Upcoming Chapter Activities

Sort form

  Title   Activity   Difficulty   Date    

Annual Family Ice Skating Fun at Amelia Park

Join Family Programs for another great public skate session at Amelia Park over February break. The Chapter will cover skating and rentals for children and teens under 18 at the open skate from 11:30 AM-12:30 PM. We will be meeting people at the desk starting at 11:00 to begin the check-in process. Parents must attend with their children and may either pay for skating ($7) and rentals ($5) or hang out in our comfortable party room courteously donated at no charge for our event by management. Big Y is sponsoring pizza and snacks for participants and families as part of their community building initiative.

Snowshoe at Knightville Dam

Enjoy a scenic 4.5-mile snowshoe at Knightville Dam, following well-broken snowmobile and woodland trails with modest rolling ups and downs. Route options allow us to shorten or extend the outing, and if snow is light we'll switch to a hike with spikes with an option to explore the former Black Panther ski area. Come ready for winter fun and fresh Berkshire air! The hike option adds about a mile and 800 ft. of elevation gain.

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+] Speed-Friending Social

Valentine's Day is better with friends. Join other folks in their 20s/30s for PALentine's Day with the AMC!

Looking to expand your circle within the AMC 20s/30s community? This low-key social event is designed to help folks meet new people and build friendships in a relaxed, structured way. This will be a speed dating-style social at Powder Hollow Brewery in South Deerfield. ALL are welcome. Chelsea will facilitate brief conversations as folks move around the room, encouraging us to get to know our Chapter better and HAVE FUN together!

[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.

Western MA Winter Book Club

The AMC Western MA Chapter is excited to announce our upcoming virtual book discussion featuring "Grandma Gatewood's Walk", authored by Ben Montgomery. This compelling narrative recounts the incredible journey of Emma "Grandma" Gatewood, the first woman to solo hike the Appalachian Trail in 1955. The book is available in print and digitally at local libraries and bookstores.

In a unique spin on the typical book discussion, the event will feature a special guest: Actress Anne Van Curen from TN. Anne will transform into Emma Gatewood and present a captivating monologue that brings to life Gatewood's inspiring story, drawing from accounts of her surviving family members, newspaper articles, and her own diaries and journals. Refer to the registration page for more information.

Savoy Mt. State Forest, Tannery Falls

We will hike the beautiful wooded Tannery trail for 2.4 miles where we will reach the icy gorge and the steep down hill for 0.3 miles to the two magnificent frozen waterfalls (if it's cold enough). Tannery Falls is an 80-foot series of tall plunges and curving horsetails. Parker Brook Falls lies only feet from Tannery Falls, and this multi-section plunge waterfall drops down through an angular gorge. It's an amazing site to see especially in the winter. We will backtrack uphill through the gorge and pick up the Tanner Road trail (about 2 miles) back to our cars.

[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).

Mt Toby Winter Hike & Social

Come mark the end of February with a winter hike at Mt Toby State Forest! This is a 5-mile loop hike through beautiful woodlands, past waterfalls, and up to a spectacular viewpoint from the Mt Toby fire tower. The hike includes approximately 850 feet of elevation gain to the Mt Toby summit (1,269 ft), with an optional climb up the fire tower for expansive views. Most of the ascent is moderate, though there is one short but steep section (about 1/3 mile) just before the summit. The descent is gradual and moderate, with a side loop on the Lower Falls Trail to visit Roaring Brook Falls and explore Roaring Brook Falls and some interesting rock formations.

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 XC Skiing at Notchview

Join the Western MA 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+] 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 6 PM at Central Rock Gym in Hadley, climb for a few hours, 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!

[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.

Cross Country Ski Outing and Social

Come join us for a day of socializing and cross-country skiing at Notchview in Windsor, MA. We will meet at the Budd Visitor Center at Notchview at 10:30 to make introductions, talk about the day, and purchase tickets/rentals. We will ski as a group for the first hour following the Circuit Trail, a beginner loop, then go into the lodge for a lunch/snack break, socializing, and a complimentary hot beverage. In the afternoon, you will be free to explore more trails on your own. The fee for an adult day pass is $19.00 and rentals are $23.

Family Fun Climbing Day at Central Rock Gym

Join us for a fun afternoon of climbing and pizza party with the AMC Western MA Family Programs and Mountaineering Committees. Our special event is for children ages 5 and up. Cost is $10 per participant, paid to the leaders at the event (cash or Venmo only), and includes climbing gear. Participants can use the bouldering wall, the self-belay wall, and main climbing walls with certified AMC belayers. Climbing will be between 1 and 1 1/2 hours, depending on total staffing available. After the event, we will have pizza and drinks for all family members to celebrate.

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.

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+] Wessels Series: Elders’ Grove

Join other folks in their 20s and 30s on a hike to Elders' Grove in Mohawk Trail State Forest, learning about basal fire scars, stump sprouts, spring ephemerals, and exceptionally tall trees along the way. Starting at the Zoar Picnic Area, we will take the Elders' Grove Trail along the river at a slow pace, allowing for education and discussion about the interesting ecological aspects of this hike.

[20s/30s+] Wessels Series: Wantastiquet Mountain

Join other folks in their 20s and 30s on a hike along Summit Trail at Wantastiquet Mountain, learning about basal fire scars, stump sprouts, and glacial and flooding impacts along the way. Starting at the Wantastiquet Monadnock Trailhead, we will take the Summit Trail, at a slow pace, allowing for education and discussion about the interesting ecological aspects of this hike. We will then take an old carriage road along the Connecticut River to a viewpoint looking south along the river.

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.

Noble View Outdoor Celebration

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 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 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 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.

[LGBTQ+] River Trip

Join LGBTQ+ people to enjoy the Deerfield River (lower Fife Brook/Shunpike/Zoar Take out section, class 1-2) for a late afternoon Friday river trip. We're calling this TGIF! — Thank Gays It's Fife! Float down the river in your preferred vessel: kayak, standup paddleboard, inner tube, canoe, inflatable rainbow unicorn, or whatever your heart desires. No prior training required!

AMC 150 NET Hike Wendell to Farley

Join us on this moderate 9.3 mile hike of Section 15 of the New England Trail (NET). We will start from Lake Wyola at the Wendell Depot Rd parking lot and hike to Farley Village at Rte 2. The trail gradually descends into Wendell State Forest, passing Ruggles Pond, Lyons Brook, and Mormon Hollow Brook, on its way to Farley. Much of this section lies in Wendell State Forest on the south slope of the Millers River Valley.

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+] Wessels Series: William Cullen Bryant Homestead

Join other folks in their 20s and 30s on a hike in the William Cullen Bryant Homestead Forest, learning about old growth forests, signs of previous agriculture, and pine weevils along the way. Starting at the parking lot, we will take the Rivulet, Pine Loop, and Sugarbush Trails at a slow pace, allowing for education and discussion about the interesting ecological aspects of this hike.

National Trails Day Family Hike on the NET

Join us for our second annual New England National Trail family hike at Mount Tom. We will be joined by local nature leaders in a stroll up to Goat Peak via the NET with an activity or two up our sleeves. The 1/2 mile trail to the viewpoint is rugged and has a steady incline, which makes the hike suitable for kids 5 and up. On the way down, we will take the old road back to the pavilion area. If we have enough interest, a second, longer hike up to the Eyrie house ruins may be added (a bit over 1 mile one way-same road back down.)

[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.

[LGBTQ+] Pride Day on the River Dryway Run

Join LGBTQ+ people and enjoy the Dryway section (class 3-4) of the Deerfield River in northwest Massachusetts. This is not a step up trip. Please have a solid roll in moving water, successful experiences on New England class 4 rivers and/or the Dryway. Contact the trip leader to discuss if you're unsure. Bring your own gear.

[LGBTQ+] River Trip

Join LGBTQ+ people to enjoy the Deerfield River (lower Fife Brook/Shunpike/Zoar Take out section, class 1-2) for a late afternoon Friday river trip. We're calling this TGIF! — Thank Gays It's Fife! Float down the river in your preferred vessel: kayak, standup paddleboard, inner tube, canoe, inflatable rainbow unicorn, or whatever your heart desires. No prior training required!

[LGBTQ+] Intermediate Whitewater Kayaking Weekend

Join other LGBTQ+ kayakers for this 2-day skills clinic on the Deerfield River in MA to celebrate Pride Month. This clinic is for people who already have experience whitewater kayaking at any level, from beginner through advanced. Refer to the registration page for eligibility criteria and more information.

[20s/30s+] Wessels Series: Rhododendron State Park

Join other folks in their 20s and 30s on a hike in Rhododendron State Park, learning about rhododendrons, black gum trees, the Great New England Hurricane of 1938, and many signs of previous agriculture along the way. Starting at the parking lot, we will take a meandering route amongst the Rhododendron State Park at a slow pace, allowing for education and discussion about the interesting ecological aspects of this hike. We will then hike at a conversational pace to Little Monadnock Mountain before returning to the trailhead.

[LGBTQ+] River Trip

Join LGBTQ+ people to enjoy the Deerfield River (lower Fife Brook/Shunpike/Zoar Take out section, class 1-2) for a late afternoon Friday river trip. We're calling this TGIF! — Thank Gays It's Fife! Float down the river in your preferred vessel: kayak, standup paddleboard, inner tube, canoe, inflatable rainbow unicorn, or whatever your heart desires. No prior training required!

[20s/30s+] Wessels Series: Bartholomew’s Cobble

Join other folks in their 20s and 30s on a hike at Bartholomew's Cobble, a National Natural Landmark, learning about ferns, the ecological diversity that happens when multiple soil types are present, unique insects, a very large cottonwood tree, and floodplain forests along the way. Starting at the parking lot, we will take a route initially along the Housatonic River and the floodplain forest at a slow pace, allowing for education and discussion about the interesting ecological aspects of this hike. We will then ascend a moderate incline to the scenic vista at the top of Hurlburt’s Hill. After taking in the view and breaking for water and conversation, we will return to the trailhead via Tractor Path.

[LGBTQ+] River Trip

Join LGBTQ+ people to enjoy the Deerfield River (lower Fife Brook/Shunpike/Zoar Take out section, class 1-2) for a late afternoon Friday river trip. We're calling this TGIF! — Thank Gays It's Fife! Float down the river in your preferred vessel: kayak, standup paddleboard, inner tube, canoe, inflatable rainbow unicorn, or whatever your heart desires. No prior training required!

[LGBTQ+] River Trip

Join LGBTQ+ people to enjoy the Deerfield River (lower Fife Brook/Shunpike/Zoar Take out section, class 1-2) for a late afternoon Friday river trip. We're calling this TGIF! — Thank Gays It's Fife! Float down the river in your preferred vessel: kayak, standup paddleboard, inner tube, canoe, inflatable rainbow unicorn, or whatever your heart desires. No prior training required!

[20s/30s+] Wessels Series: Monument Mountain

Join other folks in their 20s and 30s on a hike to Monument Mountain, learning about the chestnut blight, pillows and cradles, old growth trees, a historic cave, pine weevils, and signs of past agriculture along the way. Starting at the Monument Mountain Trailhead on Stockbridge Rd, we will take the Hickey Trail at a slow pace, allowing for education and discussion about the interesting ecological aspects of this hike. We will then take Peeskawso Peak Trail along the ridge, stopping at the peak for water, snacks, and views. We will continue south and join up with the Mohican-Monument Trail to return to our cars, learning more ecology on the way.

[20s/30s+] Wessels Series: Vernon Town Forest

Join other folks in their 20s and 30s on a hike to the black gum swamps in the Vernon Town Forest, learning about the chestnut blight, the great New England hurricane of 1938, and some very old black gum trees along the way. Starting at the Basin Rd Trailhead, we will take a meandering and rolling route through the Vernon Town Forest. We will visit several old growth black gum swamps throughout our hike.

[20s/30s+] Wessels Series: Pisgah State Forest

Join other folks in their 20s and 30s on a hike in Pisgah State Forest, learning about grafting, the great New England hurricane of 1938, old growth forest, and pillows and cradles along the way. Starting at the Kilburn Pond Trailhead, we will take a route up to Mount Pisgah, before looping along the Pisgah Ridge and Town Forest Trail.

AMC 150th Anniversary Challenge

Are you up for a challenge? The Western MA Chapter wants YOU! To help celebrate AMC's 150th anniversary in 2026, we challenge you to participate in 150 miles "worth" of activities between January 1 and October 31, 2026. Those who meet the challenge will receive a special commemorative patch and a shout-out at our Fall Social and Annual Meeting.

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.