Five Rare Hikes & Explorations in the Berkshires

There are many known hikes in Berkshires-- Monument Mountain, Mt. Greylock, Mt. Everett-- but where are the quieter, less traveled trails of the Berkshires? As Berkshire residents, we have our spots and we would love to share some of our favorites with you.

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  • 1

    117 Old Spaulding Rd., Norfolk, Connecticut 06058
    (860) 424-3200

    Campbell Falls State Park Reserve was a gift to the State of Connecticut and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts from the White Memorial Foundation of Litchfield Connecticut.  The Whiting River, rising in Massachusetts falls nearly 100 feet here before entering Connecticut.  The park was placed under protection of the two states in 1923 and special laws were passed in 1924 to authorize the cooperation in care and maintenance of the park. The easiest way to access Campbell Falls Parking is to park along Campbell Falls Road and walk 0.14 miles down the trail. If you start there however, you will miss a casual walk through a very nice forest, and some interesting rocks.

    Insider's Tip: The waterfalls are a great spot to picnic so we recommend packing a lunch and taking in this incredible water feature. Be sure to leave no trace of your presence here including any scrap food as it has a detrimental effect on wildlife.

  • 2

    1041 Cascade St., Pittsfield, Massachusetts 01201
    (413) 442-8992

    When people hear "Pittsfield" in a place name they certainly are not likely to imagine some of the most scenic wildlands in the Berkshires. This 11,000-acre forest includes Berry Pond and 30 miles of trails. From the Taconic Crest to the Tranquility, you're sure to find an adventure that's right for you. Be sure to visit nearby Balance Rock State Park, located in the northeastern corner of the forest. Here you'll find a 165-ton boulder balancing itself on bedrock.

    Insider's Tip: The trail to Berry Pond is one of the most spectacular, so for your first hike here, you may want to start there.

  • 3

    Town of Mount Washington, Massachusetts MA 01258

    The Appalachian Trail (A.T.) runs along the ravine which is an incredible site to visit especially if the snow is melting or during the wetter times of the year. During these times, the brook and cascading water makes for a stunning sight. For the more adventurous seeking a workout, try Undermountain Trail to the A.T. From there you can go to Sage's Ravine then onto Bear Mountain which is Connecticut's highest peak and has wonderful views.

    Insider's Tip: This is one of the best spots to be still and silent. There are rarely crowds here and the natural world there is very refreshing.

  • 4

    260 Central Shaft Road, Florida, Massachusetts 01247
    (413) 663-8469

    10,200 acres managed by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, and located in the towns of Savoy, Florida, Adams and North Adams. Savoy Mountain has many miles of wooded trails offering opportunities for year-round passive recreation. Much of this state forest was acquired by Massachusetts beginning in1918, assembled from abandoned farmland. Many farming residents, tired of poor conditions, had moved into valley towns of Adams and North Adams to work in the woolen mills, or headed west for better farmland. The evidence of these farms remains with old orchards and stone fences and a cellar hole found along the Busby Trail. You csn use the Busby Trail to get to Spruce Hill which aside from the waterfalls is one of main attractions in the park.

    Insider's Tip: The Lost Pond Trail and the Hoosac Ridge Trail are two of the finest hikes in the park. This park is not far from North Adams at all so plan your trip accordingly.

  • 5

    1 North Street, Dalton, Massachusetts 01226
    (413) 442-8992

    This is a great spot for a very short and rewarding hike. The Wahconah Falls Brook flows over several smaller falls before ending in the 40-foot Wahconah Falls. The cascade is scenic any time of year, but is especially impressive during the spring runoff. Visitors can also relax, picnic, or fish in the shade of the northern hardwood forest. A half-mile loop along the upper falls offers lovely views.

    Insider's Tip: When you hear waterfalls, you may think of swimming, but prospective visitors should know that swimming is not allowed in the park.