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Hiking Committee

The Hiking (formerly Outings) Committee organizes general, non-technical events such as hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and backpacking trips. We have a very long list of hiking trips. Most hikes occur on weekends, but we do have a tradition of Tuesday hiking trips as well. Check out our schedule!

Thanks to the leaders for leading this hike - what beautiful snow-covered scenery and that view of Quabbin was amazing! – Nancy

Thanks to the leaders for leading this hike - what beautiful snow-covered scenery and that view of Quabbin was amazing! – Nancy

Sometimes, in the winter, our "hiking" trips suddenly become "snowshoeing" or "cross-country skiing" trips. Such is life in New England!
We're always looking for trip leaders, especially those with new ideas for trails to hike. If you're interested, please contact our Hiking Chair.

Joining a Hike

Please read the AMC Trip Policy (PDF) before joining a trip.
Be sure to bring lunch and liquids, bug repellant and sunscreen, and clothing and footwear appropriate to the conditions. When car-pooling, please offer a contribution to the driver for fuel costs.
To find out more about a scheduled hike or to sign up, contact the leader, coordinator, or other person listed for that trip.

Upcoming Activities

Click or tap on the Register links to learn more and/or register for activities.

Holyoke's Historic Canals and Dam Tour

Location: Holyoke, MA
Date: 11‑Jul‑2026
Register »
Join the park interpreter for a 2-hour walk along Holyoke's canal system. Explore the history of this fascinating planned industrial city. Tour starts with a bit of historical background. Along our route see headraces, tailraces, intakes, a Boyden Turbine assembly, flywheels, and get an eyeball tour of the Holyoke dam complex. Maps of the canal system are available. Distance: 2.0 miles.
Program is free and open to all. Meet at the Holyoke Heritage State Park Visitor Center. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Dress for the weather. Severe weather cancels.
Refer to the registration page for more information.

AT Hike Series 2026 Section 9

Location: Washington, MA
Date: 12‑Jul‑2026
Register »
Section 9: County Rd to Blotz Rd (7.3 miles). Elevation change: 245 ft. This trail begins with a short but steady climb to the summit of Bald Top Mountain, offering rewarding views before leveling out along a ridgeline. Hikers traverse the expansive and picturesque October Mountain State Forest, winding through a mix of hardwoods and evergreens that provide shade and a peaceful atmosphere. The route passes the October Mountain Shelter, a popular rest stop for thru-hikers, before crossing Pittsfield Road in Becket.
The final stretch continues through rolling terrain, ending at Blotz Road. While long, this section is relatively gentle, making it an enjoyable hike for those looking for a less strenuous but scenic Appalachian Trail experience.
Refer to the registration page for more information.

NH Hikes: North Pack and Pack Monadnock

Location: Peterborough, NH
Date: 12‑Jul‑2026
Register »
Summit North Pack and Pack Monadnock out and back from the north. On a clear day enjoy views from both summits with the opportunity to climb the fire tower on Pack Monadnock during lunch. Distance is approx. 7.5 miles with 2,150 elevation gain. Moderate pace with breaks for viewpoints, interesting flowers, wildlife and photos.
Difficulty moderate-vigorous: moderate - intermediate distance and pace on mixed terrain including moderate and steep sections with occasional scrambling. Recent completion of hikes similar in distance and elevation needed. The hike may be modified based on weather or trail conditions. Participants will receive an email a few days before the hike confirming the route details.
Refer to the registration page for more information.

Clam River Hike

Location: Sandisfield, MA
Date: 14‑Jul‑2026
Register »
This trail, which consists of 2 loops and north south section called Wolf Pine Trail, travels along 2 rivers, Clam River and Buck River. We will traverse the Buck and Clam Rivers and look for the remnants of a dam, a foundation, and old stone walls.
Time: 9:30 AM (for a 9:50 AM start). Location: Clam River Trail Entrance, just off Hammertown Rd in Sandisfield. Note: The trailhead is small, so carpooling is encouraged. We will also be car spotting a short distance away.
Refer to the registration page for more information.

A.T. Backpacking from CT border to Shays' Monument

Location: Egremont, MA
Date: 17‑Jul‑2026 ➢ 19‑Jul‑2026
Register »
Have you ever wanted to section hike on the Appalachian Trail (A.T.)? Join us for a weekend backpacking adventure along the A.T. from the CT border into the Berkshires — where mossy ravines, rushing waterfalls, and ridgeline views make each mile feel earned.
We will meet Friday afternoon in South Egremont to organize a car spot before heading to the trailhead. From there, we'll hike a short distance to Sages Ravine, where we'll settle in for the night beside one of the most beautiful campsites in the region.
On Saturday, we'll continue along the A.T. to Race Brook Falls, climbing steadily and taking in a series of cascading waterfalls along the way. Sunday brings our final stretch along the ridge before descending to our exit point on Jug End Road.
Refer to the registration page for more information.

Holyoke's Historic Canals and Dam Tour

Location: Holyoke, MA
Date: 18‑Jul‑2026
Register »
Join the park interpreter for a 2-hour walk along Holyoke's canal system. Explore the history of this fascinating planned industrial city. Tour starts with a bit of historical background. Along our route see headraces, tailraces, intakes, a Boyden Turbine assembly, flywheels, and get an eyeball tour of the Holyoke dam complex. Maps of the canal system are available. Distance: 2.0 miles.
Program is free and open to all. Meet at the Holyoke Heritage State Park Visitor Center. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Dress for the weather. Severe weather cancels.
Refer to the registration page for more information.

AT Hike Series 2026 Section 10

Location: Dalton, MA
Date: 19‑Jul‑2026
Register »
Section 10: Blotz Rd to Dalton Gulf Rd (8.5 miles). Elevation change: 956 ft. This section of the Appalachian Trail blends forested ridgelines with an urban passage through Dalton, MA. The trail begins with a brief climb to the summit of Warner Hill, where hikers are rewarded with sweeping views of the surrounding valleys. From there, it follows a gentle ridgeline, passing through a mix of woodlands before reaching the Kay Wood Shelter. The journey continues over the rolling terrain of Day Mountain before descending toward Dalton. In contrast its typical wilderness setting, the trail winds through the town to Gulf Rd.
Refer to the registration page for more information.

Reservoirs, Waterfalls & Mt. Orient

Location: Pelham, MA
Date: 21‑Jul‑2026
Register »
Join us for a scenic intermediate 6-mile one-way hike along a portion of the Robert Frost Trail, featuring quiet reservoirs, rushing streams, waterfalls, and panoramic views.
We'll begin at Meetinghouse Road in Pelham and make our way to Hill Reservoir before continuing to Intake Reservoir Dam. Following Amethyst Brook, we'll enjoy beautiful rock formations and the picturesque cascades of Buffam Falls. From there, we'll cross the road and hike beneath the powerlines as we climb toward Mt. Orient and reconnect with the Robert Frost Trail.
We'll take in the views from Mt Orient before retracing our steps along the Robert Frost Trail to Atkins Reservoir in Shutesbury. As a bonus, if time and group energy allow, we'll add an optional 1-mile round-trip hike to the scenic Dean Brook waterfall.
After the hike, those who would like to continue the conversation are invited to my home in North Amherst for an informal social gathering. Feel free to bring your favorite beverage and a snack to share as we relax and unwind after a great day on the trail. Participation is completely optional.
Refer to the registration page for more information, including what to bring.

AT Hike Series 2026 Section 11

Location: Cheshire, MA
Date: 25‑Jul‑2026
Register »
Section 11: Dalton (Gulf Rd) to Ashuwillticook Rail Trail in Cheshire (8.0 miles). Elevation change: 1180 ft. Rain date: July 26. Section 11 of the AT series offers a mix of forested climbs, scenic ridgelines, excellent wildflower viewing at Gore Pond, and a small amount of walking back into town. Starting from Gulf Rd in Dalton, the trail passes by Crystal Mountain Campground before ascending North Mountain, a moderate, steady climb that rewards hikers with forested views. The trail then winds through The Cobbles, a geologic formation offering stunning panoramas of the Hoosiers River Valley. Descending into the town of Cheshire, the trail follows a mix of roads, including Furnace Hill Road, East Main St, and Main St, before reaching Railroad St, the location of the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail.
Refer to the registration page for more information.

AT Hike Series 2026 Section 12

Location: Adams, MA
Date: 25‑Jul‑2026
Register »
Section 12: Cheshire Ashuwillticook Rail Trail to Greylock Summit (8.5 miles). Elevation change: 2500 ft. Rain date: August 2. The journey begins on the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail, following Church Street and School Street, passing landmarks such as the Father Tom Campsite and the Big Cheese Monument before crossing Rte 8 and Outlook Ave. From here, the trail takes on a strenuous and steady climb up Mt Greylock, the tallest peak in MA at 3,491 feet.
The ascent winds through dense hardwood forests, offering occasional overlooks as it gains elevation. Hikers pass the Mark Noepel Shelter, a key resting point before continuing upward. The trail then crosses Rockwell Road and Summit Road, marking the final push to the summit. At the top, the Mount Greylock Summit rewards hikers with breathtaking panoramic views stretching across multiple states. The summit features the Veterans War Memorial Tower, a historic landmark, and a lodge offering seasonal amenities. This challenging yet rewarding hike is a highlight of the MA section of the Appalachian Trail.
We will hike at a moderate 1.5 mph moving pace with regular breaks. We will meet at the summit parking area at 8:30. Be prepared to carpool to our start in Cheshire. Please arrive early. Bring 2 Liters of water, trail snacks, and a trail lunch.
Refer to the registration page for more information.

New Member Hike at Chesterfield Gorge

Location: Chesterfield, MA
Date: 26‑Jul‑2026
Register »
This hike at the Chesterfield Gorge is designed to give new members a chance to get outdoors, meet fellow members, learn more about AMC, and receive an introduction to group hikes. The hike will be led by two AMC-trained leaders and an AMC staff member. While this hike is designed for new members, all are welcome.
The Chesterfield Gorge is a Trustees property that features a beautiful gorge along the east branch of the Westfield River. The hike will begin at the parking lot of Chesterfield Gorge and bring us along the top of the gorge with stunning views of the river below, then along a gravel road with almost constant views of the river. The road is relatively flat with a few minor ups and downs. We will hike at a relaxed pace to keep the group together and give us time to enjoy the gorgeous scenery. We will hike for 1 -2 miles, depending on the group's interest, then find a nice spot along the river for a lunch/snack break. After the break, we will head back to the parking lot for a total of 3-4 miles.
Please wear clothing that is not cotton, which does not dry when wet, and comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes or boots. To protect from ticks, wear long pants or use an insect repellent with DEET. Bring plenty of water (at least 2 liters), snacks/lunch, sunscreen, and hiking poles if you use them.
The DCR charges $5.00 for parking, but there is also a private lot nearby that asks for donations.
Refer to the registration page for more information.

AT Hike Series 2026 Section 13

Location: Adams, MA
Date: 08‑Aug‑2026
Register »
Section 13: Summit of Mt Greylock to Rte 2/State Rd, North Adams (6.3 miles). Elevation change: 2800 ft. Rain date: Sunday, August 9, 2026. This northernmost section of the MA AT features a long, steady descent from the summit of Mt Greylock (3,491 ft) to the valley below. The trail first descends toward Mt Williams, offering occasional viewpoints, continuing past the Wilbur Clearing Shelter, thence on to Mt Prospect, another scenic ridge along the route. The trail descends steeply past the Mt Williams Reservoir. As the trail nears North Adams, it transitions from the forested ridges to more developed terrain, following Phelps Avenue to Rte 2 (State Road), where there is an AT trail parking area.
Don't be deceived by this being a 'descent' hike. Downhills can be hard on your knees, quads and feet! Hiking poles are strongly recommended. We will be spotting cars, which will add time to the beginning and end of the hike.
Refer to the registration page for more information.

Keystone Arch Bridges Trail Hike

Location: Chester, MA
Date: 11‑Aug‑2026
Register »
Come join me on this out and back 5-mile hike on the Keystone Arch Bridges trail in Chester which follows the West Branch of the Westfield River and will bring us to four of the historic Keystone Arch Bridges, the first series of stone arch railroad bridges built in the U.S. These magnificent bridges, reaching heights of up to 70 feet, were built in the 1930s and some of them are still in use. We may be lucky enough to see a train pass by!
The trail is mostly a flat dirt road and former train track, with a short section with a moderate climb across the slope leading to the second bridge. We will stop for a lunch break at the farthest and tallest of the bridges before heading back to the trailhead parking lot.
Refer to the registration page for more information, including where to meet and what to bring.

AT Hike Series 2026 Section 14

Location: Williamstown, MA
Date: 15‑Aug‑2026
Register »
Section 14: Rte 2 to VT border (8.2 miles). Elevation change: 1760 ft. Rain date: August 16. This section marks the transition from MA to VT with a challenging but rewarding ascent. Beginning at Rte 2, the trail climbs steeply through dense forest, passing the Sherman Brook Campsite. As it winds through Clarksburg State Forest, the path offers a mix of rugged terrain and shaded woodlands before reaching Eph's Lookout, a scenic viewpoint with expansive vistas. The journey continues to the Vermont border.
For the return trip, hikers retrace their steps to the Pine Cobble Trail, which provides a more gradual descent and additional scenic overlooks before reaching the Pine Cobble Trail parking area. This section offers a mix of steep climbs, beautiful forests, and panoramic views, making it a fitting finale to the MA portion of the Appalachian Trail.
Refer to the registration page for more information.

Holyoke Revitalization Tour

Location: Holyoke, MA
Date: 28‑Aug‑2026
Register »
Discover how a city originally designed as an industrial mill town is being reimagined. Visit innovative businesses and developers that have - and are continuing to - put new life into old buildings. Building owners provide guided tours. Easy walking tour, 1.5-2 miles, ends at Choo Choo's restaurant.
Tour is free. Meet at the Holyoke Heritage State Park Visitor Center. Although the bridge on Appleton Street is closed, the free parking lot at 221 Appleton is accessible to traffic. To get to the visitor center after parking, follow the sidewalk on foot into the park, passing the Merry-Go-Round. Veer left at the sidewalk fork up to the Visitor Center. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Dress for the weather but severe weather cancels. Registration is required via AMC registration process.
Refer to the registration page for more information.

Holyoke's Historic Canals and Dam Tour

Location: Holyoke, MA
Date: 29‑Aug‑2026
Register »
Join the park interpreter for a 2-hour walk along Holyoke's canal system. Explore the history of this fascinating planned industrial city. Tour starts with a bit of historical background. Along our route see headraces, tailraces, intakes, a Boyden Turbine assembly, flywheels, and get an eyeball tour of the Holyoke dam complex. Maps of the canal system are available. Distance: 2.0 miles.
Program is free and open to all. Meet at the Holyoke Heritage State Park Visitor Center. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Dress for the weather. Severe weather cancels.
Refer to the registration page for more information.

Activity Schedule

All activities are subject to cancellation due to poor weather conditions. Check activities on outdoors.org for up-to-the-minute additions not yet shown here. Not all activities may be posted yet.
Executive 20s/30s A.T. Management Bicycling Communications Family Programs Hiking Membership Mountaineering Net Management Paddling
Snowshoers in Wendell State Forest
  LANI GIGUERE
Hiking Committee members hiking along a river
  JEANNETTE PIERCE
A hiker views the surrounding valley
COMMITTEE HIGHLIGHT

AMC 150 Hikes

Since 1876, AMC has connected people to the outdoors through recreation, education, and conservation. In 2026, we celebrate 150 years of that legacy with the AMC 150th Relay — a 1,500-mile journey from VA to ME. Each leg of the relay contributes to a continuous route across the Northeast, showcasing the diversity of AMC's outdoor legacy. The Western MA Hiking Committee has 8 trips to choose from. Find them on our activities page.
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