[01‑Apr‑2026] Spring is in full swing now and we are feeling it! We've had some incredibly warm days and a few chilly ones sprinkled in. We're beginning to see some daffodils in the gardens and spring ephemerals peaking up through the leaves, and more folks are getting out into the woods, and on the roads and waterways.
Happy April!
Right now, the AMC Western MA Chapter has 86 activities posted on the AMC Outdoors Connector, including hikes (of course), bicycling, paddling, trail maintenance, conservation, climbing, training opportunities, and social activities — something for everyone!
You can browse for activities to join in several ways:
The Chapter Activities mosaic on our website. You can search by Committee, and below the mosaic, activities are listed in chronological order. Activities are manually added on a regular basis with links to the Outdoors Connector.
The Outdoors Connector on the AMC website. This is the most up-to-date way of searching for activities and you can search for activities in any Chapter.
The Activities Calendar on our website. This is the best way to search by date and is automatically updated every six hours.
Choose your own adventure and come join the fun!
Backpacking Workshop
April 11, 2026
[01‑Apr‑2026] Thinking about doing some backpacking for the first time? The AMC Worcester Chapter is offering an introductory backpacking workshop on Saturday, April 11, 2026 from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Backpacking Workshop
This workshop will cover everything you need to know for fun and safe backpacking: personal and group gear, tent site selection and set-up, food and nutrition, water treatment, trip planning, and Leave No Trace principles. Presentations will be given by experienced backpackers, and leaders will demo various gear options.
In the days following the workshop, attendees will have the option to attend a gear shakedown (posted separately), where our leaders will give you feedback on your gear, answer your gear questions, and take you on a one-day simulated backpacking trip. In addition, the Worcester Chapter will post increasingly challenging "Inner Backpacker" trips throughout the spring, summer, and fall, with registration preference given to attendees of this workshop. REGISTER »
NET Critical Maintenance Training
May 2, 2026
[31‑Mar‑2026] AMC staff are offering a free critical maintenance training and workday on the New England Trail (NET) for new and seasoned volunteers alike. We encourage new volunteers, anyone interested in learning more about trail management, and those will several years of trail work experience to attend. It is recommended that volunteers receive this training every 3-5 years, both as a refresher and as an opportunity to offer guidance to new volunteers.
NET Critical Maintenance Training
We will provide an overview of proper tools for critical maintenance. From the trailhead, we will venture Southbound on the trail towards Mt Tom. Over a 3â5 mile hike, we will go over critical maintenance, including corridor cleaning, drainage, and water bar management, brushing, and work reporting.
There will be ample opportunity for seasoned volunteers to showcase their experience and support for those who are new to trail work. We will also provide education on NET history, ongoing stewardship efforts, and how to continue your involvement in supporting this community-driven trail system. REGISTER »
Guardians of Nature
[29‑Mar‑2026] This week is the best time to catch the spring raptor migration. Goat Peak Tower at Mt Tom and the Skinner Moutain Summit House are two great viewing spots. Best times: 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM. GUARDIANS OF NATURE »
[29‑Mar‑2026] The Appalachian National Scenic Trail (A.T.) is one of the world's most remarkable long-distance footpaths — stretching nearly 2,200 miles across 14 states. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) and the National Park Service (NPS) teamed up to calculate the first annual visitation data for the A.T. in 2025. ATC »
[29‑Mar‑2026] Spring has arrived — and with it comes sunshine, a little extra bounce in our step, and that irresistible urge to head outside and play. This year feels especially joyful as we celebrate Appalachian Mountain Club's 150th Anniversary — a perfect excuse to get out on the trails, rivers, and roads and share the adventure together. VIEW ARTICLE »
News and Events From Your AMC Western MA Chapter
Spring has arrived — and with it comes sunshine, a little extra bounce in our step, and that irresistible urge to head outside and play. This year feels especially joyful as we celebrate Appalachian Mountain Clubâs 150th Anniversary — a perfect excuse to get out on the trails, rivers, and roads and share the adventure together.
And a special, warm welcome to our newest members joining us this month. We're so glad you're here! Whether you're brand new or a longtime participant, we hope you'll jump in, try something new, and make some great outdoor memories with us.
So grab your boots, bikes, or paddles — spring is calling, and the fun is just getting started!
Kathy Martin, Western MA Chapter Chair
AMC 150 Relay
Now is the time to register
The AMC 150 Relay has finally begun. On Saturday, March 14th, cyclists began the epic relay from VA to ME to celebrate 150 years of outdoor adventure and you can follow the progress on this interactive map. Every leader is carrying a Garmin In-Reach which is tracking each segment of the relay.
The relay will reach western MA starting on May 17th, winding through the Appalachian Trail, the New England Scenic Trail, and along rivers and roadways, as it makes its way to Boston then north into NH. Now is the time to register to join us as we hike, bike, climb, and paddle our way through western MA bearing the AMC 150 banner. You don't want to miss out on this epic adventure!
Browse for AMC 150 Chapter events at AMC Western MA: Chapter Activities or on the AMC Outdoors Connector for an AMC 150 activity in any region.
AMC 150 Western MA Celebration: Noble View — Past, Present, and Future
A day of history, trails, and community
Mark your calendars for May 23, 2026 and come celebrate AMC's 150th Anniversary at Noble View Outdoor Center with a day of history, trails, and community. Enjoy guided walks, trail work, demonstrations, hikes, family activities, and a free BBQ as we explore Noble View's past, present, and future.
To honor the past, we will feature a historical display along with guided walks to remnants of earlier activity on the property. These walks offer a glimpse into the history of the land long before it became the beloved outdoor destination it is today.
We celebrate the present by welcoming our Western MA Bicycling group as they complete their ride from Washington, MA. We'll greet them with a delicious free BBQ, share time together as a community, and recognize the AMC volunteer award recipients.
The future of Noble View lies in its trails. Noble View serves as an AMC trails facility, where volunteers learn how to build and maintain trails across the region.
Visit the following links for details and registration information:
Afternoon Celebration |
AMC 150 Bike Ride |
Morning Trail Work
Spring is Here — Time to Get Out the Kayaks, Canoes and Bikes
Register now for exciting activities!
Now that the days are getting longer and warmer, the Paddling and Bicycling Committees have begun scheduling spring activities. Here are some of the fun events you can join:
AMC 150 Anniversary Relay Ride from Washington to the Noble View Outdoor Center ending with a BBQ, award ceremony, and celebration of AMC's 150th anniversary (May 23).
Introduction to Canoeing in Tilton, NH offered by the NH Chapter (April 25). The Canoe School, taught by volunteers, provides flat water and moving water instruction. Prior experience is not necessary.
Beginner Canoe Camping Weekend offered by the NH Chapter (June 5-7). This weekend is designed as a follow up to the Canoe Camping Workshop given in January 2026.
iNaturalist Bingo
[28‑Mar‑2026] Want to help AMC track the impacts of climate change? Download iNaturalist and start observing. AMC OUTDOOR RESOURCES »
[26‑Mar‑2026] Mud season is here and we suggest you check out these helpful tips for navigating slippery and wet trails. Knowing where to walk, choosing footwear, and considering alternate trails will all help preserve the fragile trail systems and prevent injury. AMC OUTDOOR RESOURCES »
[25‑Mar‑2026] We have a public Facebook group where anyone who joins can post photos of their outdoor adventures. Got a nice waterfall or sunset photo, or have you discovered a new place to be outdoors? Share it with us! Be sure to read the rules of the group — relevant content only and always be respectful.
Share Your Photos With Us!
Save the Date
[21‑Mar‑2026] The AMC Western MA Chapter's Fifth Annual Connecting Women, Connecting with Nature retreat will be held on Friday, Saturday and September 18-20, 2026 at the Horace A. Moses Scout Reservation. It is on the pond and just one road down from the AMC Noble View Outdoor Center in Russell, MA.
Save the Date
This is a women-only event that uses an inclusive definition of women. We respectfully welcome all women including non-binary, gender non-conforming, transwomen and individuals who identify as a woman as the best expression of themselves.
The cottages at Noble View are no longer available for use or lodging, so we have moved the fun to the Scout camp giving folks the option to stay in a bunkhouse or camp in their own tent. You are welcome to settle in on Friday night to catch up with old friends, or make new friends over a light dinner.
Saturday will be packed with a variety of traditional and non-traditional outdoor activities, 3 delicious meals and camaraderie. The fun and food will continue until the early afternoon on Sunday.
If you have joined us before, you know the transformational calm that comes about from a weekend well spent with good women. Stay tuned for details!
Happy First Day of Spring!
[20‑Mar‑2026] The vernal equinox brings us equal amounts of light and darkness, which, along with daylight savings time, is giving us so much more daylight for being outdoors... yay!
Happy First Day of Spring!
And this means more weekday after work events, and of course, more cycling and paddling activities. The Bicycling and Paddling Committees have been busy planning for all the upcoming spring and summer activities, so please check them out on the Chapter Activities, as well as all of the other activities like climbing and hiking.
Join AMC!
[18‑Mar‑2026] Starting today, new members will receive a one-year subscription to Outside Magazine when they join AMC between March 18 and April 19 — a $36 value! JOIN NOW »
[15‑Mar‑2026] This month we bring you to the Noble View Outdoor Center in Russell, MA. Elevated at nearly 1,100 feet above the Connecticut River Valley, AMC's Noble View Outdoor Center in Russell, MA provides spectacular views of the Connecticut River Valley and many opportunities for year-round recreation.
Noble View Outdoor Center
Noble View's 12 miles of well-marked trails wind through woodlands and abandoned farm fields, past brooks, waterfalls, stone walls, and cellar holes, and across a variety of habitats including a rare, old growth hemlock stand.
Acquired by the AMC Berkshire (now Western MA) Chapter during the Great Depression of the 1930s, Noble View afforded members an opportunity for fellowship in the out-of-doors at a minimum of expense. It was not only possible, but common practice, to go to Noble View using public transportation to Westfield and then hiking the remaining miles.
Today, Noble View is the home of the Southern New England Trail Crew, offers group tent sites, and hosts many of the special events offered by the Western MA Chapter. It is open to the public year-round for hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. MORE PHOTOS »
Join the Celebration!
Weekend Feature
[14‑Mar‑2026] AMC's 150th Anniversary Relay begins today, March 14! Over 150 days, more than 200 volunteer-led hikes, paddles, bike rides, and celebrations will connect communities across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, making our way from Virginia to Maine. LEARN MORE »
[14‑Mar‑2026] Mark your calendars for this awesome event! It's free and open to all. Seeing these majestic birds of prey up close is an unforgettable experience and Tom shares a lot of interesting information about them.
Birds of Prey With Tom Ricardi
AMC 150 Relay
[12‑Mar‑2026] Come join the Western MA Chapter as we hike, ride, climb, and paddle our way through western MA in this epic relay! All of the AMC 150 Relay activities in western MA are on our website. Choose your adventure today! AMC 150 »
[11‑Mar‑2026] Twelve happy hikers joined hike leader Trish Johnson for a spectacular hike to Tannery Falls in Savoy yesterday, accompanied by gorgeous spring weather. Thanks to Trish for planning and leading it, and to all those who came out to enjoy it! MORE PHOTOS »
[10‑Mar‑2026] In honor of Women's History Month, we would like to share the story of another trail-blazing woman, Peace Pilgrim, the first woman to thru hike the Appalachian Trail. FACEBOOK »
[07‑Mar‑2026] In honor of Women's History Month, we'd like to share the remarkable story of Emma "Grandma" Gatewood, who was the first woman to thru hike the Appalachian Trail alone in one season. VIEW ARTICLE »
Emma "Grandma" Gatewood
In honor of Women's History Month, we'd like to share the remarkable story of Emma "Grandma" Gatewood, who was the first woman to thru hike the Appalachian Trail alone in one season. This is remarkable for many reasons — she was 67 years old at the time, wore Keds sneakers, and was carrying a simple sack with some food, a blanket, extra clothing, and a few other basic supplies. She was a survivor of domestic violence at the hands of her husband.
After reading an article in National Geographic about Earl Shaffer, the first man to thru hike the A.T., she thought that if he could do it, she could too. After one failed attempt, she successfully climbed Mt Katahdin in September 1955 after hiking the entire trail from GA to ME.
But her story doesn't end here — she hiked the A.T. two more times, once as a thru hike and again in sections. And she didn't stop there — she also hiked the 2,000 mile-long Oregon Trail at the age of 71 and became a champion for developing and maintaining trails after her hiking days were over. She was truly a remarkable woman!
You can read more details of Emma's amazing story by clicking the link to this article on the AMC website and in the inspiring book "Grandma Gatewood's Walk: The Inspiring Story of the Woman Who Saved the Appalachian Trail" by Ben Montgomery, Emma's great-great-grandnephew.
It’s Mud Season
[05‑Mar‑2026] Spring is one of the most sensitive times on the trail. As snow melts and rain saturates the ground, soils become soft and vulnerable. What might feel like a small step around a puddle can slowly widen trails, loosen soil, and send sediment into nearby streams. The good news? A few simple choices make a big difference. LEAVE NO TRACE »
[05‑Mar‑2026] Skunk cabbage is one of the first plants to make an appearance as the snow melts. Why is that? Thermogenesis — the metabolic process of creating heat by burning calories. Turns out, skunk cabbage is one of the only plants that can do that, and they are plentiful in western MA. LEARN MORE »
[04‑Mar‑2026] A lively group of 8 spiked with leader Kim Carlino at Mt Tom yesterday. Starting at the north trailhead in Easthampton, they hiked a beautiful 5-mile loop on the New England National Scenic Trail to two viewpoints, Goat Peak and Dry Knoll. Mother Nature showered them with lovely snowflakes for the last 45 minutes of the hike. Elbert celebrated his 83rd birthday yesterday so everyone sang happy birthday to him. Hiking is ageless! MORE PHOTOS »
[03‑Mar‑2026] Ten folks took part in a Natural Resources transect of A.T. lands north of Goose Pond Rd this past Saturday. Photo by Janice Tassinari.
Winter Transect
JANICE TASSINARI
There were some interesting finds, including a mostly eaten up porcupine carcass. The snow was quite deep and soft — snowshoes were a must!
Search for "Conservation" in AMC's Outdoors Connector or visit the Chapter's activities page for more fun like this. MORE PHOTOS »
AMC is Hiring
[02‑Mar‑2026] Great seasonal work opportunity for folks who love the outdoors! FACEBOOK »
[01‑Mar‑2026] There's something about this last stretch of February — those days when the snow is still hanging on in the woods, but the light is staying just a little longer each evening. We're standing on the edge of the seasons. Winter isn't quite done with us, but spring is whispering that it's on the way. VIEW ARTICLE »
February Updates and Activities in Western MA
There's something about this last stretch of February — those days when the snow is still hanging on in the woods, but the light is staying just a little longer each evening. We're standing on the edge of the seasons. Winter isn't quite done with us, but spring is whispering that it's on the way.
Even the calendar seems to hint at that turning. Tucked into this week is National Strawberry Day — which feels slightly ambitious in New England in February, unless you're counting the ones in your freezer or on top of a very determined pancake.
Maybe that's the point. A little bit of sweetness. A little bit of hope. A reminder to do something small but good: take a brisk walk and breathe that late-winter air, invite a friend out for coffee (strawberries optional), try a new healthy recipe, go to bed a little earlier, or check in on someone you haven't seen in a while.
As we look ahead to longer days and muddier trails, it's a good time to mark your calendar for our AMC 150th Anniversary Celebration at Noble View Outdoor Center on May 23, 2026. We can't wait to gather together — our longtime members who know every bend in the path, and a special welcome to those who have recently joined our chapter. We're so glad you're here.
Spring is coming. We hope to see you on the trail... and at Noble View!
Kathy Martin, Western MA Chapter Chair
Save the Date: AMC 150th Anniversary Celebration
Noble View Outdoor Center, May 23, 2026
Since 1876, AMC has connected people to the outdoors through recreation, education, and conservation. As part of AMC's 150th Anniversary celebration the Western MA Chapter will be hosting a celebratory event at the Noble View Outdoor Center in Russell on May 23, 2026. The theme is Noble View — Past, Present and Future.
A group of cyclists will carry the commemorative AMC 150 banner to Noble View following a 27-mile ride from the Berkshires. We will honor the recipients of AMC'S annual volunteer awards and celebrate with a pot luck BBQ. There will be demonstrations, workshops, hikes, a display of the history of Noble View, a campfire, and lots more. Come celebrate the rich history, vibrant present, and exciting future of Noble View and our Western MA chapter! We hope to see you there!
You can also join the spirit of the AMC 150th Relay — a 1,500-mile journey from VA to ME — by taking part in a relay segment, attending a local event, or sharing your AMC story as we honor the past and build the future together. Learn more here.
We are Grateful for You!
You matter, and we are grateful!
For our longtime members who have been walking these trails for years — who show up week after week for hikes regardless of the weather, and have become our friends. And our new members — who bring fresh energy, new ideas, and that wonderful spark of discovery. And grateful too for all of the volunteers who keep this Chapter running — the activity leaders who are always planning outings, trail maintainers who keep the trails clear and safe, and all the volunteers who make up the eleven committees in the Chapter. You are the heart of this chapter. Every hike led, every mile walked, every conversation at a trailhead or around a picnic table — it all matters. You matter, and we are grateful!
Winter Fun Continues in Western MA
Choose an adventure and come join us!
As we clean up from another walloping storm and start counting the days until spring, we just want to remind you to stay tuned in to our activities. We have an unprecedented amount and array of activities to join in. From online book club meetings, to weekday night skiing, cross country skiing, ice climbing, gym climbing, family events, hikes of course, both easy and challenging, wildlife transects, 20s/30s outings, social events, and even an ecology hike series based on the book Tom Wessels' New England's Roadside Ecology.
There are several ways to browse for activities with the Chapter:
The Chapter Activities page of our website where events are listed in Chronological order and by Committee.
The Outdoors Connector on the AMC website, where you can select activities in any Chapter.
So choose your own adventure and come join us!
Become a Speaker for Massachusetts' Outdoors
We'll support you every step of the way
Expanded trails and parks. Conserved forests, farms, and rivers. Protected drinking water. These are just a few of the things that MA could achieve by investing $100 million every year in outdoor recreation and climate resilience projects — without new or increased taxes.
If you care deeply about the places you hike, paddle, camp, or explore, you can help make this vision a reality. AMC and our partners are working to put the Protect Land and Water Initiative on the November 2026 state ballot — and we're inviting passionate members like you to be part of that effort by joining our Speakers Team.
You don't need policy expertise or media experience. What matters most is your connection to the outdoors and your willingness to share why protecting land and water matters to you. We'll support you every step of the way with:
A live training session
Clear talking points
Responses to frequently asked questions
One-on-one support from AMC
As a speaker, you may be invited to share your perspective in local media interviews, speak briefly with community groups, appear on a local TV or radio program, or participate in other public-facing opportunities. Participation is always optional, so you can say yes only when the opportunity feels like a good fit.
Interested in lending your voice? Contact AMC's Conservation Advocacy Communicator Isabella Marin at imarin@outdoors.org to learn more. Together, we can increase access to outdoor recreation and protect MA land and water for generations to come.
Happy First Day of March!
[01‑Mar‑2026] It was one of those March days when the sun shines hot and the wind blows cold: when it is summer in the light, and winter in the shade. - Charles Dickens, Great Expectations
Happy First Day of March!
Most people can probably relate to this Dickens quote, and maybe even experienced it a bit yesterday if you had the pleasure of spending time outdoors. This month, as we weather the bridge between winter and spring, we will see the days get longer, Daylight Savings time (which is next Sunday - yay!), the snow melting, and the spring ephemerals begin to reveal themselves.
It also means tons of activities for you to join in — hikes, climbing (indoor and outdoor), family activities, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, and our third and final winter book club meeting.
There are several ways to find activities to join. Visit the
Chapter Activities page,
the Activities Calendar (to search by date), or AMC's Outdoors Connector, where you can search for activities throughout the AMC region.
AMC Eyes Whitecap Highlands Forest
Weekend Feature
[01‑Mar‑2026] AMC's newest venture is Whitecap Highlands Forest — 9,500 acres of wilderness. AMC manages it for the current owner. If AMC can raise $15 million to maintain it, the owner will donate it to the non-profit. What will it be used for? NEWS CENTER MAINE »
