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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.

Hike at McLean Game Refuge

Location: Granby, CT
Date: 17‑Mar‑2026
Register »
This is a loop hike through a mixed forest of pines and hardwoods, 5 to 6 miles, on trails and woods roads and over rolling terrain. Bring microspikes and, if you use them, hiking poles. Bring water, snacks and lunch. Wear sturdy hiking boots. Dress in layers and avoid cotton clothing.

Northern Berkshires - Hoosac Range Hike

Location: North Adams, MA
Date: 22‑Mar‑2026
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Enjoy a winter outing on a lesser known trail in the Northern Berkshires. We'll visit Sunset Rock and Spruce Hill which both offer open views of Greylock and surrounding mountains. This will be out and back with a total of approximately 6 miles with 850 ft. of elevation gain.
Overall moderately challenging (intermediate) with a few steeper spots. Full winter gear including insulated hiking boots and winter traction (microspikes or snowshoes depending on conditions) will be required. Refer to the registration page for more information.

Mount Race & Racebrook Falls

Location: Sheffield, MA
Date: 04‑Apr‑2026
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Join us for an especially scenic 7-7.5 mile hike with approx. 2,000 ft elevation including 2 tall waterfalls and the open summit of Mount Race. Difficulty is overall moderate (intermediate) with some steeper sections including rock scrambles and stream crossings.
This hike may occur in winter or early spring weather conditions. An update and gear list will be sent a week before the hike. Trekking poles are highly recommended for stream crossings. Refer to the registration page for more information.

Hike Back in Time to the Forgotten Valley

Location: Huntington, MA
Date: 04‑Apr‑2026
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Hike back in time to "The Forgotten Valley" (Knightville Basin), with AMC leader Dawne Piers Gamble, leader in training Matt Barden, and local Huntington historian Chad Donavan-Hall. Chad will offer narration of the families, homes and points of interest such as the Black Panther Ski Area, located in the former villages of Knightville and Indian Hollow before construction of Knightville Dam. Pack a picnic and plan to continue the history conversation at the scenic picnic area at the base of the dam following the hike until 1:00 PM.
The 5 mile Knightville Dam trail (aka Claud M. Hill Trail) begins in Huntington just beyond the top of the Knightville Dam and abuts the Hiram H. Fox Wildlife Conservation Area in Huntington. The trail is rated as easy and follows the Middle Branch of the Westfield River, a National Wild and Scenic River. The reservoir area is a "Massachusetts Watchable Wildlife" site, so we may see some emerging spring wildlife. The trail is wide and has been improved with large cobble to allow for forestry trucks to enter the area. It is a forested trail and runs along the reservoir and the river. The hike will be out and back. There is a minimal elevation gain.
Refer to the registration page for more information.

Stony Ledge Loop, Mt. Greylock State Reservation

Location: Williamstown, MA
Date: 07‑Apr‑2026
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We will be hiking up the Haley Farm Trail to Stony Ledge. The first two miles will climb steeply until we reach Stony Ledge where you will get to enjoy some of the most outstanding views in the Berkshires looking at the "Hopper", Mts Greylock, Fitch, Williams, Prospect and Saddle Ball, and the Green Mountains in the distance. After our lunch stop, we will continue down Sperry Rd and take the Hopper Trail back to the cars.
Total mileage is 5.4 miles and 1450' elevation gain. There may still be some snow at the higher elevations. I will scout the trail before the hike to let you know what equipment is needed, i.e., Microspikes, snowshoes. Dress appropriately for the weather. Bring sufficient water and/or hot drink, lunch and/or snacks, and always an extra layer as it could be considerably cooler up on the mountain.

AMC 150 AT from Northwest Camp to Guilder Pond

Location: Mount Washington, MA
Date: 17‑May‑2026
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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.
Continuing north, the trail ascends Mount Everett (2,624 ft), the highest peak in the southern Berkshires. Though steep, the climb is relatively short, and the summit — once topped by a fire tower — provides excellent views of the Catskills and Hudson Valley.
Descending from Everett, the trail winds through a peaceful, wooded area before reaching Guilder Pond, a serene high-elevation lake surrounded by evergreens. A short side trail leads to a picnic area and a scenic loop around the pond.
Refer to the registration page for more information.

A.T. Hike Series 2026

Location: Massachusetts A.T.
Date: 17‑May‑2026 ➢ 16‑Aug‑2026
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Have you ever dreamed of hiking the entire Appalachian Trail — all 2,197.4 miles, 5 million steps, and 14 states of it — from GA to ME? Maybe it's a bucket list goal, or maybe you just love the idea of a challenge, breathtaking views, and the thrill of the trail.
Wherever you stand, the Western MA Chapter is here to help you take that first step! Join us this summer and early fall for an exciting and challenging hiking series covering the 90 miles of the A.T. in MA. Whether you're testing the waters for a future thru-hike or just looking for an unforgettable adventure, this series is your gateway to the trail. Refer to the registration page for details.

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

Location: Sheffield, MA
Date: 18‑May‑2026
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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.
The trail then begins a steep zigzag descent over rock ledges and eventually crosses Jug End Rd alongside two stone walls and an open pasture before coming to MA41. A gradual ascent brings the trail into the trees along a woods road atop a ridge.
The trail crosses a series of bog bridges to higher ground and another ridge, then over Hubbard Brook on a large bridge before arriving at Egremont Rd, where across the street, a kiosk and stone monument commemorate the last battle of Shays' Rebellion in 1798. Leaving the monument, we travel on a grassy farm road through active farm fields and enter the woods, climbing and descending a hill before crossing West Rd.
The trail then follows the edge of a swamp, before crossing the swamp on a series of bog bridges and railroad tracks (use caution when crossing). Following the embankment for a short distance, we cross the field to US 7. The trail then enters an overgrown field and an active farm field, meanders along the banks of the Housatonic River, enters the woods briefly, and emerges at another active farm field. The trail skirts the edge of the field to the end of our section at Kellogg Rd.
Refer to the registration page for more information.

AMC 150 NET Section 5 Hike

Location: Holyoke, MA
Date: 25‑May‑2026
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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.
The hikers from the previous leg of the relay, NET Section 4, will meet us at the start of the hike to pass on the AMC 150 Commemorative Banner. You can register separately for this hike if you wish to do both sections. We will meet at the end of the hike to spot cars, then drive to the starting point to begin our hike. Come join the fun and be part of this historic event!
Refer to the registration page for more information.

AMC 150 NET Section 4 Hike

Location: Westfield, MA
Date: 25‑May‑2026
Register »
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.
We'll take breaks to enjoy the views and and wildlife we may encounter. This section is popular with Westfield residents who have several areas of neighborhood access, including with ATVs, so we will also encounter areas of erosion from misuse.
We will meet the hikers for the next leg of the relay, NET Section 5 (on Apremont Way), to pass on the AMC 150 Commemorative Banner. You can register separately for this hike if you wish to do both sections. We will meet at the end of the hike to spot cars, then drive to the starting point to begin our hike. Come join the fun and be part of this historic event!
Refer to the registration page for more information.

AMC 150 NET Section 6 Hike

Location: Easthampton, MA
Date: 26‑May‑2026
Register »
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.
We'll take breaks to enjoy the views of the farmland below and the Berkshire foothills in the distance. The hikers from the previous leg of the relay, NET Section 5, will meet us at the start of the hike to pass on the AMC 150 Commemorative Banner. You can register separately for this hike if you wish to do both sections.
We will meet at the end of the hike to spot cars, then drive to the starting point to begin our hike. Come join the fun and be part of this historic event!
Refer to the registration page for more information.

AMC 150 Holyoke Range Seven Sisters and Mt Norwottuck

Location: Amherst, MA
Date: 28‑May‑2026
Register »
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.
This is a strenuous hike due to elevation changes and rocky terrain. The terrain is varied, with steep ascents and descents and also gentler flat or rolling rambles. Along the way, hikers experience stunning panoramic views over the Pioneer Valley and into Vermont, New Hampshire, and Connecticut. 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 and appreciate the natural beauty this hike offers. Refer to the registration page for more information.

AMC 150 NET Hike Wendell to Farley

Location: Shutesbury, MA
Date: 31‑May‑2026
Register »
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.
We will gather at 9:00 AM at the starting point to move cars for transportation back at the end of the hike, and plan to start hiking by 10:00 AM.
Refer to the registration page for more information.

[Women+] Reflection Hike in the Southern Berkshires

Location: Sheffield, MA
Date: 19‑Jun‑2026
Register »
Join this Women+ group as we meander through the fields, rocky outcroppings, wetlands, woodlands and spectacular views of the beautiful, bio-diverse Southern Berkshires in MA. This generally easy, 4-mile hike with an elevation of 469 ft will take approximately 2.5 hours. Along the way we will pause to read and reflect on Elizabeth Freeman, the celebration of Juneteenth (the end of slavery in America) and this nation's complicated history with freedom. Following the hike there will be an optional drive to the burial site of Elizabeth Freeman and lunch at Main St Cafe.
Please be prepared at the trailhead on the day of the hike for the conditions you may encounter while hiking, such as rocks, exposed roots and mud. It is essential to have proper footwear (sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are recommended), snacks, and water (two liters for the average hiker). Rain gear and hiking poles are suggested. Please dress in layers, as it is easier to peel than to bundle if the temperature changes. Avoid cotton if you can, as it does not retain warmth once damp. A hat, sunscreen and bug repellent are recommended.
Refer to the registration page for more information.
Affinity activities are designed for a specific audience, but everyone is welcome. If you do not identify with the specified group, we trust that you have reviewed our allyship criteria, have done your due diligence to educate yourself, and have committed to abide by our Code of Conduct. If you have questions, please contact the trip leader(s) by emailing them 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.
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