12 Beautiful Places to Get Outdoors #intheBerkshires

As the weather warms and we all venture outside, eager for scenic hikes, sunset strolls, and the rush of endorphins that accompany movement in nature, the Berkshires’ beautiful rolling hills and blue skies beckon. Here are just 12 of the places you can get outdoors in the Berkshires to soak up the natural wonders of our region. 

Berkshire Natural Resources Council (BNRC)

The mission of BNRC is to “protect and preserve the natural beauty and ecological integrity of the Berkshires for public benefit and enjoyment.” With more than 11,000 acres to explore, your options are boundless. Visitors are invited to hike, run, birdwatch, paint, take photos, hunt for or place geocashes, picnic, and responsibly walk dogs. 

Monk’s Pond

Catamount Mountain Resort

If you live for the rush of wind in your hair, head over to Catamount Mountain Resort where you can tackle the “CataMonster” – at 5,523 feet, it’s the longest zipline in the U.S.! The experience can take two hours, so be sure to book in advance and plan enough time for this adrenaline rush. If you’re up for a physical challenge, check out Catamount’s Aerial Adventure Park “comprised of 12 aerial trails, 180 challenge elements connected by various configurations of cable, wood, and rope to form a unique, fun, challenging and rewarding experience in the trees.” 

The Clark Art Institute

If you prefer a more manicured trek, check out the stunning grounds at the Clark Art Institute in Williamstown. Open year-round for exploration, the 140 acres of grounds have clearly marked trails that wind through woods then meander through an active cow pasture, cresting at the top of Stone Hill where you can enjoy a beautiful view of Williamstown and the Green Mountains of Vermont. Plus, you can peek into the large-scale sculpture called “Crystal,” created by contemporary artist Thomas Schütte. Don’t miss a contemplative rest by the three-tiered  reflective pool. 

The Clark Art Institue, credit Berkshire Family Hikes

Mass Audubon

Mass Audubon, with wild and picturesque sanctuaries such as Pleasant Valley, Canoe Meadows, Lime Kiln, and Tracey Brook, protect more than 38,000 acres across the state. Wander in wonder along scenic hiking trails through varied terrain and ecosystems. Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its busy beavers, while Canoe Meadows is an excellent spot for birdwatching. Find trail maps and visitation details online. 

The Mount, Edith Wharton’s Home

Throughout the pandemic, The Mount, Edith Wharton’s stunningly beautiful historic home and gardens in Lenox, remained open for strolling – and it’s still open and free to the public! The gardens are blooming and the picture-perfect locale is ripe for a romantic jaunt with your quarantine sweetie or some self care spent reading or drawing. The fee for a house tour is well worth it to explore the beautiful indoor décor. 

Mount Greylock State Reservation

At 3,491 feet, Mount Greylock is the highest point in Massachusetts, boasting views of more than 90 miles on clear days. If you want to hike, you can access various trailheads between the base of the mountain and the summit. Check out the online maps to choose your own adventure.

Mount Greylock, credit Ruth Schneider Photography

Natural Bridge State Park

This park in North Adams invites visitors to enjoy the only natural white marble arch in North America, carved by forces of glacial melt over 13,000 years ago. The bridge spans Hudson Brook and twists through “a steep 60-foot gorge–one of the best demonstrations of glacial erosion in New England.” You can also take a tour of an abandoned marble quarry and view a man-made white marble dam. 

State Forests

There is no shortage of state forests in the Berkshires – 15 to be exact, including Savoy Mountain, Pittsfield, October Mountain, and Beartown State Forests, to name just a few. Visitors should check with each location directly for guidelines and availability, but many offer campsites, as well as miles of hiking trails for every skill level, and waterways perfect for warm weather exploration.

Tanglewood Grounds

Tanglewood’s famed Music Festival has returned in full force, but even if you aren’t able to catch a show, you can still enjoy the pristinely manicured lawns that feature some of the Berkshires’ most iconic vistas.

Tanglewood, credit Regina Burgio

TurnPark Art Space

Located in West Stockbridge, TurnPark Art Space covers 16 acres of recreational space that was once a quarry – views include hills, meadows, and breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Berkshire landscape. Along your walk you will enjoy outdoor sculpture.

The Trustees of Reservations

The Trustees of Reservations cares for and protects more than “100 special places” across Massachusetts, making available almost 25,000 acres of preserved land for the public to enjoy by hiking, strolling, biking, birdwatching, and more. Visitors can choose their own adventure – the Berkshires is home to more than a dozen beautiful properties with varied habitats and landscapes. Some of the most popular are Naumkeag, Notchview, Monument Mountain, Field Farm, and Tyringham Cobble. Peruse trail maps and find details online.

credit Sara Hamilton

Water Sports in the Berkshires

The Berkshires afford ample opportunity for water play. Rent equipment from the Arcadian Shop in Lenox or bring your own. White water rafting is an option at Crab Apple Whitewater, which runs trips on Deerfield River dam in Charlemont. You can also seek out waterfalls and swimming holes in which to dip your toes or take a cooling plunge. 

The Berkshires’ natural resources are available to engage your body and nourish your soul. Wherever you adventure #intheBerkshries, stay safe and healthy, and enjoy! Find more ideas for daily adventure here. 

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