Biking and Hiking in the Berkshires

The Boulders

Consisting of 645 acres of forest, the Boulders area contains more than 6 miles of trails, guiding you through hemlock and pine forests. While here, you’ll also find dramatic boulder formations that give this area their name. The trails here range from easy to moderate difficulties, from leisurely strolls with little to no elevation gain to trails with some elevation and uneven terrain.

The trails include:

• Healthy Heart Loop: 0.5 miles, easy
• Green Trail: 1.4 miles round-trip, easy
• Red Trail: 2.4 miles round-trip, moderate
• Blue Trail: 2.8 miles round-trip, moderate

If you are looking for some shorter trails for biking, you’ll find that the Boulders can be accommodating.

Mahanna Cobble

• Length: 3.2 miles
• Trail Type: Out-And-Back
• Difficulty: Difficulty

This trail is an excellent example for both the gorgeous views available when Hiking in the Berkshires and the challenge available for seasoned hikers. Much of the difficulty of this trail stems from the many elevation changes along the path. In addition, hikers should exercise caution while traveling the Mahanna Cobble as they cross not one, but two active skiing trails.

Once at the top of the trail, you’ll find a stone bench awaiting you as well as some of the most spectacular views in the area, allowing you to admire Kennedy Park, Yukon Ridge, Pittsfield, and the North Berkshires.

Along the way, you’ll find grand cobble formations, which are exposed bedrock high on a ledge.

Ashuwillticook Rail Trail

• Length: 10.8 miles
• Difficulty: Easy

If you are looking for a long scenic trail to traverse on your bike, Ashuwillticook Rail Trail is a great choice.

This nearly 12 mile long paved trail runs next to Route 8 through the Hoosic River valley from Lanesborough to Adams. Following the path of the old Pittsfield and North Adams Railroad, you’ll find majestic views of the mountains, lakes, and rivers nearby. We highly recommend riding this route during the fall, as the autumn colors are simply breathtaking.

You’ll also find that there are many places that are perfect for picnicking, so packing a lunch can be a great way to relax and destress. You may also get to see some of the wildlife, such as ospreys or herons.

Norwottuck Rail Trail

• Length: 10 miles
• Difficulty: Easy

The Norwottuck Rail Trail is by far one of the most popular trails in the area. On the weekends, you’ll see dog walkers, runners, and bikes along the route, which provides excellent views of the Connecticut River. For the most part, the elevation grade is 5% or less, which makes this an easier trail to enjoy.

One of the biggest perks of this particular trail is the handicap accessibility. There are designated accessible parking spaces just off of Damon Road on the western end of the trail that allows for easy access to the Norwottuck Rail Trail