dubuque State Forest is located in the northern Berkshires in
western Massachusetts off Route 8A. Follow Route 8a to SCA/Hallockville Pond
entrance and parking
A Hiking and Biking
Guide
Location: Quabbin Park: Park Entrance is on left side of Route 9, located 3
miles east of the intersection of Route 9 and Route 202 in Belchertown. Quabbin
Reservoir Watershed System: Designated gates along Route 202, 122, and Route
32A. See DCR maps for public access areas
Trail Type:
Length of Trail:
Difficulty of Trails:
Permitted Uses: Parking:
Facilities: The Graves Farm Wildlife Sanctuary in Williamsburg offers two loop trails and in
its 645 acre property. This Mass Audubon sanctuary features a mixed forest of
spectacular pine, oak, and beech trees and pristine cold-water streams.
Trail Type:
Length of Trails: Difficulty of Trails: Permitted Uses: Parking:
Further Information: The most popular area to enjoy the reservoir is Quabbin Park, which runs
alongside Winsor Dam. Visitors can walk or bicycle throughout the park on
designated paths. A hiking trail to the Big Quabbin Hill look-out tower offers
magnificent views of the Reservoir. A variety of marked woodland trails starting
at many Quabbin gates lead visitors to remote wilderness, past old foundations
and stone walls, which are evidence of the population that resided here prior to
the flooding of the Swift River Valley in the 1930s.
Location: Woodland and paved-road trails
Thirteen separate trails
Easy to strenuous
Hiking, walking, horseback riding, camping, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing
3 designated locations throughout the park
Campground, restrooms, well-water, showers
Granville State Forest (413) 357-6611
The Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway is a paved multi-use path that follows
the east bank of the river in Springfield and the west bank in Agawam. The 1.7
mile portion in Agawam and the 3.7 mile stretch in Springfield offer great vistas
and smooth travel along the river.
Trails Type:
Length of Trails:
Difficulty of Trails: Permitted Uses: Parking:
Further Information: Trail Type:
Length of Trails:
Difficulty of Trails: Permitted Uses: Parking:
Facilities: Further Information: (see map B-C1)
Location: Southwest corner of Granville. From the center of Granville, take
Route 57 west; turn left onto West Hartland Road
Quabbin Reservoir Watershed Trails (see map G3-H6)
Created in 1965 when the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers built a flood-control
dam on the Middle Branch of the Westfield River, Littleville Lake is a 1,567 acre
park in Huntington that offers visitors a variety of outdoor activities. There are
4 trails wandering along both sides of the lake offering beautiful scenic vistas.
Situated in the scenic Berkshire Hills, the park offers superb paddling, fishing,
hiking, picnicking, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, horseback riding, and
snowmobiling.
Off-road marked trails and paved road
Approximately 12 miles
Most moderate to strenuous
Hiking, walking, mountain biking, cross-country
skiing, snowshoeing, picnicking,
4 designated parking areas, including the
Summit House
Picnic sites and restrooms at the summit.
Massachusetts Department of Conservation and
Recreation, (413) 586-0350
Paved, unpaved, multi-use
Approximately 17 miles
Moderate
Hiking, horseback riding, mountain
biking, cross country skiing.
3 designated parking areas; 2 off Route 8a at King Corner Road and Hallockville Road; 1 parking area on the east side of the forest at the intersection of Plainfield Road and Kiln Road; Access is free
No services available. Carry-in, carry-out all your belongings and trash.
Quabbin Reservoir Trails
Littleville Lake Trails (see map C5-6)
Kenneth Dubuque Memorial State Forest Trails
Trail Type: Length of Trails:
Difficulty of Trails: Permitted Uses: Parking:
Facilities: Trail Type: Formal, paved, multi-use off road recreation trail
Length of Trail:
14 miles
Permitted Uses: All modes of non-motorized wheeled transport and pedestrian activity
Difficulty of Trails: Easy
Facilities: Information kiosk, bike rack, water fountain
Further Information: MA Department of Conservation and Recreation
(413) 586-8706 ext. 12
Marked off-road trails
Six trails cover four miles
Easy to moderate
Walking, hiking, snowshoeing, bird watching
Designated parking at the entrance for up to 20 cars
Pavilion and one picnic table
Mass Audubon Society (800) 710-4550
Location: From Route 20, travel north on Route 112 north for 3 miles, go left
at Littleville Road to the dam.
TRAILS
Location: Free parking at Elwell State Park, entrance on Damon Road just
north of Route 9 or Station Road in Amherst, many other access points
Location: From the west travel east on Main Street in Hampden. From the
east, travel west on Monson Road in Hampden. The sanctuary entrance is off of
Main Street on the left.
Trail Type:
Length of Trails:
Difficulty of Trails: Permitted Uses: Parking:
Facilities: Further Information: PIONEER VALLEY
Prepared in cooperation with the Massachusetts Department of Transportation
and the U.S. Department of Transportation – Federal Highway Administration
and the Federal Transit Administration. The views and opinions of the
Pioneer Valley Planning Commission expressed herein do not necessarily reflect
those of the U.S. Department of Transportation.
Road’s End Trail
Road’s End Wildlife Sanctuary Trail (see map B3)
The Road’s End Wildlife Sanctuary, in Worthington, offers a short 1-mile loop
trail in its 157 acre property. The Sanctuary features a diverse landscape of fields,
forest, and wetlands and runs along the height of a long ridge and offers
occasional views of the surrounding Berkshire Hills.
Location: From downtown Northampton, follow Route 9 west through
Williamsburg. Take a left onto Route 143 west and follow it for approximately
12 miles to the intersection of Route 143 and Route 112 (Clark Road). Take a right
onto Route 112 north and a quick left onto Corbett Road (dirt road). The Sanctuary is located at the end of Corbett Road. Note: Corbett Road is impassable
during the winter and mud season.
Trail Type:
Length of Trails:
Difficulty of Trails: Permitted Uses: Parking:
Further Information: Marked off-road
Approximately 1 mile
Easy to moderate
Hiking, walking, snowshoeing, picnicking
Seasonal parking at the end of the road
Massachusetts Audubon Society
(978) 464-2712
Robinson State Park Trails (see map D-E9)
Approximately 20 miles of trails in the park are shared by walkers, hikers,
mountain bikers and horseback riders. Many of them offer scenic views of the
Westfield River, including the 17 acre island west of the Mittineague Falls, which
is one of the park’s most picturesque spots. Many former automobile roads
which run along the Westfield River and through the woods are popular with
bikers and hikers.
Location: From Memorial Avenue in West Springfield, turn right on
Springfield Street. Continue onto North Street and park will be on right.
Trail Type: Paved and unpaved sections of marked walking trail
Total Miles of Trails: 20 mile (approx)
Difficulty of Trails: Easy to moderate
Permitted Uses: Hiking, jogging, picnicking, biking, and cross-country skiing
Parking: Available at North Street entrance
Facilities: Accessible bathrooms and picnic areas
Further Information: Massachusetts Department of Conservation
and Recreation, (413) 586-0350
Southwick Rails to Trails (see map D9-10)
The Southwick Rails to Trails links to connected trails in Connecticut and Massachusetts. The seven-mile section of trail in Southwick, Massachusetts follows the
former New Haven to Northampton canal and connects to the Farmington Canal
Heritage Trail to the south. A flat, smooth paved asphalt surface makes the trail
popular with cyclists.
Location:
From College Highway (Route 10) travel east on route 168 to
Miller Street parking area
Trail Type: Length of Trail:
Difficulty of Trail: Permitted Uses:
Parking:
Further Information: Paved multi-use trail
Seven miles
Easy
Hiking, biking, and inline skating
Parking area located
Southwick Conservation Commission, (413) 569-5701
PVPC appreciates the support of the Mass. Department of Conservation and
Recreation, Division of State Parks and Recreation, Bureau of Forestry,
Management Forestry Program for providing trails mapping data for state forests
and parks.
Appreciation to The Army Corps of Engineers, Belchertown Land Trust, Broad
Brook Coalition, HilltownLand Trust, The Kestrel Trust, Massachusetts Audubon
Association, Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation,
Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection, South Hadley Conservation Commission, Springfield Water and Sewer Commission, The Trustees of
Reservations, Williamsburg Woodland Trails Committee and the many individuals and groups who contributed information for the production of this document.
All photographs by Christopher Curtis.
Tolland State Forest Trails (see map A8)
Tolland State Forest, in Otis, Blandford, and Tolland, contains over eleven trails
in its 1,065 acre park, which are available for walking, hiking, mountain biking,
horseback riding, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and off-road vehicles.
The Tolland State Forest surrounds the Otis Reservoir, which is the largest
recreational water body in Massachusetts. The reservoir is a very popular
summer destination for boating, swimming, fishing, picnicking and camping.
Location: Take U.S. Route 20 west to MA Route 23 in Russell. Continue on
MA 23 west. Turn left onto West Shore Road Park approximately 0.5 miles past
East Otis village. Turn left on to Tolland Road. Follow brown lead-in signs to
campground and day-use area.
Trail Type: Length of Trails: Difficulty of Trails: Permitted Uses: Parking: Facilities: Further Information: Off road marked hiking trails, unpaved roads, and ORV/mountain bike/snowmobile trails.
Over 25 miles on 11 trails
Easy to moderate
Hiking, mountain biking, off-road vehicles, horseback riding, camping, skiing (cross-country), and
snowmobiling
One parking lot on the west side of Route 8, just
before Gate #3. Otherwise, park visitors can park alongside the road within the park.
Restrooms, picnic areas, campground, boat launch
MA Department of Conservation and
Recreation, Tolland State Forest
Westfield Riverside Trail (see map D8)
The Westfield Riverside Trail runs for 1.5 miles along the Westfield River near
downtown Westfield. This gravel path affords opportunities for bird watching,
walking, scenic vistas and picnicking.
Location:
Downtown Westfield
Trail Type: Length of Trail:
Difficulty of Trail: Permitted Uses:
Parking:
Further Information: Gravel
1.5 miles
Easy
Walking, birdwatching, picnicking
Parking and access located just east of Great River Bridge and off Meadow Street
Westfield River Watershed Association and Westfield Conservation Commission, call (413) 532 7290
Stanley Park Trails (see map D8)
Five trails in the Frank Stanley Beveridge Wildlife Sanctuary at Stanley Park offer
many opportunities to explore the property. Several boardwalks on the trail
provide passage when the Little River floods the land and during wet weather.
Location: From the center of Westfield take Court Street west. Court Street
turns into Western Avenue. Park entrance is on left after 1.5 miles
Trail Type: Various
Total Miles of Trails: 3 mile (approx)
Difficulty of Trails: Moderate
Permitted Uses: Hiking, biking, skiing, and jogging,
Parking: Designated Parking in lot
Further Information: (413) 568-9312
Stevens Hiking Trail (see map C5)
The Stevens Hiking Trail, in Huntington, is a 1.2 mile walking trail on part of a
379-acre property. This beautiful trail winds through a wooded landscape studded with hundreds of large boulders covered in mosses, ferns and lichens. It
passes a very early cellar hole and maple sugarhouse ruin, climbs up and down
steep slopes, and crosses a moist stream valley.
Location: At the highest point on Route 66, 0.4 mile west of the Westhampton-Huntington town line, turn north off Route 66 onto Allen Coit Road. Go 0.4
mile to the intersection with Pisgah Road and bear right onto Pisgah. Go 2.4 mile
north from that intersection to Hilltown Land Trust’s unmarked parking pullout
and small clearing at break in stone wall on the right.
Trail Type: Marked off-road
Length of Trails: 1.2 mile
Difficulty of Trails: Moderate to difficult
Permitted Uses: Hiking and snowshoeing
Parking: Designated, but unmarked parking pullout for 2-3 cars.
Further Information: Hilltown Land Trust
Rivulet Trail
William Cullen Bryant Homestead Trails (see map B2)
The William Cullen Bryant Homestead in Cummington offers 2.5 miles of
footpaths and carriage roads in its 195 acre property. The pastoral estate has
remained largely unchanged for more than 150 years.
Location: Take Rt. 9 west through Northampton, Williamsburg, and Goshen.
Where Rt. 9 joins Rt. 112 in Goshen to Cummington. Turn left onto Rt. 112 South.
Trail Type:
Marked off-road trails and unpaved roads
Length of Trails:
2.5 miles
Difficulty of Trails: Moderate
Permitted Uses: Walking, hiking, cross-country skiing, bird watching, and picnicking
Parking:
Designated parking for 10 cars
Facilities: Restrooms, visitors center, picnic tables
Further Information: The Trustees of Reservations (413) 634-2244