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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260516T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260516T170000
DTSTAMP:20260518T100442
CREATED:20260224T181652Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260224T214302Z
UID:71069-1778922000-1778950800@westernmasshilltownhikers.com
SUMMARY:Hilltown Hikers at Chester On Track
DESCRIPTION:The Hilltown Hikers will be at Chester On Track 2026 at TWO Locations: \n-The Chester Granite Saw\, 9 Prospect Street Chester\, MA  01011 across from the Historic Railroad Museum \nAND \n-Chester Factory Village on Main Street\, Chester\, MA  01011  across from the Historic Pease Store \nGuided Tours on May 16th during Chester On Track 9am to 5pm \nThe Hilltown Hikers are pleased to announce a day of open tours at our Historic Granite Saw property in Chester.  Our tour guides will be at 9 Prospect Street across from the Historic Chester Railway Station from 9am to 5pm. There is also a foot path entrance located across from Emery Ballfield on Emery Street. Historical tours are on a rolling basis with no need to register.  Historical artifacts\, media boards and more all from this era will be on display.  Take home a piece of “Chester Blue Granite” for all who visit! \nThe Chester Granite Saw is a stone cutting and finishing plant established in 1870 in Historic Chester Factory Village. It was purchased by the current President of the Western Mass Hilltown Hikers in September 2023 and donated to that non-profit to conserve and historically preserve the entire mill operation. \nIt is open to the public dawn to dusk every day with a walking path that passes by the old buildings\, machinery and the ten-foot diameter shot saw structure which is still standing today. The Hilltown Hikers and its volunteers are cleaning up this property after eighty years of abandonment by cutting back invasive species\, dead ash trees\, fallen trees and eight to twelve inches of sediment that has covered its floors. This project is one of a kind in Western Massachusetts as the first stone finishing plant in the area where granite and even on occasion\, marble was brought to Chester to be cut and finished for monuments\, historical buildings and more and shipped throughout the country by rail on its own Boston and Albany siding which visitors can see today. Be a part of this historic project to be enjoyed by generations to come by donating or volunteering on www.hilltownhikers.com. \nThe Hilltown Hikers will also have a second venue on Main Street across from the Historic Pease Store! \nRaffles\, Granite Saw and Lost Railroad shirts\, safety vests\, water bottles\, free handouts and more! \n \nWant to hike every weekend year round? Become a Hilltown Hiker Member! Get access to our private Messenger Group Text with hike and event announcements that are member exclusive events.  You can sign up securely with a credit card on our shopping page here  \nFollow us on Facebook\, Instagram\, TikTok\, and YouTube. Tees\, hoodies\, hats\, patches\, water bottles and safety vests will be for sale by donation at the event.  See all our events\, maps\, blog and photos at www.hilltownhikers.com Please keep our beautiful places clean and carry in and carry out. \nDonate here: \nVia our website Western Mass Hilltown Hikers \nVia Paypal at paypal.me/hilltownhikers  \nVia Venmo:  @hilltownhikers \nVia Square: Home | Western Mass Hilltown Hikers (square.site)   \nGROUP HIKES AND TOURS SINCE 2010\nMission Statement:  Western Mass Hilltown Hikers\, Inc. is organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes to engage in all legal activities relating to the development\, maintenance and operation of historical properties and tours\, recreational hiking and outdoor adventure in Western Massachusetts.  Western Mass Hilltown Hikers\, Inc. provides monthly\, guided group tours of historical hiking destinations in various locations of Western Massachusetts. We also provide volunteer trail maintenance for trails\, maintain our historic conserved properties and provide educational presentations to other civic groups\, non-profit organizations\, libraries and schools.  We are a non-profit 501C(3) organization incorporated in the State of Massachusetts. Tax ID #86-2532249 \nShare this:Tweet\n				Email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)\n				Email\n			\n				Print (Opens in new window)\n				Print\n			MoreLike this:Like Loading…
URL:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/event/hilltown-hikers-at-chester-on-track/
LOCATION:Chester Railway Museum\, 10 Prospect Street\, Chester\, MA\, 01011\, United States
CATEGORIES:Group Hikes,Social Events/Fundraisers
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Compress_20240519_082214_4703.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Western Mass Hilltown Hikers":MAILTO:westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260516T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260516T170000
DTSTAMP:20260518T100442
CREATED:20260224T180850Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260224T214514Z
UID:71064-1778922000-1778950800@westernmasshilltownhikers.com
SUMMARY:Open House and Tours at the Granite Saw
DESCRIPTION:Guided Tours on May 16th during Chester On Track 9am to 5pm \nThe Hilltown Hikers are pleased to announce a day of open tours at our Historic Granite Saw property in Chester.  Our tour guides will be at 9 Prospect Street across from the Historic Chester Railway Station from 9am to 5pm. There is also a foot path entrance located across from Emery Ballfield on Emery Street. Historical tours are on a rolling basis with no need to register.  Historical artifacts\, media boards and more all from this era will be on display.  Take home a piece of “Chester Blue Granite” for all who visit! \nThe Chester Granite Saw is a stone cutting and finishing plant established in 1870 in Historic Chester Factory Village. It was purchased by the current President of the Western Mass Hilltown Hikers in September 2023 and donated to that non-profit to conserve and historically preserve the entire mill operation. \nIt is open to the public dawn to dusk every day with a walking path that passes by the old buildings\, machinery and the ten-foot diameter shot saw structure which is still standing today. The Hilltown Hikers and its volunteers are cleaning up this property after eighty years of abandonment by cutting back invasive species\, dead ash trees\, fallen trees and eight to twelve inches of sediment that has covered its floors. This project is one of a kind in Western Massachusetts as the first stone finishing plant in the area where granite and even on occasion\, marble was brought to Chester to be cut and finished for monuments\, historical buildings and more and shipped throughout the country by rail on its own Boston and Albany siding which visitors can see today. Be a part of this historic project to be enjoyed by generations to come by donating or volunteering on www.hilltownhikers.com. \nThe Hilltown Hikers will also have a second venue on Main Street across from the Historic Pease Store! \nRaffles\, Granite Saw and Lost Railroad shirts\, safety vests\, water bottles\, free handouts and more! \n \nWant to hike every weekend year round? Become a Hilltown Hiker Member! Get access to our private Messenger Group Text with hike and event announcements that are member exclusive events.  You can sign up securely with a credit card on our shopping page here  \nFollow us on Facebook\, Instagram\, TikTok\, and YouTube. Tees\, hoodies\, hats\, patches\, water bottles and safety vests will be for sale by donation at the event.  See all our events\, maps\, blog and photos at www.hilltownhikers.com Please keep our beautiful places clean and carry in and carry out. \nDonate here: \nVia our website Western Mass Hilltown Hikers \nVia Paypal at paypal.me/hilltownhikers  \nVia Venmo:  @hilltownhikers \nVia Square: Home | Western Mass Hilltown Hikers (square.site)   \nGROUP HIKES AND TOURS SINCE 2010\nMission Statement:  Western Mass Hilltown Hikers\, Inc. is organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes to engage in all legal activities relating to the development\, maintenance and operation of historical properties and tours\, recreational hiking and outdoor adventure in Western Massachusetts.  Western Mass Hilltown Hikers\, Inc. provides monthly\, guided group tours of historical hiking destinations in various locations of Western Massachusetts. We also provide volunteer trail maintenance for trails\, maintain our historic conserved properties and provide educational presentations to other civic groups\, non-profit organizations\, libraries and schools.  We are a non-profit 501C(3) organization incorporated in the State of Massachusetts. Tax ID #86-2532249 \nShare this:Tweet\n				Email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)\n				Email\n			\n				Print (Opens in new window)\n				Print\n			MoreLike this:Like Loading…
URL:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/event/open-house-and-tours-at-the-granite-saw/
LOCATION:Chester Granite and Polishing Works\, 9 Prospect Street\, Chester\, Ma\, 01011
CATEGORIES:Group Hikes,Social Events/Fundraisers
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Compress_20251204_073054_4084.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Western Mass Hilltown Hikers":MAILTO:westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260425T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260425T143000
DTSTAMP:20260518T100442
CREATED:20260130T230129Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260304T234648Z
UID:70481-1777111200-1777127400@westernmasshilltownhikers.com
SUMMARY:Berkshire National Fish Hatchery Hike in New Marlborough and Fly Tying Clinic
DESCRIPTION:April 25th at 10:00 am for the Hike \nBarbecue Lunch on the grill sponsored by the Friends of the Berkshire National Fish Hatchery  \nOptional Fly Tying demo/lesson after lunch \nHike Rating:  Easy to Moderate 2.50 mile loop with 435 ft of elevation gain.  Sights to see:  cellar holes\, charcoaling site\, glacial kettle\, town boundary post \n\nBerkshire National Fish Hatchery\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n(413) 528-9761\n\n\n\n\n\n240 Hatchery Road  New Marlborough\, MA  01230\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLocated one-half mile north of the hamlet of Hartsville\, the Berkshire National Fish Hatchery (or the Hatchery to locals) was established along the Konkapot River in the late nineteenth century by Dr. Samuel Camp. Dr. Camp designed the Hatchery to be a place where he could entertain his friends “on the fat of his own land.” He selected the site for its immediate proximity to the spring at the base of the mountain that flowed through a 10-inch pipe and ran a cool 48 degrees year-round. \nMuch of Dr. Camp’s original vision and structure remains today. The Berkshire National Fish Hatchery is situated on 148 acres of forested land that is the source of a pristine aquifer\, supplying 200 gallons per minute of the pure Oxygen-rich water trout love through various pools. We raise brook trout for local recreation and educational programs throughout Berkshire County. Our woodland trails that surround the aquifer are home to many diverse species of wildlife\, making the Hatchery a special place for learning about not only fish culture\, but also about the natural history of the Berkshires. \nThe Berkshire National Fish Hatchery is a cold-water aquaculture facility that lies on 148 acres in Berkshire County\, in northern New Marlborough\, Massachusetts.  It’s primary mission is supporting the restoration of lake trout populations in the Lower Great Lakes by supplying lake trout eggs to other federal hatcheries and rearing native brook trout for stocking in local waterways to support recreational fishing and educational programs. They operate under the supervision of the USFWS and the Berkshire Hatchery Foundation to support the restoration of lake trout populations in the Lower Great Lakes by supplying lake trout eggs to other federal hatcheries. These eggs are hatched\, grown and stocked into Lakes Ontario and Erie. The restoration efforts are part of the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative. They  produce upwards of 1.2 million fertilized Seneca lake wild strain lake trout every year. The conservation efforts both enhance the lake trout population and habitat\, but also provide recreational fishing opportunities to anglers in the area. The hatchery contains a shop\, a fish-rearing hatchery including ten circular pools\, two raceways\, and three ponds\, trails for recreational use\, an outreach pond\, and visitor parking areas. Situated on a 148-acre tract of land\, the property spans across the township line between New Marlborough and Monterey and is characterized by steep hills\, minimal level topography\, and dense mature forests. The Konkapot River flows through the western-most portion of the property\, along the west side of Hatchery Road. The hatchery complex is situated in the southwest corner of the tract and consists of six primary buildings as well as associated structures including 10 concrete rearing pools\, a raceway\, four ponds\, and memorial monument. Additions features include a shed\, visitors’ kiosk\, and nature trails. Water is supplied by a well field with a catch basin and well house that channel the natural springs that flow throughout the property.  \nFriends of the Berkshire National Fish Hatchery \n“We support and partner with the US Fish & Wildlife Service to help sustain the Hatchery and ensure it thrives. We encourage public appreciation for and support of the Hatchery\, freshwater ecosystems\, and recreational fishing in the Berkshires.” \n\nWe engage and educate the public about the fish hatchery and related conservation\, restoration and ecosystems;\nWe support the education of school age youth and educators; and\nWe encourage and support environmentally responsible recreational fishing.\n\nFishing Derbies \nJoin the Friends of the Berkshire National Fish Hatchery for 2026 derbies! Open to children ages 13 and under\, each second Saturday of the month from 9-10:30AM\, April-September\, at the fishing pond on Hatchery Road.  Learn to fish\, and compete for prizes. No child goes away empty handed. \nRegister \nPlease Register per vehicle on https://events.ticketleap.com/events/westernmasshilltownhikers  Maps and bottled water provided.  Well behaved dogs welcome. Event is volunteer lead. Suggested donation is $15.  More details are on www.hilltownhikers.com .  Please email westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com or call/text 413-302-0312 if you have any questions.  As always be prepared for rocks\, mud and roots\, bring trekking poles and a snack! \nWant to hike every weekend year round? Become a Hilltown Hiker Member! Get access to our private Messenger Group Text with hike and event announcements that are member exclusive events.  You can sign up securely with a credit card on our shopping page here  \nFollow us on Facebook\, Instagram\, TikTok\, and YouTube. Tees\, hoodies\, hats\, patches\, water bottles and safety vests will be for sale by donation at the event.  See all our events\, maps\, blog and photos at www.hilltownhikers.com Please keep our beautiful places clean and carry in and carry out. \nDonate here: \nVia our website Western Mass Hilltown Hikers \nVia Paypal at paypal.me/hilltownhikers  \nVia Venmo:  @hilltownhikers \nVia Square: Home | Western Mass Hilltown Hikers (square.site)   \nGROUP HIKES AND TOURS SINCE 2010\nMission Statement:  Western Mass Hilltown Hikers\, Inc. is organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes to engage in all legal activities relating to the development\, maintenance and operation of historical properties and tours\, recreational hiking and outdoor adventure in Western Massachusetts.  Western Mass Hilltown Hikers\, Inc. provides monthly\, guided group tours of historical hiking destinations in various locations of Western Massachusetts. We also provide volunteer trail maintenance for trails\, maintain our historic conserved properties and provide educational presentations to other civic groups\, non-profit organizations\, libraries and schools.  We are a non-profit 501C(3) organization incorporated in the State of Massachusetts. Tax ID #86-2532249 \nIMPORTANT: For all activities\, participants must come prepared with adequate water and food. Dress appropriately in layers for the weather\, including rain gear\, and wear proper hiking footwear. The hike leader has the discretion to deny people participation if they are not adequately prepared. Contact us via email or text with any questions. Most hikes are listed as “Dog Friendly” or “Dogs on Leash are welcome.”  If leashing is required you must keep your dog on leash!  Please do not bring a dog if it is not reliably under your control\, leashed or otherwise\, and be prepared to pick up after your dog. \nAdults bringing minor children are fully responsible for their safety and well-being. For children under 14\, please contact us to ask if it is permissible to bring them (some hikes may be difficult for them and a liability release is mandatory). Hikes leave from the trailhead at the “Leave Time.” Please ARRIVE at the trailhead prepared to hike at least 10 MINUTES earlier than the Leave Time. \n \n \nShare this:Tweet\n				Email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)\n				Email\n			\n				Print (Opens in new window)\n				Print\n			MoreLike this:Like Loading…
URL:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/event/berkshire-national-fish-hatchery/
LOCATION:Berkshire National Fish Hatchery\, 240 Hatchery Road\, New Marlborough\, ma\, 01230
CATEGORIES:Group Hikes
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Compress_20250916_073850_0731.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Western Mass Hilltown Hikers":MAILTO:westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260418T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260418T160000
DTSTAMP:20260518T100442
CREATED:20260313T140757Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260317T210451Z
UID:71518-1776502800-1776528000@westernmasshilltownhikers.com
SUMMARY:Westfield River Wildwater Races 71st Annual
DESCRIPTION:One of the country’s oldest whitewater canoe\, kayak and SUP races are taking place on the Westfield River once again on Saturday\, April 18th. Participants challenge spring whitewater rapids and portage their boats around two dams for a fun and exciting paddling race that is filled with lifelong memories. The race takes place on a river that was given a “Wild & Scenic” designation by an act of Congress 31 years ago. Join us and make your own racing history! \nThe Hilltown Hikers will again be volunteers parking all of you at Strathmore Park AND will have a vendor booth at the park with Hilltown Swag and Outdoor Recreation information for all!  See you all there… \nFor all the info and to sign up for the race click below: \n2026 — Westfield River Wildwater Races 2026 — Race Roster — Registration\, Marketing\, Fundraising \nShare this:Tweet\n				Email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)\n				Email\n			\n				Print (Opens in new window)\n				Print\n			MoreLike this:Like Loading…
URL:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/event/westfield-river-wildwater-races/
LOCATION:Strathmore Park\, 773 Westfield Road\, Russell\, MA\, 01071
CATEGORIES:Group Hikes,Social Events/Fundraisers
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/FB_IMG_1767532591389.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Western Mass Hilltown Hikers":MAILTO:westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260322T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260322T150000
DTSTAMP:20260518T100442
CREATED:20260220T210430Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260313T135948Z
UID:70944-1774184400-1774191600@westernmasshilltownhikers.com
SUMMARY:Good Golly...Missed Trolley Presentation
DESCRIPTION:Special Event! \nGood Golly….Missed Trolley \n Presentation on the Huckleberry Trolley Line \nSunday March 22nd at 1:00pm to 3:00pm \nParking: Chester Railway Museum\, 10 Prospect Street\, Chester\, MA 01011 \nOur 2026 Educational series continues with a historical presentation  \nJoin special guest\, Steve Cormier\, local author of three Hilltown History books. The Sacrificial Land\, Life and Times of Parley B. Hutchins\, and now\, Good Golly…Missed Trolley. \nA power point presentation surrounding Good Golly…Missed Trolley\, will cover the evolution and impact of the trolley system which progressed to the electric trolley that revolutionized mass urban travel. The presentation will focus on the direct impact that trolley systems once had within Western Massachusetts. The “Hilltown Delima” will be discussed; a lack of trolley service within this greater area\, which contributed to population loss and economic despair. Unfortunately\, the Huckleberry line would not provide the service that the Hilltown area desperately needed. Presentation will also cover the New Haven Railroad’s numerous monopoly attempts to control overall transportation in the western part of the state. \n Trolley photos: George Ford Collection. The Good Golly book will be for sale at the event. \nAll events are free for our members; all are welcome and donations are appreciated. Suggested donation is $15. Registration is NOT required.  \nPlease email westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com or call/text 413-302-0312 if you have any questions. Follow us on Facebook\, Instagram\, Tik Tok and YouTube. See all our events\, maps\, blog and photos at www.hilltownhikers.com  \nLearn about Steve here… \nMy working career was as a manufacturing sales representative\, working for various paper mills. In 2016\, my wife and I decided to “downsize” from our longstanding home in Connecticut.  We wanted to stay in New England. We were fortunate to find a nice location adjacent to the middle branch of the Westfield River\, here in Huntington. \nMy “writing career” began in 2022 at the age of 74. Watching too much news… I was fed up with the high price of gas…..”is there a conspiracy between a political party and oil companies to drive up prices to make the incumbent party look bad to swing the elections in the upcoming mid -terms”?  \nThis thought inspired me to write my first book…Oil Change. Obviously fiction….had a lot of fun writing it and was very proud of how it came out.  Maybe a sequel!? Oil Change came out 9/22. \nMy next book\, Life and Times of Parley B. Hutchins\, came out exactly a year later\, 9/23. My inspiration for this book was seeing wooden beams in the middle branch in an area of my property.  It appeared there may have been a mill located here at one time. Through research\, found out that a man named Parley Hutchins manufactured wooden bowls there and lived on the property in which we are now located.  In researching Parley Hutchins\, I discovered that he was murdered at his mill site in 1880. His murder remained unsolved. I thought to myself…”this would make a great book” ! \nThe Sacrificial Land came out on 10/24.  Spending much time researching Parley; I became interested in further researching the Hilltown area. I spent some time at the Chester Museum and was fortunate to meet Jean Bush at the museum. Jean Elder Bush was born and raised in Littleville. Her family tree\, the Elder’s \, go back to the original settlers of the area. Jean had fond memories of Littleville\, having left at age 18 when she married. Jean had four large binder photos of Littleville\, including the dam construction. Talking to Jean\, seeing her photos\, researching the Littleville and Knightville Dam project and why they were built….inspired me to write The Sacrificial Land.  \nGood Golly….Missed Trolley\, my fourth book\, was finished on Valentines day\, February 14\, 2026. A year in the making; it was inspired by a good friend\, Bill McVeigh. Bill is a “local historian” within the area. Bill came up with the suggestion of writing a book on the local trolley systems. He had a good amount of material on the subject that he lent me.  The more I researched\, the more excited I got over how much of an impact the trolley had on the turn of the 20th century generation.  I am really happy how Good Golly…Missed Trolley came out\, especially how it relates to what I call the “Hilltown Delima”.  \n \nWant to hike every weekend year round? Become a Hilltown Hiker Member! Get access to our private Messenger Group Text with hike and event announcements that are member exclusive events.  You can sign up securely with a credit card on our shopping page here  \nFollow us on Facebook\, Instagram\, TikTok\, and YouTube. Tees\, hoodies\, hats\, patches\, water bottles and safety vests will be for sale by donation at the event.  See all our events\, maps\, blog and photos at www.hilltownhikers.com Please keep our beautiful places clean and carry in and carry out. \nDonate here: \nVia our website Western Mass Hilltown Hikers \nVia Paypal at paypal.me/hilltownhikers  \nVia Venmo:  @hilltownhikers \nVia Square: Home | Western Mass Hilltown Hikers (square.site)   \nGROUP HIKES AND TOURS SINCE 2010 \nMission Statement:  Western Mass Hilltown Hikers\, Inc. is organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes to engage in all legal activities relating to the development\, maintenance and operation of historical properties and tours\, recreational hiking and outdoor adventure in Western Massachusetts.  Western Mass Hilltown Hikers\, Inc. provides monthly\, guided group tours of historical hiking destinations in various locations of Western Massachusetts. We also provide volunteer trail maintenance for trails\, maintain our historic conserved properties and provide educational presentations to other civic groups\, non-profit organizations\, libraries and schools.  We are a non-profit 501C(3) organization incorporated in the State of Massachusetts. Tax ID #86-2532249 \n \nShare this:Tweet\n				Email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)\n				Email\n			\n				Print (Opens in new window)\n				Print\n			MoreLike this:Like Loading…
URL:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/event/good-golly-missed-trolley-presentation/
LOCATION:Chester Railway Museum\, 10 Prospect Street\, Chester\, MA\, 01011\, United States
CATEGORIES:Group Hikes
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/usr_m_berk_40_eastleecarhouse_1903_052.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Western Mass Hilltown Hikers":MAILTO:westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260321T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260321T143000
DTSTAMP:20260518T100442
CREATED:20260130T225855Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260220T214504Z
UID:70478-1774090800-1774103400@westernmasshilltownhikers.com
SUMMARY:Coles Brook Preserve in Washington
DESCRIPTION:Headwaters Trail Group Hike at Coles Brook Preserve\nMarch 21st @ 11:00 am \nHike Rating:  1.5 mile loop.  Easy to Moderate\,  flat ground double track with minimal incline/declines\, rock steps\, bridges.  \nParking:  Small lot on Cross Place Road\, overflow along one side of Cross Place Road.  Parking is limited\, registration is per car\, please try to carpool. \nDirections: \n\nFrom the MA Pike west take the Westfield exit and head west on Route 20 to Route 8 N (from the MA Pike \ngoing east take Lee exit and head east on R. 20 to Rt 8 N).\nTake a right onto Route 8 north.\nContinue 9 miles and in the town of Washington and take a right on Lower Valley Road.\nAfter 0.9 miles you will go under a railroad bridge\, then bear left onto Cross Place Road.\nContinue 0.8 miles until you see a small marked parking lot on your right.\n\nJoin us for a hike along the Headwaters Trail\, the newest hiking destination in the Hilltowns. The preserve protects a variety of habitats in a relatively intact forested landscape including forest\, ponds\, portions of Coles Brook and shrub wetlands. It abuts additional protected areas including the 3\,400-acre Middlefield State Forest. The 1.2-mile Headwaters Trail\, named for the narrow stream that emerges from the spring-fed Benson Pond\, features gentle slopes\, a natural stone staircase and charming bridges over Coles Brook. The trail offers access to this haven for wildlife\, including porcupines\, beavers\, moose\, birds\, salamanders and more. Coles Brook is a part of the Westfield River watershed of the Connecticut River and provides unique conservation opportunities based on the combination of intact forests and high-quality rivers and streams. This area offers one of the last and best opportunities for large-scale forest and aquatic system conservation in southern New England. The Nature Conservancy’s goal is to conserve the integrity of these forests and rivers both to protect the Connecticut River watershed as well as provide connectivity to other forested habitats in the Appalachians.  Tom Hoffman\, Hilltown Hikers Hike Leader and Washington Historical Chair will point out the historical cellar holes along the way and the colonial influences in this area. \nRegister \nPlease Register per vehicle on https://events.ticketleap.com/events/westernmasshilltownhikers  Maps and bottled water provided.  Well behaved dogs welcome. Event is volunteer lead. Suggested donation is $15.  More details are on www.hilltownhikers.com .  Please email westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com or call/text 413-302-0312 if you have any questions.  As always be prepared for rocks\, mud and roots\, bring trekking poles and a snack! \nWant to hike every weekend year round? Become a Hilltown Hiker Member! Get access to our private Messenger Group Text with hike and event announcements that are member exclusive events.  You can sign up securely with a credit card on our shopping page here  \nFollow us on Facebook\, Instagram\, TikTok\, and YouTube. Tees\, hoodies\, hats\, patches\, water bottles and safety vests will be for sale by donation at the event.  See all our events\, maps\, blog and photos at www.hilltownhikers.com Please keep our beautiful places clean and carry in and carry out. \nDonate here: \nVia our website Western Mass Hilltown Hikers \nVia Paypal at paypal.me/hilltownhikers  \nVia Venmo:  @hilltownhikers \nVia Square: Home | Western Mass Hilltown Hikers (square.site)   \nGROUP HIKES AND TOURS SINCE 2010\nMission Statement:  Western Mass Hilltown Hikers\, Inc. is organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes to engage in all legal activities relating to the development\, maintenance and operation of historical properties and tours\, recreational hiking and outdoor adventure in Western Massachusetts.  Western Mass Hilltown Hikers\, Inc. provides monthly\, guided group tours of historical hiking destinations in various locations of Western Massachusetts. We also provide volunteer trail maintenance for trails\, maintain our historic conserved properties and provide educational presentations to other civic groups\, non-profit organizations\, libraries and schools.  We are a non-profit 501C(3) organization incorporated in the State of Massachusetts. Tax ID #86-2532249 \nIMPORTANT: For all activities\, participants must come prepared with adequate water and food. Dress appropriately in layers for the weather\, including rain gear\, and wear proper hiking footwear. The hike leader has the discretion to deny people participation if they are not adequately prepared. Contact us via email or text with any questions. Most hikes are listed as “Dog Friendly” or “Dogs on Leash are welcome.”  If leashing is required you must keep your dog on leash!  Please do not bring a dog if it is not reliably under your control\, leashed or otherwise\, and be prepared to pick up after your dog. \nAdults bringing minor children are fully responsible for their safety and well-being. For children under 14\, please contact us to ask if it is permissible to bring them (some hikes may be difficult for them and a liability release is mandatory). Hikes leave from the trailhead at the “Leave Time.” Please ARRIVE at the trailhead prepared to hike at least 10 MINUTES earlier than the Leave Time. \n \nShare this:Tweet\n				Email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)\n				Email\n			\n				Print (Opens in new window)\n				Print\n			MoreLike this:Like Loading…
URL:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/event/coles-brook-preserve/
LOCATION:Coles Brook Preserve\, Cross Place Road\, Washington\, MA\, 01223
CATEGORIES:Group Hikes
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Compress_20260127_080800_0850.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Western Mass Hilltown Hikers":MAILTO:westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260222T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260222T150000
DTSTAMP:20260518T100442
CREATED:20260129T181422Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260220T213852Z
UID:70457-1771765200-1771772400@westernmasshilltownhikers.com
SUMMARY:Biography of Horace Moses Presentation
DESCRIPTION:Biography of Horace Moses Presentation \nSunday February 22nd at 1:00pm to 3:00pm \nParking: Chester Railway Museum\, 10 Prospect Street\, Chester\, MA 01011 \nOur 2026 Educational series continues with a historical presentation  \nJoin special guest Bob Kidd with 70+ years as a registered Scout wondering and working “Woronoak Heights”\,author of four local histories including a biography of H. A. Moses. Come learn about the fascinating history of Moses’ early life in Ticonderoga\, NY and the construction of the Mittineague West Springfield mill with expansion into Woronoco\, Russell\, MA with his concerns for social welfare of his workers and their community needs. He was “The Gentleman Farmer” and Host at Woronoak Heights\, the community and youth organizer including: the Eastern States Movement\, Hampden County Improvement League\, Big E\, Farmers’ Exchange\, 4-H\, YMCA\, Jr. Achievement\, and more. Also learn about his philanthropic endeavors locally and in Ticonderoga\, NY. And finally… his passing\, Testimonials and Tributes. \nAll events are free for our members; but all are welcome and donations are appreciated. Suggested donation $15. Registration is not required.  \nPlease email westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com or call/text 413-302-0312 if you have any questions. Follow us on Facebook\, Instagram\, Tik Tok and YouTube. See all our events\, maps\, blog and photos at www.hilltownhikers.com \nShirts and Hiker swag will be for sale by donation at the event. \nMission Statement: Western Mass Hilltown Hikers\, Inc. is organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes to engage in all legal activities relating to the development\, maintenance and operation of historical properties and tours\, recreational hiking and outdoor adventure in Western Massachusetts. Western Mass Hilltown Hikers\, Inc. provides monthly\, guided group tours of historical hiking destinations in various locations of Western Massachusetts. We also provide volunteer trail maintenance for trails\, maintain our historic conserved properties and provide educational presentations to other civic groups\, non-profit organizations\, libraries and schools. We are a non-profit 501C(3) organization incorporated in the State of Massachusetts. Tax ID #86-2532249 \nPlease keep our beautiful places clean and carry in and carry out.  \nGUIDED GROUP HIKES AND TOURS SINCE 2010\n \nAre you ready to leap into the great outdoors every weekend? Join the Hilltown Hikers and unlock a treasure trove of adventure that will have your heart racing and your legs rejoicing! Imagine this: spontaneous hiking escapades popping up in our lively private Group Messenger chat\, where the thrill of the next adventure is just a ping away—talk about a “trailblazing” experience! By becoming a member\, you’re not just treating yourself to unforgettable hikes\, but you’re also supporting our mission of environmental stewardship and community engagement. Signing up is as easy as a stroll down a well-marked path. Get ready to lace up those hiking boots and hit the trails with a fantastic group of fellow outdoor enthusiasts! So\, what are you waiting for? Let’s make every weekend a hiking weekend and create some legendary stories together—because life is too short to stay indoors! \nWant to hike every weekend year round? Become a Hilltown Hiker Member! Get access to our private Messenger Group Text with hike and event announcements that are member exclusive events.  You can sign up securely with a credit card on our shopping page here  \nFollow us on Facebook\, Instagram\, TikTok\, and YouTube. Tees\, hoodies\, hats\, patches\, water bottles and safety vests will be for sale by donation at the event.  See all our events\, maps\, blog and photos at www.hilltownhikers.com Please keep our beautiful places clean and carry in and carry out. \nDonate here: \nVia our website Western Mass Hilltown Hikers \nVia Paypal at paypal.me/hilltownhikers  \nVia Venmo:  @hilltownhikers \nVia Square: Home | Western Mass Hilltown Hikers (square.site)   \n  \nShare this:Tweet\n				Email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)\n				Email\n			\n				Print (Opens in new window)\n				Print\n			MoreLike this:Like Loading…
URL:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/event/biography-of-horace-moses-presentation/
LOCATION:Chester Railway Museum\, 10 Prospect Street\, Chester\, MA\, 01011\, United States
CATEGORIES:Group Hikes,Social Events/Fundraisers
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/20220611_155049-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Western Mass Hilltown Hikers":MAILTO:westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260221T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260221T143000
DTSTAMP:20260518T100442
CREATED:20260102T224734Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260216T185723Z
UID:69746-1771671600-1771684200@westernmasshilltownhikers.com
SUMMARY:Chesterfield Gorge East Branch Trail
DESCRIPTION:Chesterfield Gorge East Branch Trail\nFebruary 21st @ 11:00 am\nParking at the Chesterfield Gorge.  150 Ireland Street\, Chesterfield\, MA  01084 additional plowed parking at the snowmobile club here for a nominal donation.\nHike Rating:  Moderate (due to length and winter conditions)\,  flat ground with minimal incline/declines\,  approximately four miles in and back to mile marker two with an option for another two miles to the Dam and back.  Crampons/cleats/snowshoes recommended.  Please check back here for current conditions week of the event. LOOKS LIKE SNOW! as of today Feb 16th forecast is for up to 6 inches of snow on Friday and about an inch on Saturday so please be prepared with ice cleats\, snowshoes\, boots.  The trail is packed down by snowmobiles but there will be fresh snow on the trail. Cross Country Skis welcome! \nJoin us for a hike along the East Branch Trail with an option to go the Baker Dam and Saw Mill Remains starting at the Chesterfield Gorge. The East Branch of the Westfield River in winter is a unique sight with ice blocks lining the edge.  We will see animal tracks in the snow and experience the beauty of the woods in winter. Built in 1848 by Lemuel Baker\, a saw mill was erected here at mile marker three on the East Branch Trail in Chesterfield.  The mill used an undershot waterwheel to produce its power.  A dam was located here but it no longer exists due to raging flood waters on the East Branch of the Westfield River however metal pins can still be seen on the rocks at the waters edge.  After 21 years of use both the dam and mill were destroyed by flood waters in 1869 and were never rebuilt. We will hike along the wild and scenic East Branch trail along the river with rolling terrain into the Gilbert Bliss State Forest\, passing an old quarry site to mile marker two with an option to add another two miles on to the old mill site. \nRegister\nPlease Register per vehicle on https://events.ticketleap.com/events/westernmasshilltownhikers  Maps and bottled water provided.  Well behaved dogs welcome. Event is volunteer lead. Suggested donation is $15.  More details are on www.hilltownhikers.com .  Please email westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com or call/text 413-302-0312 if you have any questions.  As always be prepared for rocks\, mud and roots\, bring trekking poles and a snack! \n \nWant to hike every weekend year round? Become a Hilltown Hiker Member! Get access to our private Messenger Group Text with hike and event announcements that are member exclusive events.  You can sign up securely with a credit card on our shopping page here  \nFollow us on Facebook\, Instagram\, TikTok\, and YouTube. Tees\, hoodies\, hats\, patches\, water bottles and safety vests will be for sale by donation at the event.  See all our events\, maps\, blog and photos at www.hilltownhikers.com Please keep our beautiful places clean and carry in and carry out. \nDonate here: \nVia our website Western Mass Hilltown Hikers \nVia Paypal at paypal.me/hilltownhikers  \nVia Venmo:  @hilltownhikers \nVia Square: Home | Western Mass Hilltown Hikers (square.site)   \nGROUP HIKES AND TOURS SINCE 2010\nMission Statement:  Western Mass Hilltown Hikers\, Inc. is organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes to engage in all legal activities relating to the development\, maintenance and operation of historical properties and tours\, recreational hiking and outdoor adventure in Western Massachusetts.  Western Mass Hilltown Hikers\, Inc. provides monthly\, guided group tours of historical hiking destinations in various locations of Western Massachusetts. We also provide volunteer trail maintenance for trails\, maintain our historic conserved properties and provide educational presentations to other civic groups\, non-profit organizations\, libraries and schools.  We are a non-profit 501C(3) organization incorporated in the State of Massachusetts. Tax ID #86-2532249 \nIMPORTANT: For all activities\, participants must come prepared with adequate water and food. Dress appropriately in layers for the weather\, including rain gear\, and wear proper hiking footwear. The hike leader has the discretion to deny people participation if they are not adequately prepared. Contact us via email or text with any questions. Most hikes are listed as “Dog Friendly” or “Dogs on Leash are welcome.”  If leashing is required you must keep your dog on leash!  Please do not bring a dog if it is not reliably under your control\, leashed or otherwise\, and be prepared to pick up after your dog. \nAdults bringing minor children are fully responsible for their safety and well-being. For children under 14\, please contact us to ask if it is permissible to bring them (some hikes may be difficult for them and a liability release is mandatory). Hikes leave from the trailhead at the “Leave Time.” Please ARRIVE at the trailhead prepared to hike at least 10 MINUTES earlier than the Leave Time. \nShare this:Tweet\n				Email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)\n				Email\n			\n				Print (Opens in new window)\n				Print\n			MoreLike this:Like Loading…
URL:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/event/chesterfield-gorge-east-branch-trail/
LOCATION:Chesterfield Gorge\, 22 River Road\, Chesterfield\, MA\, 01084
CATEGORIES:Group Hikes
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Compress_20240202_093831_1342.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Western Mass Hilltown Hikers":MAILTO:westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260201T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260201T153000
DTSTAMP:20260518T100442
CREATED:20260115T205535Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260115T205742Z
UID:70114-1769947200-1769959800@westernmasshilltownhikers.com
SUMMARY:Snow Day at Chester Hill
DESCRIPTION:Share this:Tweet\n				Email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)\n				Email\n			\n				Print (Opens in new window)\n				Print\n			MoreLike this:Like Loading…
URL:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/event/snow-day-at-chester-hill/
LOCATION:14 Ingell Road\, 14 ingell Road\, Chester\, MA\, 01011
CATEGORIES:Group Hikes,Social Events/Fundraisers
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Compress_20250225_081642_2761.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Western Mass Hilltown Hikers":MAILTO:westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260124T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260125T160000
DTSTAMP:20260518T100442
CREATED:20250910T230514Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260115T205842Z
UID:66654-1769245200-1769356800@westernmasshilltownhikers.com
SUMMARY:Railroad Hobby Show
DESCRIPTION:The Railroad Hobby Show is the largest railroad-themed trade show in America. The event occupies 350\,000 square feet in four buildings on the Eastern States Exposition fairgrounds. The show covers all facets of the railroad hobbies – model railroads\, railroad art and photography\, railroad history and preservation\, tourist railroads\, railroad artifacts\, and railroad books and videos. \nThe Hilltown Hikers are proud to be a Historical Vendor at the show for 2026 displaying Hilltown History on our Chester Granite Property and History of the Chester and Becket Railroad.  Please visit our booth located in the Better Living Center at the Big E Fairgrounds January 24th and 25th.  Visit this link to get tickets and learn more about the show! \nWant to hike every weekend year round? Become a Hilltown Hiker Member! Get access to our private Messenger Group Text with hike and event announcements that are member exclusive events.  You can sign up securely with a credit card on our shopping page here  \nFollow us on Facebook\, Instagram\, and YouTube. Tees\, hoodies\, hats\, patches and photos will be for sale by donation at the event.  See all our events\, maps\, blog and photos at www.hilltownhikers.com Please keep our beautiful places clean and carry in and carry out. \nDonate here: \nVia our website Western Mass Hilltown Hikers \nVia Paypal at paypal.me/hilltownhikers  \nVia Venmo:  @hilltownhikers \nVia Square: Home | Western Mass Hilltown Hikers (square.site)   \nGROUP HIKES AND TOURS SINCE 2010\nMission Statement: Western Mass Hilltown Hikers\, Inc. is organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes to engage in all legal activities relating to the development\, maintenance and operation of recreational hiking and outdoor adventure in Western Massachusetts.  We are a non-profit 501C(3) organization incorporated in the State of Massachusetts. Tax ID #86-2532249 \n \nShare this:Tweet\n				Email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)\n				Email\n			\n				Print (Opens in new window)\n				Print\n			MoreLike this:Like Loading…
URL:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/event/railroad-hobby-show/
LOCATION:Big E Fairgrounds\, 1305 Memorial Avenue\, west springfield\, ma\, 01089
CATEGORIES:Group Hikes,Social Events/Fundraisers
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/compress_20250129_072340_06725457323872830012465.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Western Mass Hilltown Hikers":MAILTO:westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260109T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260214T163000
DTSTAMP:20260518T100442
CREATED:20251204T225607Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260216T185809Z
UID:69085-1767963600-1771086600@westernmasshilltownhikers.com
SUMMARY:Mass 250 Western Mass Berkshires Events
DESCRIPTION:Friday January 9th at 1pm General Knox Road\, Russell\, MA  monument \n  \n  \n \n\nRevolution 250 Presents: 250th Anniversary Commemoration of Henry Knox’s Noble Train of Artillery \n\n \n  \n  \n \n \nMA250 – A History of Possibility \nHome | Boston\, MA | Revolution 250 \nShare this:Tweet\n				Email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)\n				Email\n			\n				Print (Opens in new window)\n				Print\n			MoreLike this:Like Loading…
URL:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/event/mass-250-western-mass-berkshires/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Group Hikes
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/knox-250.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260101T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260101T130000
DTSTAMP:20260518T100442
CREATED:20251013T230619Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251204T190709Z
UID:67520-1767261600-1767272400@westernmasshilltownhikers.com
SUMMARY:First Day Hike at Sanderson Brook Falls
DESCRIPTION:First Day Hike at Sanderson Brook Falls in the Chester Blandford State Forest with the DCR\nJanuary 1st @ 10:00 am \nParking: at the Sanderson Brook Falls lot on Route 20 across from Bannish Lumber Chester\, MA 01011 Google Directions to Bannish Lumber in Chester. \nDirections: from Northampton take Route 66 to Route 112 Huntington\, take a right on Route 20 West to Chester\, Chester Blandford State Forest on your left approx. 2.25 miles. \nHike Rating: Easy to moderate with some uneven footing\, 2 miles in and back.  The spur trail to the waterfall slopes downward and is single track.  Crampons/walking sticks recommended if there is snow/ice.  \nCelebrate the New Year 2026 outdoors with the Hilltown Hikers and the Department of Conservation and Recreation and join the nationwide initiative led by America’s State Parks to encourage people to get outdoors. On New Year’s Day\, hundreds of free\, guided hikes will be organized in all 50 states. Hikers across America will be participating in First Day Hikes\, getting their hearts pumping and enjoying the beauty of a state park. Last year nearly 55\,000 people rang in the New Year\, hiking over 133\,000 miles throughout the country! The Chester Blandford State Forest includes remnants of small mining operations and the 60-foot cascade at Sanderson Brook Falls. The state forest was established in 1924 when local lumber companies sold the land to the state. The trail is a wide gravel road which gently climbs upward. We will cross three girder bridges (dog friendly) and follow along Sanderson Brook then take the more narrow trail to the right which takes us to the bottom of the waterfall. We will hike rain or shine. Registration required.  Be prepared for winter conditions\, snow and ice gear recommended. Free Berkshire Destinations Waterfall posters\, New Years props\, photo booth and more! \nRegister \n  \nPlease Register per car load on https://westernmasshilltownhikers.ticketleap.com Maps and bottled water provided.  Well behaved dogs allowed. Event is volunteer lead. Suggested donation is $15.  More details are on www.hilltownhikers.com .  Please email westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com or call/text 413-302-0312 if you have any questions.  As always be prepared for rocks\, mud and roots\, bring trekking poles! \nWant to hike every weekend year round? Become a Hilltown Hiker Member! Get access to our private Messenger Group Text with hike and event announcements that are member exclusive events.  You can sign up securely with a credit card on our shopping page here  \nFollow us on Facebook\, Instagram\, and YouTube. Tees\, hoodies\, hats\, patches and photos will be for sale by donation at the event.  See all our events\, maps\, blog and photos at www.hilltownhikers.com Please keep our beautiful places clean and carry in and carry out. \nDonate here: \nVia our website Western Mass Hilltown Hikers \nVia Paypal at paypal.me/hilltownhikers  \nVia Venmo:  @hilltownhikers \nVia Square: Home | Western Mass Hilltown Hikers (square.site)   \nGROUP HIKES AND TOURS SINCE 2010\nMission Statement: Western Mass Hilltown Hikers\, Inc. is organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes to engage in all legal activities relating to the development\, maintenance and operation of recreational hiking and outdoor adventure in Western Massachusetts.  We are a non-profit 501C(3) organization incorporated in the State of Massachusetts. Tax ID #86-2532249 \n \nIMPORTANT: For all activities\, participants must come prepared with adequate water and food. Dressappropriately in layers for the weather\, including rain gear\, and wear proper hiking footwear. The hikeleader has the discretion to deny people participation if they are not adequately prepared. Contact thehike leader with any questions. Some hikes are listed as “Dog Friendly” or “Dogs on Leash are welcome.”  Dogs are allowed onlyon these hikes and if leashing is required you must keep your dog on leash!  Please do not bring adog if it is not reliably under your control\, leashed or otherwise\, and be prepared to pick up after your dog. \nAdults bringing minor children are fully responsible for their safety and well-being. For childrenunder 14\, please contact the hike leader to ask if it is permissible to bring them. Hikes leave from the trailhead promptly at the “Leave Time.” Please ARRIVE at the trailhead prepared to hike at least 10 MINUTES earlier than the Leave Time. \nShare this:Tweet\n				Email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)\n				Email\n			\n				Print (Opens in new window)\n				Print\n			MoreLike this:Like Loading…
URL:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/event/first-day-hike-at-sanderson-brook-falls-4/
LOCATION:Sanderson Brook Falls\, 648 US 20\, Chester\, MA\, 01011\, United States
CATEGORIES:Group Hikes
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/First-Day-2026-flyer-e1760396509424.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Western Mass Hilltown Hikers":MAILTO:westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251227T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251227T140000
DTSTAMP:20260518T100442
CREATED:20250124T003921Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251223T231440Z
UID:60021-1766829600-1766844000@westernmasshilltownhikers.com
SUMMARY:Huckleberry Trolley Line Huntington
DESCRIPTION:Western Mass Hilltown Hikers Group Hike \nHuckleberry Trolley Line Huntington \nDecember 27th at 10:00 am \nParking: 24 Russell Road Huntington\, MA 01050 Stanton Hall we will start the event here\, parking and entrance in the rear \nHike Rating: Moderate three (changed to two) miles in and back hike on old trolley bed including easy street walking includes viewing of our exclusive trolley research in Stanton Hall to start the event. (weather will determine how much woods walking we do on old trolley bed-2 miles max.). \nCome for the tour or just come for the historic artifacts and info at Stanton Hall! \nJoin us to hike and walk on the historic trolley line dubbed “The Three Million Dollar Failure” in the center of Huntington which is the most historic Huckleberry Trolley locations! Learn about the line that ran from Lee to Huntington and view the collection of construction photos and maps that we have compiled from the last ten years of research. Ordered by the Massachusetts Legislature of the special act of 1910 which authorized the New York\, New Haven & Hartford Railroad (which they opposed) to build a transportation route through the towns of Huntington\, Blandford\, Otis\, Becket and Lee. The Western Massachusetts Contracting Company was awarded the construction contract and work began in East Lee in the Spring of 1910. Despite problems from the rolling terrain\, small streams\, ponds and dense woods progress was rapid at first and the entire line was built by November 1915. It was 12.54 miles long and completely over budget. The line operated until 1918. Our exclusive Huckleberry Trolley Collection of postcards\, construction photos and more will be on display for this event at Stanton Hall for the entire length of the event.  We will end the event with cocoa and cookies in Stanton Hall. \nPlease Register per car load on https://www.ticketleap.events/events/westernmasshilltownhikers  Maps and bottled water provided.  Well behaved dogs allowed on the walk\, but no dogs inside Stanton Hall please. Event is volunteer lead. Suggested donation is $15. Maps and bottled water provided. Tees\, patches and more for sale by donation at the event. More details including our blog are on www.hilltownhikers.com .  Please email westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com or call/text 413-302-0312 if you have any questions. Follow us on Facebook\, Instagram and YouTube.  As always be prepared for rocks\, mud and roots\, bring trekking poles! \nWant to hike every weekend year round? Become a Hilltown Hiker Member! Get access to our private Messenger Group Text with hike and event announcements that are member exclusive events. Sign up under membership on www.hilltownhikers.com \nPlease keep our beautiful places clean and carry in and carry out. \nHilltown Hikers….GROUP HIKES AND TOURS SINCE 2010 \nRegister \nNOTE:  if you are not walking outside with us you DO NOT have to register to come to Stanton Hall. \nFollow us on Facebook\, Instagram\, and YouTube. Tees\, hoodies\, hats\, patches and photos will be for sale by donation at the event.  See all our events\, maps\, blog and photos at www.hilltownhikers.com Please keep our beautiful places clean and carry in and carry out. \nDonate here: \nVia our website Western Mass Hilltown Hikers \nVia Paypal at paypal.me/hilltownhikers  \nVia Venmo:  @hilltownhikers \nVia Square: Home | Western Mass Hilltown Hikers (square.site)   \nGROUP HIKES AND TOURS SINCE 2010\nMission Statement: Western Mass Hilltown Hikers\, Inc. is organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes to engage in all legal activities relating to the development\, maintenance and operation of recreational hiking and outdoor adventure in Western Massachusetts.  We are a non-profit 501C(3) organization incorporated in the State of Massachusetts. Tax ID #86-2532249 \n \nIMPORTANT: For all activities\, participants must come prepared with adequate water and food. Dressappropriately in layers for the weather\, including rain gear\, and wear proper hiking footwear. The hikeleader has the discretion to deny people participation if they are not adequately prepared. Contact thehike leader with any questions. Some hikes are listed as “Dog Friendly” or “Dogs on Leash are welcome.”  Dogs are allowed onlyon these hikes and if leashing is required you must keep your dog on leash!  Please do not bring adog if it is not reliably under your control\, leashed or otherwise\, and be prepared to pick up after your dog. \nAdults bringing minor children are fully responsible for their safety and well-being. For childrenunder 14\, please contact the hike leader to ask if it is permissible to bring them. Hikes leave from the trailhead promptly at the “Leave Time.” Please ARRIVE at the trailhead prepared to hike at least 10 MINUTES earlier than the Leave Time. \nShare this:Tweet\n				Email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)\n				Email\n			\n				Print (Opens in new window)\n				Print\n			MoreLike this:Like Loading…
URL:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/event/huckleberry-trolley-line-huntington/
LOCATION:stanton hall\, 24 Russell Road\, Huntington\, ma\, 01050
CATEGORIES:Group Hikes
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Berkshire-Street-Railway-car-162-on-first-trip-to-Huntington-in-1917-Aug-15-1917-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Western Mass Hilltown Hikers":MAILTO:westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251213T050000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251213T200000
DTSTAMP:20260518T100442
CREATED:20251204T231043Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251204T231134Z
UID:69090-1765602000-1765656000@westernmasshilltownhikers.com
SUMMARY:Russell Parade of Lights 2025
DESCRIPTION:JOIN US on our float\, dress up in lights and be a part of the holiday spirit!  The annual Russell Parade of Lights will be on December 13th.  Santa will arrive at the Russell Town Hall sometime between 4:30 and 4:45 and the Parade will start at 6 pm.  Free popcorn\, hot chocolate and coffee in front of the Town Hall and Community Church. There will be no parking on Main Street during the parade.  Free parking in the Catholic Church parking lot\, Handicapped parking across the street from the Town Hall and behind the Town Hall. Parking and staging for float on Frog Hollow Road off Main Street.  \n \nShare this:Tweet\n				Email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)\n				Email\n			\n				Print (Opens in new window)\n				Print\n			MoreLike this:Like Loading…
URL:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/event/russell-parade-of-lights-2025/
LOCATION:246 Frog Hollow Road\, 246 Frog Hollow Road\, Russell\, 01071\, United States
CATEGORIES:Group Hikes
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/492536521_10228347454179976_5807876080197810097_n.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251122T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251122T140000
DTSTAMP:20260518T100442
CREATED:20250124T003642Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251101T230247Z
UID:60018-1763805600-1763820000@westernmasshilltownhikers.com
SUMMARY:Twin Ponds Hancock/Pittsfield State Forest
DESCRIPTION:November 22nd at 10:00 am \nParking: 42.436564\, -73.373432 Pittsfield\, Massachusetts 01201 Route 20 ( Lebanon Mountain Road) pull off on right when heading West before the NY Border \nHike Rating: Moderate 3.5 mile loop hike with 800 feet of elevation. All attendees should be able to hike at a moderate pace with the group through varied terrain including ruts\, rocks in a forest setting. We will stop at a few sights; this is a hike not a tour. Be prepared with trekking poles\, hiking gear and be dressed for cold conditions.  \nJoin us for a hike in the Pittsfield State Forest to Twin Ponds and Cranberry Pond on both the Taconic Skyline and Taconic Crest trails. Explore the beauty of Mount Lebanon\, Pittsfield and Hancock on the ridgeline and see views of Doll mountain across the ponds. Learn about the Shaker history here including their relation to twin ponds. The Taconic Skyline Trail was originally blazed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps as a hiking trail\, 25 miles long\, from Massachusetts Route 41 in Richmond to the northern end of Brodie Mountain in Williamstown. The Taconic Crest Trail is a 37 mile trail in the Taconic Mountains. Much of the route has been conserved as state forest\, conservation easement\, or forest preserve. We will discover hidden history here as we hike through hardwoods and metamorphic rock.  \n  \nRegister \n \nPlease Register per car load on https://www.ticketleap.events/events/westernmasshilltownhikers    Maps and bottled water provided.  Well behaved dogs allowed. Event is volunteer lead. Suggested donation is $15.  More details are on www.hilltownhikers.com .  Please email westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com or call/text 413-302-0312 if you have any questions.  As always be prepared for rocks\, mud and roots\, bring trekking poles! \nWant to hike every weekend year round? Become a Hilltown Hiker Member! Get access to our private Messenger Group Text with hike and event announcements that are member exclusive events.  You can sign up securely with a credit card on our shopping page here  \nFollow us on Facebook\, Instagram\, and YouTube. Tees\, hoodies\, hats\, patches and photos will be for sale by donation at the event.  See all our events\, maps\, blog and photos at www.hilltownhikers.com Please keep our beautiful places clean and carry in and carry out. \nDonate here: \nVia our website Western Mass Hilltown Hikers \nVia Paypal at paypal.me/hilltownhikers  \nVia Venmo:  @hilltownhikers \nVia Square: Home | Western Mass Hilltown Hikers (square.site)   \nGROUP HIKES AND TOURS SINCE 2010\nMission Statement: Western Mass Hilltown Hikers\, Inc. is organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes to engage in all legal activities relating to the development\, maintenance and operation of recreational hiking and outdoor adventure in Western Massachusetts.  We are a non-profit 501C(3) organization incorporated in the State of Massachusetts. Tax ID #86-2532249 \nShare this:Tweet\n				Email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)\n				Email\n			\n				Print (Opens in new window)\n				Print\n			MoreLike this:Like Loading…
URL:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/event/twin-ponds-pittsfield-state-forest/
LOCATION:Pittsfield State Forest
CATEGORIES:Group Hikes
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/IMG_2436-2-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Western Mass Hilltown Hikers":MAILTO:westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251026T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251026T170000
DTSTAMP:20260518T100442
CREATED:20250124T003317Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250327T125740Z
UID:60014-1761483600-1761498000@westernmasshilltownhikers.com
SUMMARY:Whistlers Cathedrals Chester Becket Middlefield
DESCRIPTION:Parking: 325 Middlefield Road Chester 01011 carpool from Parking at Chester Elementary School 42.29793\, -72.98323 \nDirections: From junction of Rts 20 & 102 in Lee\, take Rt. 20 east and drive 18 miles to the Chester center\, turn left onto Middlefield Road and Chester Elementary School will be on your right after 1.5 miles.  Carpool starts at 12pm\, please arrive by at least 12:40 to get a carpool to the trailhead. \nHike Rating: Moderate 5 miles in and back\, ups and downs\, rocks\, roots and dirt \nConstruction of the 150 mile railroad was completed by 3\,000 laborers in an incredible two and a half years\, opening in 1841. Join us for a Historic narrative by Dave Pierce. Enjoy the incredible narration as Dave tells of the history of the Arch’s creation\, the first cluster of stone arch railroad bridges built in America\, located on the West Branch of the Westfield River. Learn how the stone bridges were built\, visit a quarry\, and the massive “cut”. We will take you up close to all of the stone bridges on the trail including the footpaths over and under the dry laid arches. An optional hike to the Gator Arch will follow. The Chester Railway Station Museum will be open after the hike located at 10 Prospect Street in Chester\, a national historic landmark along with the 65 and 70 foot bridges. \nRegister\n  \nPlease Register per car load on https://westernmasshilltownhikers.ticketleap.com Maps and bottled water provided.  Well behaved dogs allowed. Event is volunteer lead. Suggested donation is $15.  More details are on www.hilltownhikers.com .  Please email westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com or call/text 413-302-0312 if you have any questions.  As always be prepared for rocks\, mud and roots\, bring trekking poles! \nWant to hike every weekend year round? Become a Hilltown Hiker Member! Get access to our private Messenger Group Text with hike and event announcements that are member exclusive events.  You can sign up securely with a credit card on our shopping page here  \nFollow us on Facebook\, Instagram\, and YouTube. Tees\, hoodies\, hats\, patches and photos will be for sale by donation at the event.  See all our events\, maps\, blog and photos at www.hilltownhikers.com Please keep our beautiful places clean and carry in and carry out. \nDonate here: \nVia our website Western Mass Hilltown Hikers \nVia Paypal at paypal.me/hilltownhikers  \nVia Venmo:  @hilltownhikers \nVia Square: Home | Western Mass Hilltown Hikers (square.site)   \nGROUP HIKES AND TOURS SINCE 2010\nMission Statement: Western Mass Hilltown Hikers\, Inc. is organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes to engage in all legal activities relating to the development\, maintenance and operation of recreational hiking and outdoor adventure in Western Massachusetts.  We are a non-profit 501C(3) organization incorporated in the State of Massachusetts. Tax ID #86-2532249 \n  \n \nShare this:Tweet\n				Email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)\n				Email\n			\n				Print (Opens in new window)\n				Print\n			MoreLike this:Like Loading…
URL:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/event/whistlers-cathedrals-chester-becket-middlefield/
LOCATION:Keystone Arch Bridges Trail
CATEGORIES:Group Hikes
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Compress_20240724_074559_9663.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Western Mass Hilltown Hikers":MAILTO:westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251025T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251025T220000
DTSTAMP:20260518T100442
CREATED:20250124T005209Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251006T133144Z
UID:60031-1761411600-1761429600@westernmasshilltownhikers.com
SUMMARY:Sinister Saw Haunted Trail
DESCRIPTION:Western Mass Hilltown Hikers \nSinister Saw Haunted Trail \nOctober 25th @ 5:00 pm \nParking:  47 Emery Street across from the Ballfield\, Chester\, MA  01011 \nDirections:  From junction of Rts 20 & 102 in Lee\, take Rt. 20 east and drive 18 miles to the Chester center\, turn left onto Main Street and bear right onto Prospect Street under the railroad and turn right to continue on Emery Street to the parking lot across from the ballfield. From Westfield take Route 20 West to the center of Chester\, turn right onto Main Street and under the underpass to Prospect Street. GPS 42.279570\, -72.975155 \nOn October 25th all the ghouls come out with no holds barred for the Sinister Saw Halloween Event where we light up the trail (in places\, the rest of it is dark scary woods) and the crazy clowns\, masked chainsaw men and evil witches will haunt this abandoned mill in Chester Factory Village including a complete sound show\, live props and gags.\nBe prepared for a spine tingling\, jump out of your pants walk thru the haunted woods!  Join the Hilltown Hikers and our volunteers at our Granite Saw property.  We will have a haunted trail complete with a 12-foot diameter cutting saw\, real tombstones\, haunted gags\, bloody ghouls\, skin crawling sound show\, zombies and more!   What is lurking in those woods? Don’t worry\, we will make sure you get out….alive!\nAND THERES MORE!  The Town of Chester invites all ghouls\, ghosts\, and goblins to gather at the Chester Ball Field on Emery Street for frights and fun! We’ll kick things off at 5pm for the little ghouls with pumpkin painting\, face painting\, followed by a rag-shag parade. \n When the darkness comes……Cheer or compete in our inflatable race at 5:30 p.m. (all are welcome to participate!) Then sink your fangs into Trunk or Treat\, live music\, beer tent and a food truck feast while spooky spirits roam the grounds. Dress to impress (or terrify!) for our costume contests\, followed by an award ceremony with trophies and prizes for trunks and costumes. Warm your bones by the fire at the snack shack\, where s’mores and other sweet treats await. We hope to see you all there! \nNo dogs please on the haunted trail.  Donations are welcome to support the historical renovations to the Chester Granite Saw. Suggested Donation $5 Donate on www.hilltownhikers.com. Please wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for uneven ground. \nSPONSORED BY: The Town of Chester\, Western Mass Hilltown Hikers\, Chester Rec Committee\, Chester Fire Dept\, Chester Police Dept.\, Hamilton Memorial Library\, Our Mother’s Kitchen\, Kosinski Farms in Westfield\, Mel’s Kitchen and The Pease Store.  \nPlease contact Jessica if you would like to do a trunk or compete in the inflatable race! 413-207-4152 jsakaske@live.com  ALL ARE WELCOME! \nEvent is volunteer organized. Suggested donation to the Granite Saw is $5.  More details are on www.hilltownhikers.com .  Please email westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com or call/text 413-302-0312 if you have any questions or would like to volunteer as a live ghoul. \n \ncheck us out on Channel 22 Mass Appeal here —->> Sinister Haunted Trail \nShare this:Tweet\n				Email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)\n				Email\n			\n				Print (Opens in new window)\n				Print\n			MoreLike this:Like Loading…
URL:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/event/sinister-saw-mill-haunted-trail/
LOCATION:Chester Granite Saw\, 9 Prospect Street\, Chester\, ma\, 01011
CATEGORIES:Group Hikes
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/2025-Sinister-Saw-Halloween.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Western Mass Hilltown Hikers":MAILTO:westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251005T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251005T150000
DTSTAMP:20260518T100442
CREATED:20250305T184314Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250329T212237Z
UID:61316-1759669200-1759676400@westernmasshilltownhikers.com
SUMMARY:Reservoir Rocks Group Hike with Christy Butler
DESCRIPTION:Western Mass Hilltown Hikers Group Hike \nGuided Hike to Reservoir Rocks Great Barrington \nOctober 5th @1:00 pm \nParking: Quarry and Pine Street where they intersect Great Barrington\, MA  01230 \nDirections:  Route 7 to East Street to Quarry Street. Parking is roadside\, please do not block driveways \nHike Rating: Moderate 3 miles on a footpath to see boulders\, footing will be uneven and there will be some elevation and walking in between boulders with options for more. \nJoin us with special guest Christy Butler\, author of Berkshire Destinations and Rockachusetts for a boulder expedition to see an enormous field of boulders\, some larger than busses and houses.  Automobile sized boulders are everywhere on East Mountain with many propped up against each other\, a landslide of boulders!  This area is a mecca for climbers and boulderers with many challenging and unique bouldering problems that adventurers flock to.  The land was purchased from the George D. Goodrich estate in 1922 by the Great Barrington Fire District.  Spend a day with us seeing these geological wonders while Mr. Butler entertains us with rocks and more rocks\, a true rock heaven for rock hounds right here in Western Mass.  Friendly dogs are welcome but keep in mind porcupines love rocks too! \nThis is a Housatonic Heritage special event!  Housatonic Heritage Events 2025 Housatonic Heritage Walks – Housatonic Heritage \nRegister\n  \nPlease Register per car load on https://westernmasshilltownhikers.ticketleap.com Maps and bottled water provided.  Well behaved dogs allowed. Event is volunteer lead. Suggested donation is $15.  More details are on www.hilltownhikers.com .  Please email westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com or call/text 413-302-0312 if you have any questions.  As always be prepared for rocks\, mud and roots\, bring trekking poles! \nWant to hike every weekend year round? Become a Hilltown Hiker Member! Get access to our private Messenger Group Text with hike and event announcements that are member exclusive events.  You can sign up securely with a credit card on our shopping page here  \nFollow us on Facebook\, Instagram\, and YouTube. Tees\, hoodies\, hats\, patches and photos will be for sale by donation at the event.  See all our events\, maps\, blog and photos at www.hilltownhikers.com Please keep our beautiful places clean and carry in and carry out. \nDonate here: \nVia our website Western Mass Hilltown Hikers \nVia Paypal at paypal.me/hilltownhikers  \nVia Venmo:  @hilltownhikers \nVia Square: Home | Western Mass Hilltown Hikers (square.site)   \nGROUP HIKES AND TOURS SINCE 2010\nMission Statement: Western Mass Hilltown Hikers\, Inc. is organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes to engage in all legal activities relating to the development\, maintenance and operation of recreational hiking and outdoor adventure in Western Massachusetts.  We are a non-profit 501C(3) organization incorporated in the State of Massachusetts. Tax ID #86-2532249 \nShare this:Tweet\n				Email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)\n				Email\n			\n				Print (Opens in new window)\n				Print\n			MoreLike this:Like Loading…
URL:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/event/reservoir-rocks-group-hike-with-christy-butler/
LOCATION:Quarry Street\, Quarry Street\, Great Barrington\, ma\, 01230
CATEGORIES:Group Hikes
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Compress_20240408_075130_0308.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Western Mass Hilltown Hikers":MAILTO:westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250921T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250921T150000
DTSTAMP:20260518T100442
CREATED:20250124T000303Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250809T005442Z
UID:60006-1758459600-1758466800@westernmasshilltownhikers.com
SUMMARY:Chester Granite Saw and Polishing Works Tour
DESCRIPTION:Parking: Emery Street Chester at the Granite Saw Parking Lot across from the Ballfield \nDirections:  From junction of Rts 20 & 102 in Lee\, take Rt. 20 east and drive 18 miles to the Chester center\, turn left onto Main Street and bear right onto Prospect Street under the railroad and turn right to continue on Emery Street to the parking lot across from the ballfield. GPS 42.279570\, -72.975155 \nHike Rating: Easy 1 mile\, mostly flat terrain on dirt \nJoin us for a special Housatonic Heritage event! The Hudson and Chester Granite Company was one of two granite finishing works in Chester for cutting and polishing the granite brought down to the Historic Factory Village on the Chester and Becket Railroad which was built for this purpose in 1896. “Chester Blue Granite” was brought down the steep mountain railroad from the Hudson and Chester quarry\, known today as the Becket Quarry in Becket. The finishing works burned down after many prosperous years in business making monuments and gravestones and has been private property since\, until now. In September of 2023 the Hilltown Hikers purchased this lot\, including a ten-foot shot saw and all the remains of its buildings and equipment. Tour the property on our newly created walking path and learn about the Granite Industry in Chester and Becket. Donations for the conserved Chester Granite and Polishing Works property are greatly appreciated. \nRegister \nThis is a Housatonic Heritage special event! \nHousatonic Heritage Events 2025 Housatonic Heritage Walks – Housatonic Heritage \nPlease Register per car load on https://westernmasshilltownhikers.ticketleap.com Maps and bottled water provided.  Well behaved dogs allowed. Event is volunteer lead. Suggested donation is $15.  More details are on www.hilltownhikers.com .  Please email westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com or call/text 413-302-0312 if you have any questions.  As always be prepared for rocks\, mud and roots\, bring trekking poles! \nWant to hike every weekend year round? Become a Hilltown Hiker Member! Get access to our private Messenger Group Text with hike and event announcements that are member exclusive events.  You can sign up securely with a credit card on our shopping page here  \nFollow us on Facebook\, Instagram\, and YouTube. Tees\, hoodies\, hats\, patches and photos will be for sale by donation at the event.  See all our events\, maps\, blog and photos at www.hilltownhikers.com Please keep our beautiful places clean and carry in and carry out. \nDonate here: \nVia our website Western Mass Hilltown Hikers \nVia Paypal at paypal.me/hilltownhikers  \nVia Venmo:  @hilltownhikers \nVia Square: Home | Western Mass Hilltown Hikers (square.site)   \nGROUP HIKES AND TOURS SINCE 2010\nMission Statement: Western Mass Hilltown Hikers\, Inc. is organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes to engage in all legal activities relating to the development\, maintenance and operation of recreational hiking and outdoor adventure in Western Massachusetts.  We are a non-profit 501C(3) organization incorporated in the State of Massachusetts. Tax ID #86-2532249 \n \nShare this:Tweet\n				Email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)\n				Email\n			\n				Print (Opens in new window)\n				Print\n			MoreLike this:Like Loading…
URL:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/event/chester-granite-saw-and-polishing-works-tour/
LOCATION:Chester Granite Saw\, 9 Prospect Street\, Chester\, ma\, 01011
CATEGORIES:Group Hikes
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Compress_20240320_081047_7657-2.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Western Mass Hilltown Hikers":MAILTO:westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250920T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250920T130000
DTSTAMP:20260518T100442
CREATED:20250305T183956Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250329T204831Z
UID:61313-1758362400-1758373200@westernmasshilltownhikers.com
SUMMARY:Knox Trail Hike in Otis with Tom Ragusa
DESCRIPTION:Western Mass Hilltown Hikers Group Tour \nGuided Hike on the Knox Trail in Otis \nSeptember 20th@10:00 am \nParking: On Norton Road Extension near house #92 Otis\, MA  01253 \nDirections:  Take Route 23 East or West to the Center of Otis take Norton Road and bear right onto Norton Road Extension to end of road. \nHike Rating: Easy to Moderate 3 miles in and back with very little elevation \nJoin us on a journey on the original “Ye Trodden Path” to follow the footsteps of the men who saved our country. Narrated by Mr. Tom Ragusa\, local historian\, our journey will take us through a section in Otis stopping at each historical location along the way listening to Tom’s amazing stories. During the winter of 1775-1776 Gen George Washington held the high ground around Boston while the British were firmly in control of the city. If Washington had artillery\, he could dislodge the British and retake Boston. The nearest available artillery was at Fort Ticonderoga\, under Continental Army control\, in up-state NY. Gen Henry Knox then was commissioned in Dec 1775\, by Gen Washington to secure these artillery pieces and transport them from NY\, through Massachusetts to Dorchester Heights outside Boston. To do this Gen Knox successfully crossed the Berkshire Mountains and large rivers in winter\, with 59 pieces of artillery. When the artillery arrived in Boston in early March 1776\, Gen Howe realized the hopelessness of his position and evacuated the city. \nThis is a Housatonic Heritage and Mass 250 special event! \nHousatonic Heritage Events 2025 Housatonic Heritage Walks – Housatonic Heritage \nIn 2025 and 2026\, Massachusetts 250 will commemorate the many battles across the state that led to America’s independence. Experience the birthplace of American Liberty\, where history was made\, and the future was forged. In Massachusetts\, we are embracing our history\, the untold and little-known stories; we are celebrating our independence and innovations from the past 250 years. Join us – from the hills of the Berkshires to the Blackstone Valley\, from the North and South Shore to the Cape and the islands – as we commemorate big events and untold stories and celebrate the revolutions still to come. learn more at MA250 – A History of Possibility \nRegister \nPlease Register per car load on https://westernmasshilltownhikers.ticketleap.com Maps and bottled water provided.  Well behaved dogs allowed. Event is volunteer lead. Suggested donation is $15.  More details are on www.hilltownhikers.com .  Please email westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com or call/text 413-302-0312 if you have any questions.  As always be prepared for rocks\, mud and roots\, bring trekking poles! \nWant to hike every weekend year round? Become a Hilltown Hiker Member! Get access to our private Messenger Group Text with hike and event announcements that are member exclusive events.  You can sign up securely with a credit card on our shopping page here  \nFollow us on Facebook\, Instagram\, and YouTube. Tees\, hoodies\, hats\, patches and photos will be for sale by donation at the event.  See all our events\, maps\, blog and photos at www.hilltownhikers.com Please keep our beautiful places clean and carry in and carry out. \nDonate here: \nVia our website Western Mass Hilltown Hikers \nVia Paypal at paypal.me/hilltownhikers  \nVia Venmo:  @hilltownhikers \nVia Square: Home | Western Mass Hilltown Hikers (square.site)   \nGROUP HIKES AND TOURS SINCE 2010\nMission Statement: Western Mass Hilltown Hikers\, Inc. is organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes to engage in all legal activities relating to the development\, maintenance and operation of recreational hiking and outdoor adventure in Western Massachusetts.  We are a non-profit 501C(3) organization incorporated in the State of Massachusetts. Tax ID #86-2532249 \n \nShare this:Tweet\n				Email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)\n				Email\n			\n				Print (Opens in new window)\n				Print\n			MoreLike this:Like Loading…
URL:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/event/knox-trail-hike-in-otis/
LOCATION:Norton Road Extension\, 92 Norton Road Extension\, Otis\, ma\, 01253
CATEGORIES:Group Hikes
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Screenshot_20210416-210434_Chrome.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Western Mass Hilltown Hikers":MAILTO:westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250907T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250907T160000
DTSTAMP:20260518T100442
CREATED:20250124T001232Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250329T212814Z
UID:60010-1757250000-1757260800@westernmasshilltownhikers.com
SUMMARY:Chester and Becket Railroad Tour
DESCRIPTION:Parking: On Hampden Street at the Chester and Becket Trailhead Chester 01011  Directions:  From junction of Rts 20 & 102 in Lee\, take Rt. 20 east and drive 18 miles to the Chester/Becket town line\, turn right on Hampden Street to the trailhead. GPS 42.279567\, -72.988070 \nHike Rating: Easy 2.5 miles in and back\, mostly flat terrain on dirt \nJoin us for a special Housatonic Heritage event to hike on a section of the Chester and Becket Railroad. Built in 1896 as a 5.25-mile spur off the Boston & Albany Railroad to deliver granite from the Becket Quarries to the Chester finishing works. Both Chester and Becket issued bond stock in the quarry company to help in building this line because there was money to be made from the “Chester Blue Granite” for monuments and gravestones. This railroad was blasted out of the steep and winding side of the Walker Brook Valley. The first locomotive to run on this line was a wood burner\, eventually upgraded to a coal burning locomotive. We will see the remains of a wooden trestle still standing on the trail and also learn how this route was used in Chester’s Emery industry. Donations for the newly conserved Chester Granite Company Finishing Works property are greatly appreciated.  \nThis is a special Housatonic Heritage Event!    \nHousatonic Heritage Events 2025 Housatonic Heritage Walks – Housatonic Heritage \nRegister\n  \n  \nPlease Register per car load on https://westernmasshilltownhikers.ticketleap.com Maps and bottled water provided.  Well behaved dogs allowed. Event is volunteer lead. Suggested donation is $15.  More details are on www.hilltownhikers.com .  Please email westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com or call/text 413-302-0312 if you have any questions.  As always be prepared for rocks\, mud and roots\, bring trekking poles! \nWant to hike every weekend year round? Become a Hilltown Hiker Member! Get access to our private Messenger Group Text with hike and event announcements that are member exclusive events.  You can sign up securely with a credit card on our shopping page here  \nFollow us on Facebook\, Instagram\, and YouTube. Tees\, hoodies\, hats\, patches and photos will be for sale by donation at the event.  See all our events\, maps\, blog and photos at www.hilltownhikers.com Please keep our beautiful places clean and carry in and carry out. \nDonate here: \nVia our website Western Mass Hilltown Hikers \nVia Paypal at paypal.me/hilltownhikers  \nVia Venmo:  @hilltownhikers \nVia Square: Home | Western Mass Hilltown Hikers (square.site)   \nGROUP HIKES AND TOURS SINCE 2010\nMission Statement: Western Mass Hilltown Hikers\, Inc. is organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes to engage in all legal activities relating to the development\, maintenance and operation of recreational hiking and outdoor adventure in Western Massachusetts.  We are a non-profit 501C(3) organization incorporated in the State of Massachusetts. Tax ID #86-2532249 \n \nShare this:Tweet\n				Email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)\n				Email\n			\n				Print (Opens in new window)\n				Print\n			MoreLike this:Like Loading…
URL:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/event/chester-and-becket-railroad-tour/
LOCATION:Chester and Becket Railroad\, Hampden Street\, Chester\, ma\, 01011
CATEGORIES:Group Hikes
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/20211127_114531-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Western Mass Hilltown Hikers":MAILTO:westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250824T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250824T160000
DTSTAMP:20260518T100442
CREATED:20250709T225729Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250709T231738Z
UID:64870-1756029600-1756051200@westernmasshilltownhikers.com
SUMMARY:Art Walk Through History\, Pioneer Valley Historical Network Special Event
DESCRIPTION:We are pleased to announce we will be at the\n“ART WALK THROUGH HISTORY”\nPIONEER VALLEY HISTORICAL NETWORK on August 24th in Agawam at the Polish American Club 139 Southwick St. Feeding Hills\, MA\nMembers of the Pioneer Valley Historical Network will be attending the 5TH Annual Pioneer Valley Art Festival.\nTogether the group will introduce their “History On the Go” initiative that brings\ntogether historical institutions for a coordinated “trail” of history-themed visits\, allowing the public to explore local history. They will bring a wealth of historical\nknowledge with them to share with our guests. Take a walk through history and\nenjoy their stories of our local historical past. Learn More Here! —->ACAA Art Festivals and Shows – agawamarts.com\n\n\nShare this:Tweet\n				Email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)\n				Email\n			\n				Print (Opens in new window)\n				Print\n			MoreLike this:Like Loading…
URL:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/event/art-walk-through-history-pioneer-valley-historical-network/
LOCATION:Polish American Club\, 139 Southwick Street\, Feeding Hills\, ma
CATEGORIES:Group Hikes,Social Events/Fundraisers
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Copy-of-Pioneer-Valley-Art-Fest-4.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Western Mass Hilltown Hikers":MAILTO:westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250823T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250823T140000
DTSTAMP:20260518T100442
CREATED:20250123T235723Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250329T204052Z
UID:60003-1755943200-1755957600@westernmasshilltownhikers.com
SUMMARY:Wild Acres Pittsfield
DESCRIPTION:Western Mass Hilltown Hikers Group Hike \nWild Acres Pittsfield \nAugust 23rd at 10:00 am \nParking: 500 South Mountain Road\, Pittsfield\, MA \nDirections: Take South Mountain Road from South Street\, at the fork in the road bear left and continue to the large parking lot with the pavilions. \nHike Rating: Fun! Easy 2 miles\, several loops \nJoin us for a fun hike at Pittsfield’s hidden oasis\, Wild Acres.  A large parking lot with pavilions for events makes this a great family friendly destination for a day out and a place to picnic lunch and there is so much more….Short and easy hiking loops great for dog walking and children\, wetlands and ponds for wildlife viewing in all seasons all with many benches. There is a surprise around every bend here including a lookout tower that overlooks a marsh with wide views of the Yokun Ridge.  Probably the most fun here is getting up close to the Pittsfield Municipal Airport where you can watch the planes take off and land\, watch from the ground or from the tower all with an excellent view of the Berkshires. \nThe History: \nWild Acres was once an 83-acre piece of land owned by the Shakers\, who built its pond. After the 80-year tenure with the Shakers\, it was sold to successful shoemaker\, C. Dudley Holman. Avid birders\, Holman and his wife Clementine added log cabins to the property\, concrete dams to the pond\, and cordoned off a white-sand spring with water temperatures of 42 degrees.  After her husband’s death in 1929\, Clementine sold the property and it was opened as a private outdoors recreation and sportsman’s club under the Walton League. The endeavors of the Walton Sanctuary were fraught with financial difficulties and eventually\, the property was given to the city of Pittsfield in 1965. It was during this time that 12-acres were whittled off for an airport runway extension. With the help of the YACC in the ’70s\, the Conservation Commission oversaw extensive construction of buildings\, recreational amenities\, and picnic areas.  In 2007\, 21-acres was again lost to the airport for expansion\, this time replaced by an additional 84-acres of undeveloped forest and farmland acquired by eminent domain. courtesy Berkshire Family Hikes. \n Bring the family and a picnic lunch let’s go have some fun! \nRegister \nPlease Register per car load on https://westernmasshilltownhikers.ticketleap.com Maps and bottled water provided.  Well behaved dogs allowed. Event is volunteer lead. Suggested donation is $15.  More details are on www.hilltownhikers.com .  Please email westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com or call/text 413-302-0312 if you have any questions.  As always be prepared for rocks\, mud and roots\, bring trekking poles! \nWant to hike every weekend year round? Become a Hilltown Hiker Member! Get access to our private Messenger Group Text with hike and event announcements that are member exclusive events.  You can sign up securely with a credit card on our shopping page here  \nFollow us on Facebook\, Instagram\, and YouTube. Tees\, hoodies\, hats\, patches and photos will be for sale by donation at the event.  See all our events\, maps\, blog and photos at www.hilltownhikers.com Please keep our beautiful places clean and carry in and carry out. \nDonate here: \nVia our website Western Mass Hilltown Hikers \nVia Paypal at paypal.me/hilltownhikers  \nVia Venmo:  @hilltownhikers \nVia Square: Home | Western Mass Hilltown Hikers (square.site)   \nGROUP HIKES AND TOURS SINCE 2010\nMission Statement: Western Mass Hilltown Hikers\, Inc. is organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes to engage in all legal activities relating to the development\, maintenance and operation of recreational hiking and outdoor adventure in Western Massachusetts.  We are a non-profit 501C(3) organization incorporated in the State of Massachusetts. Tax ID #86-2532249 \n \nShare this:Tweet\n				Email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)\n				Email\n			\n				Print (Opens in new window)\n				Print\n			MoreLike this:Like Loading…
URL:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/event/wild-acres-pittsfield/
LOCATION:Wild Acres Conservation Area\, 500 South Mountain Road\, Pittsfield\, MA\, 01201
CATEGORIES:Group Hikes
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Compress_20240715_080925_5434.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Western Mass Hilltown Hikers":MAILTO:westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250801T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250803T160000
DTSTAMP:20260518T100442
CREATED:20250124T004812Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250329T211451Z
UID:60028-1754064000-1754236800@westernmasshilltownhikers.com
SUMMARY:Hilltown Hikers at the Littleville Fair
DESCRIPTION:  \n\nHilltown Hikers at the Littleville Fair\n\nAugust 1\, 2025 @ 4:00 pm–August 3\, 2025 @ 4:00 pm\nSpecial Events…..hikes\, paddling and classes at our booth.  Our booth will be set up for the entirety of the fair.  We are offering several special activities at our booth. \nSaturday August 2nd Hilltown Hikers Events (no registration needed): \nGAIA GPS on your phone workshop    Time:  TBD \nWhat is in Your Pack?   Time:  TBD \nPaddling at Dayville   Time:  TBD \nHike the Littleville History  Time:  TBD \nSunday August 3rd Hilltown Hikers Events: \nTry our Gear  Time:  all day \nLittleville Fair INFO  https://littlevillefair.com/ \n\n\nShare this:Tweet\n				Email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)\n				Email\n			\n				Print (Opens in new window)\n				Print\n			MoreLike this:Like Loading…
URL:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/event/hilltown-hikers-at-the-littleville-fair-3/
LOCATION:Littleville Fairgrounds\, 15 Kinnebrook Road\, Chester\, MA\, 01011\, United States
CATEGORIES:Group Hikes
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/littleville-logo.webp
ORGANIZER;CN="Western Mass Hilltown Hikers":MAILTO:westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250731T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250731T200000
DTSTAMP:20260518T100442
CREATED:20250709T224457Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250709T224529Z
UID:64866-1753986600-1753992000@westernmasshilltownhikers.com
SUMMARY:Huntington Summer Music on the Green Fundraiser
DESCRIPTION:We will be at the 2025 Huntington Summer Music event on Thursday July 31st 6:30 to 8:00 pm with FOOD!\n\nYes! we are cooking and baking to fundraise for our non-profit organization. Come on down and listen to great LIVE music from the Hellcats on the Huntington Town Green on Route 20 courtesy of the Huntington Community Events Committee and the Huntington Cultural Council!  Bring your lawn chair and come out for great music and food!  Admission is FREE!\n\nRoute 20 Huntington Center on the town Green next to Stanton Hall.  24 Russell Road\, Huntington\, MA  01050 corner of Route 20 and Route 112.\n\nShare this:Tweet\n				Email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)\n				Email\n			\n				Print (Opens in new window)\n				Print\n			MoreLike this:Like Loading…
URL:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/event/huntington-music-on-the-green-fundraiser/
LOCATION:stanton hall\, 24 Russell Road\, Huntington\, ma\, 01050
CATEGORIES:Group Hikes,Social Events/Fundraisers
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Huntington-Music-Fest-2025.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Western Mass Hilltown Hikers":MAILTO:westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250726T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250726T150000
DTSTAMP:20260518T100442
CREATED:20250123T235536Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250329T201907Z
UID:60000-1753524000-1753542000@westernmasshilltownhikers.com
SUMMARY:Snow Hole Taconic Crest Trail Williamstown/Pownal VT
DESCRIPTION:Snow Hole Taconic Crest\nJuly 26thth at 10:00 am\nParking: Petersburg Pass Parking Lot on Route 2 Williamstown\, MA 01267 Petersburg\, NY State Line Google Map Code PPFC+8V\nHike Rating: Moderate plus 5.8 miles in and back ridgeline hike with 872 feet of total elevation gain with options for less. \nJoin us for a hike along the scenic ridge trail known as the Taconic Crest to the “Snowhole” on the Taconic Mountain Range where MA\, NY\, and VT come together. This rare geophysical treasure is a 40-50-foot-deep bedrock chasm that holds snow and ice well into the warmest summer months. We will start at the lost Petersburg Pass Ski Resort founded in 1962 on the NY/MA Border. We will enjoy many scenic vistas on the trail maintained by the Williams College Outing Club inside the Memorial Forest and by the State of New York and the Taconic Crest Club. The start of the walk from the parking area is fairly steep\, but very short\, then we follow the Taconic Crest Trail over gently rolling terrain for approximately 1-1.5 hours passing the Shepard’s Well and Birch Brook side trails along the way. Bring your good camera\, head lamp and snacks\, we are hiking three states and enjoying the scenic vistas to Vermont! \nRegister \nPlease Register per car load on https://westernmasshilltownhikers.ticketleap.com Maps and bottled water provided.  Well behaved dogs allowed. Event is volunteer lead. Suggested donation is $15.  More details are on www.hilltownhikers.com .  Please email westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com or call/text 413-302-0312 if you have any questions.  As always be prepared for rocks\, mud and roots\, bring trekking poles! \nWant to hike every weekend year round? Become a Hilltown Hiker Member! Get access to our private Messenger Group Text with hike and event announcements that are member exclusive events.  You can sign up securely with a credit card on our shopping page here  \nFollow us on Facebook\, Instagram\, and YouTube. Tees\, hoodies\, hats\, patches and photos will be for sale by donation at the event.  See all our events\, maps\, blog and photos at www.hilltownhikers.com Please keep our beautiful places clean and carry in and carry out. \nDonate here: \nVia our website Western Mass Hilltown Hikers \nVia Paypal at paypal.me/hilltownhikers  \nVia Venmo:  @hilltownhikers \nVia Square: Home | Western Mass Hilltown Hikers (square.site)   \nGROUP HIKES AND TOURS SINCE 2010\nMission Statement: Western Mass Hilltown Hikers\, Inc. is organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes to engage in all legal activities relating to the development\, maintenance and operation of recreational hiking and outdoor adventure in Western Massachusetts.  We are a non-profit 501C(3) organization incorporated in the State of Massachusetts. Tax ID #86-2532249 \n \nShare this:Tweet\n				Email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)\n				Email\n			\n				Print (Opens in new window)\n				Print\n			MoreLike this:Like Loading…
URL:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/event/snow-hole-taconic-crest-trail-williamstown/
LOCATION:Petersburg Pass\, PPFC+8V\, Petersburgh\, NY\, 12138
CATEGORIES:Group Hikes
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/for-snow-hole-flyer.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Western Mass Hilltown Hikers":MAILTO:westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250614T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250614T140000
DTSTAMP:20260518T100442
CREATED:20250123T235206Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250327T125923Z
UID:59996-1749895200-1749909600@westernmasshilltownhikers.com
SUMMARY:Azalea Fields Pittsfield State Forest
DESCRIPTION:with DCR Interpretive Coordinator Alec Gillman! \n \nWestern Mass Hilltown Hikers Group Hike \nAzalea Fields Pittsfield State Forest \nJune 14th at 10:00 am \nParking: Berry Mountain Vista Lot.  Pittsfield State Forest 1041 Cascade Street\, Pittsfield\, MA  01201.  Enter the State Park at Cascade Street and drive to the Berry Mountain Access Road\, dirt parking lot on your right. \nHike Rating: Moderate 3.36 miles ridgeline hike with 600 feet of total elevation gain with options for less. \nJoin DCR Interpretive Coordinator Alec Gillman on one of the most beautiful mountaintops to experience the best the Taconic Ridge has to offer…sixty five acres of wild azaleas. Berry Hill named for William Berry\, a Revolutionary War veteran who owned land here is filled with the sweet smell of blooms of many varieties of the pink wild flowers and at 2\,060-feet\, Berry Pond is the highest natural water body in Massachusetts. We will hike the Berry Pond shoreline and then follow the Taconic Crest Trail to Tower Mountain then return on the Pine Mountain Trail to visit Tilden Swamp with its bog vegetation. Our hike will start at the dirt parking lot known as the New York Overlook with commanding views of the Catskills and Albany. Berry Hill is also a well known hawk watching site and many different varieties of wildlife can be seen here at this high elevation. Come explore this hidden gem on the New York Massachusetts border\, one of our greatest State Forests filled with the most exciting trails and grand vistas! \nRegister\n  \nPlease Register per car load on https://westernmasshilltownhikers.ticketleap.com Maps and bottled water provided.  Well behaved dogs allowed. Event is volunteer lead. Suggested donation is $15.  More details are on www.hilltownhikers.com .  Please email westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com or call/text 413-302-0312 if you have any questions.  As always be prepared for rocks\, mud and roots\, bring trekking poles! \nWant to hike every weekend year round? Become a Hilltown Hiker Member! Get access to our private Messenger Group Text with hike and event announcements that are member exclusive events.  You can sign up securely with a credit card on our shopping page here  \nFollow us on Facebook\, Instagram\, and YouTube. Tees\, hoodies\, hats\, patches and photos will be for sale by donation at the event.  See all our events\, maps\, blog and photos at www.hilltownhikers.com Please keep our beautiful places clean and carry in and carry out. \nDonate here: \nVia our website Western Mass Hilltown Hikers \nVia Paypal at paypal.me/hilltownhikers  \nVia Venmo:  @hilltownhikers \nVia Square: Home | Western Mass Hilltown Hikers (square.site)   \nGROUP HIKES AND TOURS SINCE 2010\nMission Statement: Western Mass Hilltown Hikers\, Inc. is organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes to engage in all legal activities relating to the development\, maintenance and operation of recreational hiking and outdoor adventure in Western Massachusetts.  We are a non-profit 501C(3) organization incorporated in the State of Massachusetts. Tax ID #86-2532249 \n \nShare this:Tweet\n				Email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)\n				Email\n			\n				Print (Opens in new window)\n				Print\n			MoreLike this:Like Loading…
URL:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/event/pittsfield-state-forest-hike-in-the-azaleas/
LOCATION:Pittsfield State Forest
CATEGORIES:Group Hikes
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Compress_20240809_073332_2309.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Western Mass Hilltown Hikers":MAILTO:westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250605T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250609T100000
DTSTAMP:20260518T100442
CREATED:20250213T200042Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250301T002747Z
UID:60681-1749132000-1749463200@westernmasshilltownhikers.com
SUMMARY:Camping in Chesterfield
DESCRIPTION:Camping Weekend in Chesterfield \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFirst time camper or a lover of sleeping under the stars….this trip is for you! \nAdventure awaits you at our camping event at the Indian Hollow private campground in Chesterfield\, Thursday June 5th thru Monday June 9th. This campground located in the valley of the East Branch of the Westfield River is only available to groups\, and only two at a time making this trip exclusive! \nWe welcome you to discover the beauty of nature here at the river\, the history of a forgotten valley once occupied by a village in colonial times and adventure hiking and paddling with over 11 miles of trails to discover. \nCamp on your own (the place is very large)\, or camp near friends; set up your tent and enjoy four full days of little to no cell service (there is a pay phone) and peace and quiet. We supply the firewood and someone always is eager to tend the campfire. Bring your own food and some to share with others. Bring your kayak\, inner tube or paddleboard and enjoy the beautiful untouched river far from any road (you can drive up on the grass and unload your gear). Come for one night\, one day or all nights! \nFacilities Include: Bathhouse with shower and flushing toilets\, hot water\, drinking water\, one power plug outside the bathhouse\, grills\, campfire circles\, pay phone. \nThis year we are at the NORTH LOOP ALONG THE RIVER \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPlease sign up by filling out the form below. \nDATE: Thursday June 5th at 2pm to Monday June 9th at 10am \nLOCATION: Indian Hollow Road\, Chesterfield\, MA \nCOST: Free for Hilltown Hikers Members/non-members $50 suggested donation DONATE HERE \nPREP: Bring your own food\, tent\, hiking gear\, inner tube/raft\, kayak\, water shoes\, fishing pole \nDIRECTIONS: Driving directions to the campground: Address: 200 Indian Hollow Rd\, Chesterfield\, MA 01012 From intersection of State Route 143 and South Street in the center of Chesterfield\, turn south on South Street. Follow for approx. 2 miles and turn right onto Indian Hollow Road. Follow Indian Hollow Road to the end\, campground gate is at end of the road.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nVisit our Website\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGive to your local charity today!\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWestern Mass Hilltown Hikers\, Inc. \nPO Box 3 \nChester\, MA 01011 \nWe are a non-profit 501C(3) organization incorporated in the State of Massachusetts. Tax ID #86-2532249 \nGUIDED GROUP HIKES AND TOURS SINCE 2010\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMembers camp for FREE!  Non-Members suggested donation $50.00 DONATE HERE\n\n← Back Thank you for your response. ✨\n\n\n					\n						\n							\n							\n						\n						\n						\n						\n						\n							\n								\n									\n										\n										\n									\n									\n										\n										\n									\n								\n							\n						\n						\n							\n								\n									\n									\n										\n									\n									\n									\n								\n							\n						\n					\n				\n\n\n\nName(required)\n\n \n			\n				\n					\n						\n						\n						\n					\n				\n				\n			 \n	\n\n\nEmail(required)\n\n \n			\n				\n					\n						\n						\n						\n					\n				\n				\n			 \n	\n\n\nWebsite\n\n \n			\n				\n					\n						\n						\n						\n					\n				\n				\n			 \n	\n\n\nMessage\n\n \n			\n				\n					\n						\n						\n						\n					\n				\n				\n			\n	\n	\n\n				\n					\n				\n						Submit		\n		\n		\n	 \nΔ\n \n\nShare this:Tweet\n				Email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)\n				Email\n			\n				Print (Opens in new window)\n				Print\n			MoreLike this:Like Loading…
URL:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/event/camping-in-chesterfield/
LOCATION:Indian Hollow Campground\, 200 Indian Hollow Rd\,\, chesterfield\, 01012\, United States
CATEGORIES:Group Hikes
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Compress_20230612_083923_3811-2.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Western Mass Hilltown Hikers":MAILTO:westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250524T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250524T140000
DTSTAMP:20260518T100442
CREATED:20250123T234910Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250327T130040Z
UID:59993-1748080800-1748095200@westernmasshilltownhikers.com
SUMMARY:Appalachian Trail to Goose Pond Cabin
DESCRIPTION:  \n \nWestern Mass Hilltown Hikers Group Hike \nAppalachian Trail to Goose Pond Cabin Hike \nMay 24th at 10:00 am (approximately 4 hours) \nParking: Google Maps Address: Jacob’s Ladder Scenic Byway and Appalachian Trail Parking Area\, Route 20 Lee\, MA 01238 \nHike Rating: Moderate Plus 4.5 miles in and back with 450 feet of elevation gain \nJoin us on the Appalachian Trail in Becket where we will hike through Tyringham and Lee to the remote and beautiful Upper Goose Pond. We will hike on bog bridges\, pass an old saw mill and hike along the Greenwater Pond Dam and cross the now defunct Huckleberry Trolley Line to the Massachusetts Turnpike. We will climb the first of two spiral ramps accessing the footbridge that takes the A.T. across the Mass Pike (I-90).  The bridge also serves as a route for snowmobiles in the winter and soon there will be a new animal crossing bridge here.  After crossing the upper bridge\, we will climb until we reach the boundary of the Goose Pond Natural Area 0.9 miles from the parking area.  This area preserves the land surrounding Upper Goose Pond in an undeveloped state. There will be rock steps\, mountain laurel and roots on this section. We will reach the junction with the ½ mile blue-blazed access trail to Upper Goose Pond Cabin\, owned by the National Parks Service.  The Cabin is a popular destination for through hikers offering a pancake breakfast by the volunteer AMC caretaker from mid-May to mid-October.  We will enjoy the views of both Lower and Upper Goose pond from the cabin and then return back. \nRegister\n  \nPlease Register per car load on https://westernmasshilltownhikers.ticketleap.com Maps and bottled water provided.  Well behaved dogs allowed. Event is volunteer lead. Suggested donation is $15.  More details are on www.hilltownhikers.com .  Please email westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com or call/text 413-302-0312 if you have any questions.  As always be prepared for rocks\, mud and roots\, bring trekking poles! \nWant to hike every weekend year round? Become a Hilltown Hiker Member! Get access to our private Messenger Group Text with hike and event announcements that are member exclusive events.  You can sign up securely with a credit card on our shopping page here  \nFollow us on Facebook\, Instagram\, and YouTube. Tees\, hoodies\, hats\, patches and photos will be for sale by donation at the event.  See all our events\, maps\, blog and photos at www.hilltownhikers.com Please keep our beautiful places clean and carry in and carry out. \nDonate here: \nVia our website Western Mass Hilltown Hikers \nVia Paypal at paypal.me/hilltownhikers  \nVia Venmo:  @hilltownhikers \nVia Square: Home | Western Mass Hilltown Hikers (square.site)   \nGROUP HIKES AND TOURS SINCE 2010\nMission Statement: Western Mass Hilltown Hikers\, Inc. is organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes to engage in all legal activities relating to the development\, maintenance and operation of recreational hiking and outdoor adventure in Western Massachusetts.  We are a non-profit 501C(3) organization incorporated in the State of Massachusetts. Tax ID #86-2532249 \nMay 2025 Goose Pond pdf    Lee-AT-Trail-Access-Points pdf \n \nShare this:Tweet\n				Email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)\n				Email\n			\n				Print (Opens in new window)\n				Print\n			MoreLike this:Like Loading…
URL:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/event/goose-pond-appalachian-trail-becket/
LOCATION:Appalachian Trail Trailhead Parking Jacobs Ladder Scenic Byway Becket\, 7RVQ+5C\, Lee\, MA\, 01238\, United States
CATEGORIES:Group Hikes
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Compress_20240621_080254_4524.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Western Mass Hilltown Hikers":MAILTO:westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250517T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250517T170000
DTSTAMP:20260518T100442
CREATED:20250418T233334Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250418T233334Z
UID:62611-1747472400-1747501200@westernmasshilltownhikers.com
SUMMARY:Granite Saw Tours May 17th
DESCRIPTION:Guided Tours on May 17th during Chester On Track 9am to 5pm!\nOur tour guides will be at 7 Prospect Street across from the Historic Chester Railway Station.\nThere is also a foot path entrance located across from Emery Ballfield on Emery Street.\nThis property is in phase TWO of its cleanup and presentation to the public! ON MAY 17th during Chester On Track we will be giving guided tours from 9am to 5pm at the one and only Chester Granite Saw and Finishing Works!\n\n\n\nThe Chester Granite Saw is a stone cutting and finishing plant established in 1870 in Historic Chester Factory Village. It was purchased by the current President of the Western Mass Hilltown Hikers September 2023 and donated to that non-profit to conserve and historically preserve the entire mill operation. It is open to the public dawn to dusk every day with a walking path that passes by the old buildings\, machinery and the ten foot diameter shot saw structure which is still standing today. The Hilltown Hikers and it’s volunteers are cleaning up this property after eighty years of abandonment by cutting back invasive species\, dead ash trees\, fallen trees and 8 to 12 inches of sediment that has covered its floors. This project is one of a kind in Western Mass as the first stone finishing plant in the area where granite and marble was brought to Chester to be cut and finished for monuments\, historical buildings and more throughout the country by rail on it’s own Boston and Albany siding which visitors can see today. Be a part of this historic project to be enjoyed by generations to come by donating or volunteering on www.hilltownhikers.com\n\n\n\n\nSupport us at –> https://hilltownhikers.square.site/\nWestern Mass Hilltown Hikers @topfans\n#hikethehilltownhistory Visit Massachusetts Explore Western Mass #hikethehilltowns with the #westernmasshilltownhikers #discoverthehilltowns #hilltownhistory #flashhike #intheberkshires #nature #adventure #history #hiking #outdooradventures #visittheberkshires #mylocalMA #visitma #hilltownhikers #westernmass #hikingwithdogs\nVisit our blog for all of our adventures! want to come along on these hikes? Become a member at www.hilltownhikers.com\nHelp conserve the Chester Granite Saw\, our newest property!\nYou can mail your tax-deductible donation to Western Mass Hilltown Hikers\, PO Box 3\, Chester\, MA 01011\nVenmo @hilltownhikers\nStay informed – join our mailing list https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/…/hilltownhikeremail\n\nShare this:Tweet\n				Email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)\n				Email\n			\n				Print (Opens in new window)\n				Print\n			MoreLike this:Like Loading…
URL:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/event/granite-saw-tours-may-17th/
LOCATION:Chester Granite Saw\, 9 Prospect Street\, Chester\, ma\, 01011
CATEGORIES:Group Hikes
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://westernmasshilltownhikers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/donation-flyer-saw.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Western Mass Hilltown Hikers":MAILTO:westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com
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