Upcoming Chapter Activities

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Ugly Sweater Winter Walk from the Westfield Whip Factory

Join us for a nearly-winter ugly wweater walk by the Westfield River with Professor Nicholas Aieta, Department Chair of History and Philosophy at Westfield State University, as we explore some of the unique history along the Westfield River Esplanade. After the walk, participants are welcome for a rare opportunity to visit a portion of the Westfield Whip Factory, built in 1886, and the last surviving whip factory in Westfield that is still producing whips. Carol Martin, founder of Westfield Historic Industries Preservation Project (WHIPP), now a part of Westfield Museum Inc., will be on hand to answer questions afterwards. Cocoa, coffee, and cookies will be available. The Esplanade is assessable, but the Museum does not have assessable access at this time.

Hike at Bear Hole, West Springfield

Hike on Chumbawumba Trail and Bear Hole Reservoir Loop. Visit the site of the Bear Hole Resort (which existed from 1890 to 1906) and bear cage. Length of hike 6 miles. Elevation gain 600 feet. Trails are generally smooth surface with exceptions where there is loose gravel and rocky grades.

Gym Climbing at CRG Hadley

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

Solstice Hike on the NET

Come celebrate the shortest day of the year with a three-mile solstice hike on the New England Trail to watch the sunset over Westfield, followed by a social gathering at a local restaurant nearby. The hike will start on the NET Section 5 in Holyoke, continuing on another trail then meeting back up with the NET for the last mile to finish the loop. At about 2.5 miles, we will be on a ridge where we can view the sunset over Westfield and Hampton Ponds and make a solstice toast. On the other side of the ridge there is a beautiful view to the north and east, where Mt Monadnock is visible on a clear day. After the sunset, we will hike the last half mile to the 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!

Mt Norwottuck

Join us for a spirited holiday hike to Mt Norwottuck and Rattlesnake Knob. Approximately 5 miles with 1,036 feet of elevation. Varied terrain with lots of ups and downs hiking through woods, climbing a few rock scrambles, and passing through the infamous horse caves. We will follow the New England Trail and North Side Trail making a loop so no car spotting. Rewarding views at the summits.

Best of Mt. Tom Reservation!

Want to see some of the hidden gem trails of Mt Tom Reservation beyond the ridgeline while getting a sense of the varied terrain and history of Mt Tom? This hike is for you! We will hike through various ruins and off the beaten path trails while observing Mt Tom flora and potential fauna along the way.

Hike Leaders Activity & Social

Join us on January 1^st for a flexible winter hike in the North Amherst area, including sections of the Robert Frost Trail. This will be a true "choose-your-own-adventure" winter outing. Depending on conditions, we may hike, snowshoe, or even cross-country ski. Expect anywhere from 2–6 miles of winter travel through some of the area's most beautiful woods and fields.

[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+] Climbing Social at CRG Hadley and Quarters

Please join the Mountaineering Committee for an evening of socializing and climbing! This is an event for climbers in their 20s and 30s who are looking to get into rock climbing or meet new climbing partners. We will meet at 6pm at Central Rock Gym in Hadley and 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!

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.

Leader Ice Climbing Skills Refresher

This is a leader-only, on-ice skills refresher for AMC Western MA Mountaineering Committee leaders, co-leaders, and approved leader candidates. The focus of the day is sharpening technical skills, reinforcing AMC best practices, and aligning on risk management standards before the heart of ice season. Exact location will be chosen based on conditions (likely a roadside crag with reliable ice). Refer to the registration page for more information.

[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.

Wed Night Ice Climbing in the Lights

Come join us for some fun in the evening at the Keene Ice Box. This is ice at night! Participants must have prior knowledge of top rope climbing skills (i.e. how to tie in with a figure 8, how to belay and lower a top rope climbing partner).

[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.

NH Wapack Trail: Barrett Mountain to Pratt Mountain

Hike approx 8.5-9 miles on the Wapack Trail just over the MA NH border including Barrett Mountain, New Ipswich Mountain, Pratt Mountain and other view points which can be especially scenic in winter. Overall difficulty rating is vigorous due to elevation gain, winter conditions and endurance needed to be out hiking 5-6 hours. Terrain is mixed moderate - steep.

Pittsfield State Forest

This is a moderate climb along the beautiful Lulu Brook to pristine Berry Pond (2,150' elevation), the highest natural body of water in MA offering stunning views.

Gym Climbing - Central Rock Gym Hadley

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

[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, Mass Pike Bridges Area

We have been supporting the Mass DOT planning for the replacement of the A.T. bridges over the Mass Pike east and west bound lanes for 2 years now with periodic wildlife transects in the area and trailcam monitoring. On this occasion we'll be gathering additional information on what wildlife are using the area both north and south of the Mass Pike in the A.T. bridges area and how they are using the area.

[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.

Wed Night Ice Climbing in the Lights

Come join us for some fun in the evening at the Keene Ice Box. This is ice at night! Participants must have prior knowledge of top rope climbing skills (i.e. how to tie in with a figure 8, how to belay and lower a top rope climbing partner).

Wildlife Transect, Kay Wood Shelter Area

Winter transect to check on what the wild residents of our Appalachian Lands are up to. We will be exploring the Kay Wood Shelter area in Dalton. We've not done a transect in this area in quite some time and will be looking in a different area than on our last visit so 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.

Wed Night Ice Climbing in the Lights

Come join us for some fun in the evening at the Keene Ice Box. This is ice at night! Participants must have prior knowledge of top rope climbing skills (i.e. how to tie in with a figure 8, how to belay and lower a top rope climbing partner).

[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, Tyringham Cobble / Hale Fields Area

Winter transect to check on what the wild residents of our Appalachian Lands are up to. We will be exploring the Tyringham Cobble area and adjacent Hale Fields area. This is a bit bigger area than we usually cover so a bit longer day than our usual.

Gym Climbing - Central Rock Gym Hadley

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

[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.

Wed Night Ice Climbing in the Lights

Come join us for some fun in the evening at the Keene Ice Box. This is ice at night! Participants must have prior knowledge of top rope climbing skills (i.e. how to tie in with a figure 8, how to belay and lower a top rope climbing partner).

[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, AT Lands South of Goose Pond Rd

Late winter transect to check on what the wild residents of our Appalachian Lands are up to. We will be exploring the A.T. lands south of Goose Pond Rd. This is an area we've not visited previously so who knows what we'll find.

[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.

Wed Night Ice Climbing in the Lights

Come join us for some fun in the evening at the Keene Ice Box. This is ice at night! Participants must have prior knowledge of top rope climbing skills (i.e. how to tie in with a figure 8, how to belay and lower a top rope climbing partner).

Wildlife Transect, A.T. Lands in Beartown State Forest

Late winter / early spring transect to check on what the wild residents of our Appalachian Trail lands are up to. While we will be covering a portion of Beartown SF that we've covered before, most of our time will be in the area east of the National Park Service lands recently added to Beartown SF. This area has a variety of habitats and is relatively remote so we are apt to see some cool stuff!

Gym Climbing - Central Rock Gym Hadley

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

AMC Western MA Winter Book Club

Looking for a new way to have fun and make connections with other outdoor enthusiasts during the cold and dark winter months? AMC's Western MA Chapter invites you to join a new Winter Book Club series running January through March 2026. We begin with Heartwood by Amity Gaige, a suspenseful novel about a 42-year-old hiker who goes missing on the Appalachian Trail. The story weaves together three narratives: the missing woman's struggle for survival, a Maine State Game Warden's ground search, and a birdwatcher's investigation, exploring themes of survival and human connection that will resonate deeply with the AMC community. The group will choose the next two books at the first meeting.

Wed Night Ice Climbing in the Lights

Come join us for some fun in the evening at the Keene Ice Box. This is ice at night! Participants must have prior knowledge of top rope climbing skills (i.e. how to tie in with a figure 8, how to belay and lower a top rope climbing partner).

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.

Noble View - Past, Present, and Future

Come celebrate the rich history, vibrant present, and exciting future of Noble View and our Western MA chapter - we hope to see you there! To celebrate the past, we will feature a historical display along with guided hikes to remnants of earlier activity on the property, including the old ice pond and the charcoal kiln. The present will be celebrated with a lively potluck and BBQ at 3:00 PM. The chapter will provide the BBQ, and guests are invited to bring salads and desserts to round out the meal. Following the potluck, we will recognize the chapter and present awards to some very deserving members. Refer to the registration page for more information.

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 4 Hike

For this leg of the AMC 150 Relay, we'll be hiking Section 4 of the New England Trail northbound from Old Holyoke Rd in Westfield (at the gate) to Rte 202 in Holyoke (park facing southbound). This hike features a mix of ups and downs with occasional steep sections. There are some beautiful scenic spots along the ridge and a lovely vernal pool as we trek on the border of Bear Hole in West Springfield for much of the hike.

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 AMC 150 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.

AMC 150 Farley Ledges Rock Climbing Day

Join us at Farley Ledges for an evening of cragging in celebration of AMC's 150^th Anniversary Outdoor Relay! We'll climb classic Western MA rock, tell tall tales that get 5.10 every time they're retold, and add our vertical contribution to the AMC 150 relay route. Newer outdoor climbers (with some gym or outdoor experience) and seasoned rope guns are all welcome. Refer to the registration page for more information.

[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.

Chapter Conservation Chair

Are you passionate about conservation issues and the outdoors? Come help support the AMC and Western MA Chapter's conservation mission and goals as chair of the Conservation Committee. The Conservation Chair is a member of the Western MA Executive Committee, responsible for organizing and directing the Conservation Committee, coordinating conservation events, managing related budgets and supplies, and serving as the liaison to the Chapter Executive Committee.