Upcoming Chapter Activities

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Gym Climbing at CRG Hadley

Work week got you down? Please join the Mountaineering Committee for some midweek climbing! We will meet at 5:30p PM at Central Rock Gym in Hadley for a few hours of laid-back climbing and socializing.

Wapack Trail: Mount Watatic and Pratt Mountain Viewpoint

Hike ~8.5 miles out and back on the Wapack Trail, which includes Mt Watatic with 360° views and the Pratt Mountain viewpoint overlooking Binney Pond. Difficulty: vigorous mostly due to distance. Terrain is mixed including steep and moderate sections with ~1,500 ft of elevation overall.

Season of the Sticks Weekend

Do you frown when the scenery starts to get brown? Maybe it's the shorter days and encroaching cold. Or maybe you are anxiously awaiting for the ice to form and the snow to fall so you can get working on your winter objectives. Either way, stick season is that time of year that often goes underappreciated. But there is still plenty of natural beauty to be found in the brown. So come out and enjoy the transitionary time between the bright autumn leaves and the glistening winter landscape by joining the Western MA Mountaineering crew for a weekend of top rope rock climbing followed by a day of dry tooling (mixed climbing)! Break out those rock gloves and picks, pack some extra layers and a hot drink and get ready to send stick season.

Hidden Hikes in the Hilltowns

This hike will combine the Rivulet Trail at Bryant Homestead in Cummington with the Two Dams Trail in Worthington. Vertical gain is about 360 feet for these two trails, and walking time is about two hours without rests (but we will take rests and drive between the two trails, so figure closer to 3 hours). I can add a third trail in West Chesterfield at the end, if people are still in the mood. This is a beautiful little sample of hiking in the awesome November quiet of the Hilltowns' forests. Walking along a brook, strolling through of giant white pines, and a close-up visit to an enormous beaver dam are included.

Gym Climbing at CRG Hadley

Work week got you down? Please join the Mountaineering Committee for some midweek climbing! We will meet at 5:30p PM at Central Rock Gym in Hadley for a few hours of laid-back climbing and socializing.

[20s/30s+] Mindful Afternoon Walk at Burleigh Park

Go into the Thanksgiving holiday in zen mode! Join us for a relaxed early-afternoon walk within the beautiful Burleigh Park, where we'll slow down, breathe, and reconnect with the simple rhythm of walking outdoors together. We’ll meet at the Burleigh Park parking lot on Waverly Street in Palmer at 1:00 PM and set out for an easy, unhurried stroll of about 2 to 3 miles round-trip along quiet stretches of forest. Along the way, we'll pause for brief guided moments of mindfulness, breathing, listening, and noticing the colors and sounds of autumn. The pace will be gentle and conversational, open to all experience levels.

Wildlife Transect, Sages Ravine Area

It's been many years since we visited this area to check on how the wild things are using the area, so about time we did another check of the area. We do have some older records of moose being in the area and this past season multiple reports of bear presence, so who knows what we'll find ... always an adventure!

SendGiving - Western MA Mountaineering Social

SendGiving is BACK, you Rope-Gun Gobble Gobbles!!! AMC Western MA Mountaineering Committee invites you to our wildly un-serious, highly snack-based holiday gathering of climbers. What is SendGiving? It's like Thanksgiving, but instead of talking about the economy with your uncle, you talk about your last sketchy alpine anchor with people who actually want to hear about it. Refer to the registration page for more information, including what to bring.

Wednesday Night Climbing - CRG Hadley w/Social Hour at the Quarters

Please join the Mountaineering Committee and our friends from the 20s/30s Committee for an evening of socializing and climbing! We will meet at 5:30 PM at Central Rock Gym in Hadley, climb for a few hours, and then head over to the Quarters for a post-climbing social. We are excited to see some new faces and welcome those who are interested in learning more about climbing!

Outdoor Leadership Training (Hiking)

Join us for a fun, hands-on Outdoor Leadership Training session designed to build on AMC's self-paced online Outdoor Leader Fundamentals course (a link to the course will be sent to you upon registering). Whether you're an aspiring trip leader or just curious about what leadership on the trail looks like, this in-person training will offer a friendly, low-pressure environment to practice your skills and learn from your peers. Refer to the registration page for more information.

Wildlife Transect, Mt Prospect Area

This will be out first transect in this area - the watershed lands and northern part of the Mt Greylock State Reservation. We will approach the area from the Pattison Rd trailhead and climb to the Mt Prospect ridge top for the initial part of our search. If time and conditions permit, we will also explore the lower elevations of our trail lands nearer Pattison Rd.

Monument Mountain Reservation - Holiday Cookie Swap

For centuries, this mountain has attracted artists and writers (to include Nathaniel Hawthorne and Herman Melville), hikers and nature lovers for is spectacular views of the Southern Berkshires and Housatonic River Valley. We will begin our hike at the parking entrance to Monument Mountain Reservation off Rt 7 in Great Barrington. We will hike and explore the trails leading to Peeskawso Peak and Devil's Pulpit. Lunch will be the top with a holiday cookie swap for dessert. From this summit, we hope to have views of Mt Greylock and the Catskills. After lunch we will follow the trails back down to our cars.

Wildlife Transect, Vossburg Hills Area

This will be out first transect in this area; the Vossburg Hill area of Sheffield, MA. There is quite a mix of habitats in the area that we'll explore - who knows what we'll find!

[20s/30s+] Night Skiing at Berkshire East

Join AMC Western MA 20s/30s for a weekly night of skiing and snowboarding at Berkshire East Mountain Resort in Charlemont! We'll meet on Wednesday evenings throughout January and February for some midweek turns under the lights. This informal, social meetup welcomes skiers and riders of all abilities — whether you're making your first runs of the season, getting in some midweek laps, or just enjoying the classic New England ski hill atmosphere with good company. Please see the registration page for more information.

Wildlife Transect, West Branch Rd Area

It's been quite awhile since we did a transect in this area but hikes/snowshoes through the area in recent winters has indicated we can expect some interesting findings. This is a rugged area, particularly if we have significant snow, and we may need to use snowshoes so keep that in mind when deciding whether to join this one.

[20s/30s+] Winter Weekend at Cardigan Lodge

Join AMC Western MA 20s/30s for a two-night stay at Cardigan Lodge, at the base of Mt Cardigan in the foothills of the White Mountains. This is an unstructured, social weekend focused on shared meals, downtime, and community; perfect for easing into the new year with good people and good food. During the day, you might choose to hike to the summit of Mt Cardigan, go backcountry skiing, read by the fireplace, play board games, or relax with a warm drink. In the evenings, we'll gather for group meals, conversation, and whatever low-key fun the group is up for. Participants will help with meal prep, dishes, and light cleanup as part of building shared community for the weekend. Refer to the registration page for more information.

[20s/30s+] Night Skiing at Berkshire East

Join AMC Western MA 20s/30s for a weekly night of skiing and snowboarding at Berkshire East Mountain Resort in Charlemont! We'll meet on Wednesday evenings throughout January and February for some midweek turns under the lights. This informal, social meetup welcomes skiers and riders of all abilities — whether you're making your first runs of the season, getting in some midweek laps, or just enjoying the classic New England ski hill atmosphere with good company. Please see the registration page for more information.

[20s/30s+] Night Skiing at Berkshire East

Join AMC Western MA 20s/30s for a weekly night of skiing and snowboarding at Berkshire East Mountain Resort in Charlemont! We'll meet on Wednesday evenings throughout January and February for some midweek turns under the lights. This informal, social meetup welcomes skiers and riders of all abilities — whether you're making your first runs of the season, getting in some midweek laps, or just enjoying the classic New England ski hill atmosphere with good company. Please see the registration page for more information.

[20s/30s+] Night Skiing at Berkshire East

Join AMC Western MA 20s/30s for a weekly night of skiing and snowboarding at Berkshire East Mountain Resort in Charlemont! We'll meet on Wednesday evenings throughout January and February for some midweek turns under the lights. This informal, social meetup welcomes skiers and riders of all abilities — whether you're making your first runs of the season, getting in some midweek laps, or just enjoying the classic New England ski hill atmosphere with good company. Please see the registration page for more information.

[20s/30s+] Night Skiing at Berkshire East

Join AMC Western MA 20s/30s for a weekly night of skiing and snowboarding at Berkshire East Mountain Resort in Charlemont! We'll meet on Wednesday evenings throughout January and February for some midweek turns under the lights. This informal, social meetup welcomes skiers and riders of all abilities — whether you're making your first runs of the season, getting in some midweek laps, or just enjoying the classic New England ski hill atmosphere with good company. Please see the registration page for more information.

[20s/30s+] Night Skiing at Berkshire East

Join AMC Western MA 20s/30s for a weekly night of skiing and snowboarding at Berkshire East Mountain Resort in Charlemont! We'll meet on Wednesday evenings throughout January and February for some midweek turns under the lights. This informal, social meetup welcomes skiers and riders of all abilities — whether you're making your first runs of the season, getting in some midweek laps, or just enjoying the classic New England ski hill atmosphere with good company. Please see the registration page for more information.

[20s/30s+] Night Skiing at Berkshire East

Join AMC Western MA 20s/30s for a weekly night of skiing and snowboarding at Berkshire East Mountain Resort in Charlemont! We'll meet on Wednesday evenings throughout January and February for some midweek turns under the lights. This informal, social meetup welcomes skiers and riders of all abilities — whether you're making your first runs of the season, getting in some midweek laps, or just enjoying the classic New England ski hill atmosphere with good company. Please see the registration page for more information.

[20s/30s+] Western MA & Worcester XC Skiing at Notchview

Join the Western MA and Worcester 20s/30s for a day of cross-country skiing in the Berkshires. All abilities are welcome! We'll meet at Notchview, located in Windsor, MA, in the mid-morning and break the day up into two halves with lunch in the warm lodge in between. Morning: Open ski (for those with experience) or a lesson (for beginners or those who want to brush up on their skills). Afternoon: Break into groups to explore the many trail options (over 25 miles) at Notchview! Mileage and difficulty levels dependent on group interests, skills, and conditions. Refer to the registration page for more information.

[20s/30s+] Night Skiing at Berkshire East

Join AMC Western MA 20s/30s for a weekly night of skiing and snowboarding at Berkshire East Mountain Resort in Charlemont! We'll meet on Wednesday evenings throughout January and February for some midweek turns under the lights. This informal, social meetup welcomes skiers and riders of all abilities — whether you're making your first runs of the season, getting in some midweek laps, or just enjoying the classic New England ski hill atmosphere with good company. Please see the registration page for more information.

[20s/30s+] Western MA & Worcester XC Skiing at Notchview

Join the Western MA and Worcester 20s/30s for a day of cross-country skiing in the Berkshires. All abilities are welcome! We'll meet at Notchview, located in Windsor, MA, in the mid-morning and break the day up into two halves with lunch in the warm lodge in between. Morning: Open ski (for those with experience) or a lesson (for beginners or those who want to brush up on their skills). Afternoon: Break into groups to explore the many trail options (over 25 miles) at Notchview! Mileage and difficulty levels dependent on group interests, skills, and conditions. Refer to the registration page for more information.

AMC 150 AT from Northwest Camp to Guilder Pond

Starting at Northwest Camp near the CT/MA border, the hike heads north on the A.T. toward Sages Ravine — a stunning, moss-covered gorge filled with cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear pools. The trail ascends gradually through this lush forested area, making Sages Ravine an ideal spot for a rest before the steeper climb ahead. From there, the A.T. climbs Mt Race (2,365 ft), where hikers are rewarded with spectacular ridgeline views to the east. Sheer cliffs and open ledges offer breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding mountains and the Housatonic Valley.

AMC 150 Guilder Pond AT to Appalachian Trail Parking at Kellogg Road

Starting at Guilder Pond parking area, the trail passes by a quick view of scenic Guilder Pond and then shortly coming to a two side trails, one leading to Hemlock Shelter and the other to Glen Brook Shelter. Continuing north, the A.T. begins a gentle descent along the east slope of Mt Undine (2203') and then climbs a gradual ascent to reach the wooded summit of Mt Bushnell. The trail crosses two intermediate summits and reaches Jug End summit at the north end of the ridge, affording a spectacular view. After a gradual descent from Jug End summit, the A.T. reaches a crest of rock, the "jug's end," with steep outcrops and extensive open views to the northwest and southeast. On a clear day, Mt Greylock is clearly visible on the northern horizon.

[20s/30s+] Backpacking the Appalachian Trail

Join AMC Western MA 20s/30s for a spring weekend backpacking trip along a quiet, forested stretch of the Appalachian Trail in the Berkshires. Over two days, we'll hike nearly 19 miles through classic New England woods, with rolling ridgelines, seasonal stream crossings, and peaceful sections of remote trail.

AMC 150 Relay Ride from Washington, MA to Noble View Outdoor Center

Join us for a 27-mile mixed surface ride (~70% on road and 30% unpaved dirt/gravel roads, with roughly 2,000' of climbing) through the beautiful Berkshire hills of western MA. While the overall route trends downhill, there are short, intense uphill segments of climbing, so this activity is most suitable for riders comfortable with going uphill. Refer to the registration page for more information.

AMC 150 Westfield River Class 1 Paddle

For this leg of the AMC 150 Relay, join Deb and Dawne for a 5 or 12 mile paddle trip down the Westfield River from Russell to Westfield or West Springfield, MA. Our leg will link a celebration at AMC;s Noble View Outdoor Center the day before with a leg of the New England Trail the day after. We start with a car spot, then paddle through swiftwater currents with occasional river obstacles that require maneuvering - exact conditions will depend on river flow. The 5-mile leg ends at Whitney Field in Westfield, with 12 mile paddlers portaging around the Westfield dam (wheeled portage possible), and ending with a 200-yard portage at the Robinson State Park take-out in West Springfield. Safety boaters with whitewater experience are encouraged to join.

AMC 150 NET Section 5 Hike

For this leg of the AMC 150 Relay, we'll be hiking Section 5 of the New England Trail northbound from Rte 202 to 141 in Holyoke. This hike features varied landscapes, including hardwood forests, open ledges, and occasional steep sections that provide a good workout. We'll take breaks to enjoy the views of the farmland below and the Berkshire foothills in the distance.

AMC 150 NET Section 6 Hike

For this leg of the relay, we'll be hiking Section 6 of the New England Trail, which is one of the more spectacular sections located in the Mt Tom range! The trail heads northbound from Rte 141 in Holyoke to Rte 5 in Easthampton. This hike features varied landscapes, ridge-lines, open ledges, and occasional steep sections that provide a good workout.

AMC 150 Connecticut River Paddle, Hatfield to Northampton, MA

Join the Western MA Chapter and All Out Adventures for a 12-mile flatwater paddle on the Connecticut River from Hatfield downriver to the Oxbow in Northampton, with a shorter 6-mile option available. This scenic flatwater paddle is rated moderate because of the distance, though we will have some current to help us along. Expect to see bald eagles, geese, ducks, herons, and maybe beaver or otters. Canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards are welcome.

AMC 150 Holyoke Range Seven Sisters and Mt Norwottuck

Join us in May to celebrate 150 years of AMC with the AMC 150th Relay - a 1,500-mile journey from VA to ME. Join the celebration by participating in a relay segment, attending a local event, or sharing your AMC story. Together, we'll honor the past and shape the future of outdoor adventure. For this leg of the relay, we'll be hiking sections 7 and 8 of the New England Trail. This iconic section will traverse the Seven Sisters of the Holyoke Range and continue with Mt Norwottuck and ending at Mt Harris Rd. An alternative stopping stop can be arranged at the Notch Visitors Center prior to the hike's start.

[20s/30s+] Intro to Backpacking Workshop

Curious about backpacking, but not sure where to start? Join us for a relaxed, hands-on introduction at AMC's Noble View Outdoor Center. This weekend workshop blends practical skills with friendly, low-key instruction to help you gain confidence and comfort in the backcountry. Refer to the registration page for more information.

NET Committee Chair

Are you passionate about the outdoors, trail stewardship, and making a tangible impact in your community? The AMC Western MA Chapter is looking for a dedicated and enthusiastic volunteer to serve as the NET Committee Chair – a leadership role that helps shape the future of the New England National Scenic Trail (NET). As Chair, you'll work closely with a passionate team of volunteers and AMC staff to ensure the NET remains a safe, enjoyable, and well-maintained trail for all who explore it. You'll guide efforts that uphold AMC's mission and the NET's high standards – from trail blazing and signage to maintaining clear, sustainable trail corridors. Refer to the registration page for more information.

Chapter Vice Chair

Are you passionate about the outdoors and ready to give back? Help Lead the AMC Western MA Chapter as Vice Chair! The AMC Western MA Chapter is looking for a Volunteer Vice Chair to help lead our all-volunteer Executive Committee! This is a 1-year term as Vice Chair, with the expectation of stepping into the Chapter Chair role afterward. It's a unique chance to: learn about AMC leadership, support outdoor programs in western MA, and make a real impact in the outdoor community. You'll collaborate with committees, help with events and recruitment, and represent the Chapter in the broader AMC network.

Family Programs Chair

Do you love working with families and the outdoors? The AMC Western MA Chapter is looking for a Volunteer Family Chair to join our Executive Committee! We're an active, welcoming chapter, and this role is a great opportunity to support family-friendly outdoor adventures across western MA. As Family Programs Chair, you'll: attend monthly Executive Committee meetings, manage the Family Program's committee budget, contribute to annual planning and reports, and encourage and support leaders in offering family-focused outings.