
-- Heritage Walks List 2011 --
| Saturday 9/17 Walks
| Sunday 9/18 Walks
| Saturday 10/1 Walks
| Sunday 10/2 Walks
For more information, please contact:
Diane Cote, Walks Coordinator, (413) 394-9773
1. North Egremont, MA **
10:00 AM - HISTORIC PROSPECT LAKE AND ENVIRONS IN NORTH EGREMONT
Gary Leveille, from the Gt. Barrington Historical Society and author of "Eye of Shawenon - A Berkshire History of North Egremont and Prospect Lake", will guide you on a tour of historic properties, forgotten estates and old ruins on Mill Road and Prospect Lake Road. The walk will include a discussion of the fascinating people who once lived and worked in this area.
Walk is 1+ miles, 1 hour. Meet at French Park, Prospect Lake Road, North Egremont
** Pre-registration is required--call 413-528-5490
2. Stockbridge, MA **
10:00 AM - HOUSATONIC RIVER CANOE TOUR
A great trip for beginning paddlers and families! This tour will be lead by Dennis Regan & Alison Dixon, from the Housatonic Valley Assoc. Enjoy a leisurely ride on slow moving, flat water that passes through the Stockbridge Golf Course. Wildlife sightings are likely. Canoes and all equipment will be provided. If you'd like to use your own canoe or kayak, just let us know.
Tour is 5 miles, 3.5 hours. Meet at 9:45 at the Park Street river access in Stockbridge, MA .
Directions to Park Street: From the Red Lion Inn in Stockbridge... head south on Rte 7 towards Great Barrington. Park St. is your second left. Turn left onto Park St. and take an almost immediate right into the parking area for the Skateboard Park. You may see the small canoe access sign at the entrance of the parking lot. Park in the parking area – look towards the river (south across the grass)– you should see an information board. Look for our trailer with the canoes.
** Pre-registration is required--call 413-394-9796 or email: adixon@hvatoday.org Trip information will be sent upon registration.
3. Becket, MA **
10:00 AM - EXPLORING THE BECKET LAND TRUST QUARRY AND FOREST
Join Ken and Ann Smith, of the Becket Land Trust, as they guide you on a lively exploration of this historic quarry that was operational from 1850-1950. When the quarry ceased operating, nature took back this spectacular site, leaving artifacts hidden amongst the greenery. We will visit quarry view, the wooden derrick, vista and woodland trails.
Hike is 3 miles, 2 hours. From Lee (MA Turnpike), take Rte. 20 East about 10 miles. Turn right on Bonny Rigg Hill Rd. After about 2 miles, turn left on Quarry Rd. After about 1 mile, Historic Quarry parking is on the right. From Pittsfield, take Rte. 8 South. At intersection with Rte. 20, go straight across onto Bonny Rigg Hill Road. Follow directions above.
** Pre-registration would be appreciated--email to: LandTrust@BecketLandTrust.org
4. Monterey, MA
10:00 AM - THE FLORA AND FAUNA OF THE BIDWELL FOREST: A WALKING SEMINAR
Tim Flanagan, a professor of environmental and life sciences at Berkshire Comm. College, will lead a walk and explore the natural environment of the forest around the Bidwell House Museum, located on a ridge adjoining BNRC and Beartown State Forest lands. Please dress for the weather and bring something to drink. Please note: there is a $15 suggested donation, which includes a tour of the museum.
Walk is 1.5 miles, 2 hours. Meet at the museum, 100 Art School Road, Monterey.
5. New Milford, CT **
10:00 AM - HUNT HILL FARM EXPLORATION
Learn the history of this farm that dates back to the early 1800’s and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Hear about its forest and farmland preservation efforts that make Hunt Hill Farm the anchor to over 500 protected acres, and is a thriving cultural oasis. Join Liba Furhman, Exec. Director, for a relatively flat outdoor walk and for a tour of the barns and farm buildings. This guided tour includes the Cooking School, Gallery, Store and Skitch Henderson Museum, an Affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution.
Walk is 1 mile, 1.5 hours. The farm is located at 44 Upland Road, New Milford, CT. From the Berkshires, take Route 7 south to Cornwall Bridge, CT. Turn left (south) onto Route 45 to New Preston. Take Route 202 south towards New Milford. In Northville, take a left onto Upland Road to the Silo Store, Gallery and Cooking School (the starting point).
** Pre-registration is required--call 860-355-0300 or email: info@hunthillfarmtrust.org
6. Cornwall, CT
10:00 AM - STORIES FROM AROUND CORNWALL’S VILLAGE GREEN
Enjoy a stroll around Cornwall’s village green with Ann Schillinger and Denny Frost who will share stories about the town’s history, student life at its Foreign Mission School (1817-1826), about Dr. Brad Walker (1923-1978), the town’s last full time GP, and the difference in rural medicine then and today, the subject of the Society’s 2011 exhibit.
Walk is 1/4 mile, 1 hour. Meet at the Cornwall Historical Society, 7 Pine Street, Cornwall, Ct., located just off Route 4 at the intersection of 4, 125 and Pine Street. The Society is the third building on the right-hand side of Pine Street.
7. Falls Village, CT
10:00 AM to 1:00 PM - SELF-GUIDED TOUR OF THE FALLS VILLAGE-CANAAN HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUMS
Enjoy a self-guided walk to tour the Falls Village-Canaan Historical Society museums through the scenic village of Falls Village, CT. Walkers can visit the Historical Society's main museum located in a renovated historic railroad depot and the one room schoolhouse maintained by the Historical Society.
Falls Village-Canaan Historical Society Depot Museum, 44 Railroad Street, Falls Village, CT... to the Beebe Hill Schoolhouse, Beebe Hill Rd., Falls Village, CT (or the tour can be done in reverse).
8. Stockbridge, MA **
10:30 AM and 1:30 PM - TOUR THE STUDIO AND GARDENS OF CHESTERWOOD
Discover Chesterwood, the impressive country home, studio and gardens of
America's foremost public sculptor, Daniel Chester French (1850-1931). Be inspired by the natural beauty of the landscape, including perennial gardens and woodland walks, designed by the artist himself after great European estates. Learn how he created the sculptures of the Minute Man in Concord, MA, and Abraham Lincoln for the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC.
The tour will be led by Sarah la Cour, a Chesterwood Advisory Council member, and landscape historian. Dress for the outdoors.
Walk is 1/2 mile, 1 hour. From Stockbridge, travel west on Route 102, turn left or south on Route 183. At 0.25 of a mile past the Norman Rockwell Museum, turn right onto Mohawk Lake Road and then left onto Willow Street, which becomes Williamsville Road, an unpaved road just before Chesterwood.
** Pre-registration is required--call 413-298-3579
9. Pittsfield, MA
1:00 PM - BEHIND THE SCENES TOUR AT BARRINGTON STAGE COMPANY
Take a behind-the-scenes tour of Pittsfield's acclaimed theatre - Barrington Stage Company, with Jeff Roudabush, Director of Production. Learn about the theater building's 100-year history and 2005 renovation by BSC. You'll get to see what it's like to stand on stage and will have a full tour of the lower level, including the star dressing rooms. Then, walk across the street to tour BSC's costume shop and props, located upstairs from the Spice Dragon restaurant. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for stairs.
Tour is 1 hour and will commence at the Barrington Stage Company (BSC) Mainstage Theatre, located at 30 Union St.in downtown Pittsfield, just off North St. The closest public parking to the BSC Mainstage is the parking garage on Summer St., one block south of Union St. Additional on-street parking is available on weekends.
10. Lanesborough, MA **
1:00 PM - MT GREYLOCK--THE BRADLEY FARM INTERPRETIVE TRAIL
Join Steve Linscott, MA State Park Interpreter, for a woodland hike on the Bradley Farm Interpretive Trail, at the base of Mt. Greylock. The farm was former agricultural land, now reclaimed by northern hardwood forest. Discover the cultural and natural history stories in the landscape at the base of this iconic Berkshire landmark. Also, enjoy the panoramic view of the Housatonic Heritage Area. Wear sturdy footwear and appropriate clothing for weather. Recommend bringing a personal drink and snack.
Hike is easy to moderate, 1.8 miles round-trip, 500 foot elevation gain, 1.5 hours. Meet at Visitor Center, 30 Rockwell Road, Lanesborough, MA, 1.5 miles from intersection of US Rt 7 and North Main St.
** Pre-registration is required--call 413-499-4262 or email: alexander.gillman@state.ma.us
11. Kent, CT **
POSTPONED - 1:00 PM - HISTORY, LORE AND LEGACY OF THE CIVILIAN CONSERVATION CORPS IN CT
Join author and historian, Marty Podskoch, for his Power Point presentation on the History, Lore & Legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps camps in Connecticut.
Presentation is 1 hour. Location: Sloane Stanley Museum, 31 Kent-Cornwall Road ( Route 7), Kent, CT
** Pre-registration is required--call 860-927-3849 or email: barbara.russ@ct.gov
This walk has been POSTPONED till Saturday October 22 at 1:00 PM
12. Becket, MA **
2:00 PM - BEHIND THE SCENES TOUR OF JACOB’S PILLOW DANCE
Art, history, and nature come together at Jacob’s Pillow, lauded worldwide as a “hub and mecca of dancing” (TIME Magazine). Join Pillow staff on a behind-the-scenes tour of this National Historic Landmark and 2010 recipient of a National Medal of Arts. Will include a screening of footage from performances and an optional stroll on the nature trail through woodlands.
Tour is 1.5 - 2 hours. Drive Route 20-East for 8 miles from Lee into Becket, and then turn left for ½ mile on George Carter Road. Walking will be mostly flat, on gravel pathways, elevated treadways, and dirt paths. This heritage walk takes about an hour and a half and will meet at the Hunter House at Jacob’s Pillow, which is located at 358 George Carter Road, Becket, MA.
** Pre-registration, by Sept.16, is required for this tour--call 413-243-9919 x132 or email: tbolger@jacobspillow.org
13. Lenox, MA **
4:30 PM - HISTORIC “PAPER-MAKING TRAIL” BY RAIL - FROM LENOX TO STOCKBRIDGE
This scenic train ride, featuring a vintage, restored 1950's locomotive and 1920's coaches, will be a slow ride along the Housatonic River to Stockbridge, stopping along the route to view past sites of key paper making mills and other industries. Historical narration will be provided by noted local authorities. Further discussions and refreshments at the Stockbridge Station.
Train will leave Lenox Station at 5:00 pm and return by 9:00 pm. Train ride with box dinner included -- $25 OR for train ride only (no meal) -- $15
Narrated train tour is 4 hours. Meet at the Lenox Station on Willow Creek Road at the east end of Housatonic St., Lenox.
** Pre-registration & ticket purchase is required--please go to our website: www.berkshirescenicrailroad.org
14. Ashley Falls, MA **
5:00 PM - SUNSET SERENADE - BAGPIPE CONCERT AT BARTHOLOMEW’S COBBLE
Don Worth will present a 45 min. bagpipe concert to the setting sun at one of the most scenic overlooks in the Berkshires. Come to the The Trustees of Reservations' Bartholomew’s Cobble Visitor Center by 5:00 pm, toss your lawn chairs, blanket, and picnic basket in our truck and hike 1/2 mile (takes 20 mins) to the top of Hurlburt’s Hill.
For Trustees members: Adults- $8, Children-free. For non-members: Adult-$10, children-$1.
RAIN DATE - SUNDAY, SEPT. 18
Walk is 1/2 mile uphill and takes 20 mins. From Great Barrington, MA, take Rt 7 south, through Sheffield for about 8 miles. Turn right on Rt. 7A and follow for 0.5 mile. Turn right on Rannapo Road and follow for 1.5 miles. . Turn right on Weatogue Road. Bartholomew’s Cobble entrance and parking is ahead on the left. OR, from Canaan, CT, take Rt. 7 north. Turn left on Rt. 7A and cross the state border. One mile after the state line, turn left on Weatogue Road. Bartholomew’s Cobble entrance and parking is ahead on the left.
** Pre-registration is required--email: rwendell@ttor.org or call 413-229-8600
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 18
15. Pittsfield, MA **
9:00 AM - MELVILLE’S MILLENNIUM TRAIL WALK AT ARROWHEAD
Join us for a hike on Melville's Millennium Trail at Arrowhead Museum. This is similar to the path Melville would have taken as a young man, while visiting his Uncle Thomas, who owned what is now the Country Club of Pittsfield. Melville loved the outdoors and hiked throughout Berkshire County during his years here. The trail is somewhat hilly and rough, but is mown regularly. There are some benches for seating and great views of Mt. Greylock.
Walk is 1.2 miles, 3/4 hour. Meet at Arrowhead Museum, 780 Holmes Road (off of Rt 7), in Pittsfield, MA.
** Pre-registration is required--call 413.442.1793 or email: director@berkshirehistory.org
16. Monterey, MA
9:30 AM - EXPLORING MONTEREY’S PAST - CHARCOAL MAKING, FARMING AND STONE WALLS AT GOULD FARM
Join Robert Rausch, Gould Farm's Forest Steward, on a guided tour of part of Gould Farm's 600 acres of woodland as he describes Monterey's past, including charcoal making, farming, and stone walls at Gould Farm. In 1913, William Gould, a visionary and pioneer in social reform purchased a farm in the Berkshire hills, giving birth to the nation's first residential therapeutic community in the nation that was dedicated to helping adults with mental illness move toward recovery and greater independence through community living, meaningful work and individual clinical care.
Nearly a century later, Gould Farm's success continues to stem from the truth that a society is healthiest when its most vulnerable members are enabled to thrive.
Walk is 2 miles, 2 hours. If taking the Mass turnpike, get off at Exit 2. Go left off the ramp and turn right on Rt 102. About 100 yards from leaving the turnpike, take a left turn onto Tyringham Road, drive 5.5 miles, then turn right onto Monterey Road . Drive 4 miles to Rt 23 in Monterey. At Rt 23, turn right, and go about 2 miles, then turn left onto Curtis Road and drive until you reach Gould Road. Turn left and continue to the 2nd driveway on your right, to the Harvest Barn. Park there and follow the signs.
Note--walk is of moderate difficulty. Wear sturdy footwear and bring something to drink, bug repellent and rain gear, if needed.
17. Lee, MA **
10:00 AM - GUIDED, INTERPRETIVE HIKE AT BASIN POND TRAIL
Basin Pond is a small beaver pond in East Lee. This serene and beautiful place has twice been associated with tragedy: attempts to dam the pond for power in 1886 and 1968 for a leisure home project caused loss of life and heavy property damage. The area is now stewarded by the Berkshire Natural Resources Council and trails here were opened in 2006. The hike, which will be led by Doug Bruce, from BNRC, will pass an overlook by the breached dam. Hiking boots are recommended as well as hiking sticks for crossing brooks with rocky steps.
Walk is 2 miles, 1.5 hours. From the intersection of Rt 102 and Rt 20 in Lee, MA (off exit 2 of the Mass Pike and near the Prime Outlet Mall), drive east on Rt 20 for 4 miles, turn left on Becket Road across from LuJohn's Auction Gallery & Belden Tavern. Drive uphill 0.3 mile to the small BNRC parking area for Basin Pond, on the left.
** Pre-registration is required--call 413-499-0596 or email: dbruce@BNRC.net
18. Stockbridge, MA
10:00 AM - GUIDED WALKING TOUR OF HISTORIC MAIN STREET IN STOCKBRIDGE
Within this short distance participants will travel through 275 years of history, starting with the first residents, Chief Konkapot and the Mohican tribe and moving through time to discuss Cyrus Field and his transAtlantic cable, to Arlo Guthrie and Alice’s Restaurant. Along the way, we’ll hear about other residents who have made a difference in Stockbridge, the Berkshires, and the country. The tour will be led by Barbara Allen, curator of the Stockbridge Library Historical Museum and Archives.
Walk is 1 mile, 1 hour. Meet at the Stockbridge library on the corner of Main Street and Elm St., Stockbridge, MA.
19. Falls Village, CT **
10:00 AM - AMERICAN CHESTNUTS: LOST & FOUND
Join Ellery "Woods" Sinclair for a walk into a 300-plantings American Chestnut Orchard at Great Mountain Forest. This walk includes a presentation about the dramatic, sudden loss of this major, valuable tree of the Eastern hardwood forest and the ecological impact of that loss. Woods will also talk about the efforts of the American Chestnut Foundation to restore this iconic tree to the American landscape (using this orchard of saplings as a demonstration) with possibly a simulation of the process of selective pollination / back-cross, which makes today's trees possible. Cider and chestnut cookies will be served and there will be an optional short walk to see an "American Chestnut" cabin.
Walk is 1/4 mile, 1.5 hours. Take Route 7 or Route 63 to Undermountain Road in Falls Village, CT. The grove will be posted with signs for the walk. It is located approx. 3 miles from Route 7--it will be on the left side of the road, OR approx. 1 mile from Route 63--it will be on the right side of the road. Rain Cancels.
** Pre-registration required--call 860-824-7454 or email: WML61@comcast.net.
20. Becket, MA **
10:00 AM - BEHIND THE SCENES TOUR OF JACOB’S PILLOW DANCE
Please refer to walk number 12 for a complete description of this event.
21. Windsor, MA **
10:00 AM - GHOST TOWN BACKCOUNTRY HIKE AT NOTCHVIEW RESERVATION AND
TAMARACK HOLLOW
Hike the rugged backcountry of Notchview Reservation, on and off the trail, with naturalist Aimee Gelinas M.Ed, founder of Tamarack Hollow Environmental and Cultural Programs and outdoors guide at EMS. Look for cellar holes and other signs of abandoned homesteads throughout the reservation on this 3+ mile moderate to strenuous hike (there will be a car spot at the beginning of this one way hike). Wear waterproof boots, layered, warm clothing, bring a drink and lunch.
Hike is 3+ miles, 3 hours. Meet at the entrance to Windsor Jambs State Park on River Road in Windsor, off of Rt 9.
Visit http://www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/western/wnds.htm for directions to the park entrance.
** Pre-registration required--call the Berkshire EMS store 413- 445-4967
22. Richmond, MA
11:00 AM - HILLTOP ORCHARD’S HERITAGE - ANTIQUE APPLE TOUR
Explore this historic orchard on a pleasant walk to the top of the hill. The view from this vantage point is spectacular. Along the way, learn about the history of Hilltop Orchards, from proprietor John Vittori, and enjoy a tree ripe apple. Learn how the owners are preserving and perpetuating many varieties of rare heritage-antique apples. This is also the home of the Berkshires' first farm winery – enjoy a free wine tasting of the award winning Furnace Brook Winery varietals at the conclusion of the walk.
Walk is 1/2 mile, 1 hour. Meet outside the Farm Winery Store at Hilltop Orchards -- Rt. 295 (508 Canaan Rd) (just east of the NY border in Richmond, MA and about 1 mile west of MA-41).
23. Stockbridge, MA
11:00 AM - AUTUMN STROLL ON THE MARY FLYNN TRAIL
An easy walk in the woods and along the Housatonic River, on a wide, packed-gravel trail, built mostly on the bed of the old Berkshire Street Railway trolley line. Starting with a 100-foot boardwalk, the trail winds through the woods and meets the river, then loops back along the river through fern beds to the main trail. This trail was constructed in 2003 as part of the Laurel Hill Association’s 150th Anniversary celebration. Walk leader is Patricia Flinn, 30-year member of the Board of the Association.
Suitable for people of all ages and abilities. Wheelchair accessible.
Walk is 1.2 mile, 3/4 hour. Meet at the Goodrich Memorial Footbridge at the deadend of Park Street, Stockbridge. For reference, a Mobil gas station is on the corner of Park St. and Route 7.
24. West Stockbridge, MA
11:00 AM - HISTORIC WEST STOCKBRIDGE, THE STORY CONTINUES...
West Stockbridge is a wonderful snapshot of a small New England town in the 19th century with many original buildings, small industrial operations and a river running through it. Last year we walked the main part of town; this year join us in exploring the area just north of town, including the site of the Creamery, the former Round Houses and Dorr's Row. This walk will be led by Bob Salerno and Barbara Dowling from the West Stockbridge Historical Society.
Walk is <1 mile, 1.5 hours. Tour will begin at the Nook & Cranny Restaurant parking lot on Rte. 102 just north of the bridge and main downtown area.
25. Richmond, MA **
1:00 PM - HISTORIC RICHMOND CENTER Cemetery TOUR
Join Gloria Morse, from the Richmond Historical Society, for a walking tour of the oldest part of the town of Richmond burial grounds, as she points out the grave stones and tells the stories of Revolutionary War veterans and noted citizens of Richmond.
Walk is 1 hour. If raining, tour will be re-scheduled to 1:00 PM on Sunday, Oct. 2. Meet at the Richmond Center Cemetery at 1101 State Road (on Rt 41, 1/2 mile north of the Rt 295 / Rt 41 intersection)--Drive to the back of the cemetery.
** Pre-registration is required--call 413-698-2560 or email: morsegloria@verizon.net
26. Monterey, MA
1:00 PM - HISTORICAL WALK ALONG FORGOTTEN COLONIAL ROAD IN BEARTOWN STATE FOREST
Local historian Bernard Drew will take participants for a hike on an old woods road that soon reaches a forgotten colonial road (circa 1770) in Beartown State Forest, which was trod by British prisoners, following the battle of Bennington, VT, in 1777. The road was abandoned as a county road in 1793. The group will visit a trio of cellar holes from homes of later, small farmsteads.
Walk is 1+ miles, 2+ hours. Enter Beartown State Forest from Blue Hill Road, Monterey. About 0.5 mile from the entrance, you will pass Benedict Pond on your right. Continue driving on the State Forest road, where you will pass a CCC camp site. The trail begins off an old woods road, where you will see other vehicles parked. This is a woods hike on moderate terrain with some climbing. There may be some bushwacking, and it is tick country. Wear sturdy shoes or boots and bring something to drink.
27. Tyringham, MA **
CANCELED - 2:00 PM - SANTARELLA ESTATE--TYRINGHAM’S GINGERBREAD HOUSE - CANCELED
Tour "Tyringham's Gingerbread House" and hear some fascinating history of the property. With it's rolling roof and storybook features, it was the former studio of Sir Henry Hudson Kitson, sculptor of the "Lexington Minuteman" and many other famous public works. The tour will include a walk through the lovely gardens and up a wooded trail.
$5/person museum donation fee.
Walk is 1/4 mile, 3/4 hour. From Rte 102 in South Lee, just west of the intersection of I-90, take Tyringham Road south. The estate is located on the left side, 3 miles from Rt 102. OR, if coming from Rte 23, drive north on Tyringham Rd., for 6 miles, and it is located at on the right side.
** Pre-registration required--call 413-243-2819 to leave notice of how many in your group.
This walk has been canceled!
28. Washington, CT **
2:00 PM - NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE WALK
Join Dr. Lucianne Lavin, Director of Research and Collections at the Institute for American Indian Studies, for a walk along the museum's nature trails ending at the replicated 16th century Algonkian Indian Village. Along the way Dr. Lavin will discuss the history and culture of the local Pootatuck tribal peoples including their community life, spirituality, and medicinal use of the indigenous flora. Dress for walking outdoors.
Walk is 1 mile, 1 hour. Meet at the main museum building at 38 Curtis Road, off Route 199 in Washington, CT. Take Curtis Road to the end, last driveway on the right. Go into the main museum building for registration. Check our website www.birdstone.org for detailed directions to the museum.
** Pre-registration required--call 860-868-0518 or email: iais@charter.net
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 1
29. Dalton-Hinsdale, MA **
9:00 AM - NATURE AND HISTORICAL WALK ON THE OLD MILL TRAIL
Join Dennis Regan of the Housatonic Valley Association for a leisurely hike on the newly constructed Old Mill Trail. This pedestrian trail runs along a very scenic section of the scenic East Branch of the Housatonic River and connects the communities of Hinsdale and Dalton. We will explore the natural riverside environment and discuss the historical mill foundations and operations. This is a relatively flat hike along the river and the trail which is 1.5 miles long and we will hike to the end and return.
Walk is 3 miles, 2 hours. The starting location is the Old Mill Trail parking area along the Housatonic River on the corner of Old Dalton Road and Rt. 8 in Hinsdale.
** Pre-registration is required--call 413-394-9796 or email: dregan@hvatoday.org
30. Sheffield, MA **
9:00 AM - GUIDED BIKE TOUR IN THE BERKSHIRES
Marjorie Cohan, from the Berkshire Bike Path Council, will lead this figure-8 biking route which will allow beginner road riders to enjoy the first 10 miles on mostly paved road with rolling hills. For more experienced riders, we will continue another 13 miles with some more challenging hills. You choose the ride option that you would like to join us on. Helmets required.
Bike ride options are 10 miles (1 hour) or 23 miles (2 hours)--your choice. Start point - Sheffield Town Hall just off Route 7 on Depot Street.
** Pre-registration is required--email: info@berkshirebikepath.com
31. Pittsfield, MA **
9:00 AM - FALL MIGRATION AT CANOE MEADOWS
Join Audubon sanctuary director, Rene Laubach, on a walk at Canoe Meadows Wildlife Sanctuary through meadows and woodlands along the Housatonic River to view fall migrating birds. The leader will have a spotting scope to enable participants to get close-up views of the birds. Bring binoculars, if you have them.
Walk is 1 mile, 2 hours. From the intersection of Holmes Rd. and Route 7/20 in Lenox, follow Holmes Rd. for 2.7 miles to the Sanctuary's public entrance on the right (almost immediately after crossing the Housatonic River).
** Pre-registration is required--call 413-637-0320
32. Pittsfield, MA **
10:00 AM - THE COLONIAL THEATRE HISTORIC TOUR
Join Colonial Theatre tour guide, Bill Munn, on an interactive talk and walking tour of the unique history, salvation, restoration and re-opening of the 1903 playhouse. See and hear about the theatre that world famous performers loved to perform in, how it evolved into a movie house, an arts supply store and ended up becoming a National Historic Treasure when Hillary Clinton came to visit.
Walk is 1 hour. The Colonial Theatre is located just north of the intersection of Routes 7 & 20 in the heart of Pittsfield, MA. It is located at 111 South St., on the right hand side of the road when travelling north.
** Pre-registration is required--call 413-448-8084 ext. 14
33. Monterey, MA
10:00 AM - ARCHAEOLOGY ON BIDWELL GROUNDS:NATIVE AMERICANS, THE FIRST
MEETING HOUSE AND THE KNOX TRAIL
A guided walk exploring the traces of inhabitants and travelers of the area from earlier centuries. Local historian, George Emmons, will tell the story of the Native People, the early settlement of the area by the British and the trip through the Berkshires by General Knox. Please dress for the weather and bring water.
Please Note--a $15 donation is suggested, which includes a tour of the museum.
Walk is 1 mile, 1.5 hours. Meet at the museum, 100 Art School Road, Monterey.
34. Lee, MA **
10:00 AM - THE CIVILIAN CONSERVATION CORPS (CCC) - A NEW DEAL IN BUILDING PARKS
Join Alec Gillman, MA State Park Interpreter, and explore the scenic Gorge Trail up to Felton Pond, in October Mountain State Forest. Discover forgotten rustic recreation features built by the CCC 75 years ago, along with some other stories along Schermerhorn Brook. The CCC, a New Deal program during the Great Depression, improved parks and forests nationwide, and inspired a recreational heritage that we still enjoy today. Participants should wear sturdy footwear and appropriate clothing for weather, and bring personal drink & snack.
Hike is moderate 1.5 miles with 600 ft elevation gain, 2.5 hours. Meet at the intersection of (286) Woodland Road and Valley St. in Lee, a dirt pull-off. GPS coordinates: 42°20'50.70"N, 73°14'23.47"W. Shuttle van will be available to the trail head.
** Pre-registration required--call 413-499-4262 or email: alexander.gillman@state.ma.us
35. Sheffield, MA
10:00 AM - WALKING TOUR OF HISTORIC MAIN STREET IN SHEFFIELD
Take a pleasant stroll down Main Street with Barbara Dowling of the Sheffield Historical Society, and learn more about the history and houses of Sheffield, the oldest town in Berkshire County. Incorporated in 1733, Sheffield over the years was home to many who influenced the course of history including Elizabeth Freeman (Mum Bett), Theodore Sedgwick, the Ashleys and the Barnards. The walking tour will highlight some of the main features of the town and provide information on important sites and history of the surrounding area.
Walk is < 1 mile, 1.5 hours. Tour begins behind the historic Dan Raymond House Museum at 159 Main St., Sheffield, immediately north of the Mobil station on Rte. 7.
36. Ashley Falls, MA **
10:00 AM - HURLBURT’S HILL HAWK WATCH & PICNIC AT BARTHOLOMEW’S COBBLE
Join area naturalists to scan the sky for one of the annual wonders of the animal kingdom. Feel free to bring a picnic lunch and spend an afternoon exploring the trails.
Trustees Members-FREE... Nonmembers: Adult-$5; Children-FREE.
Walk is 1/2 mile uphill, event is 2 hrs. For driving directions, please refer to walk number 14.
** Pre-registration is required--email: rwendell@ttor.org or call 413-229-8600
37. Gt. Barrington, MA
10:00 AM - HOUSATONIC RIVER WALK--BERKSHIRE’S NATIONAL RECREATION TRAIL
The Housatonic River Walk, Berkshires' National Recreation Trail, is a greenway trail that follows the Housatonic River along the river's edge. The walk will highlight the trail's cultural significance and conservation techniques to enhance native habitat and water quality. The Walk is in two sections, of which the 2nd section is wheel-chair accessible. The walks will be led by Greenagers, who maintain the River Walk trail.
Walk is 1/2 mile, < 1 hour. Meet at the River Walk entrance, which is next to Rite Aid on Rt 7, in the center of Great Barrington.
38. Falls Village, CT
10:00 AM to 1:00 PM - SELF-GUIDED TOUR OF THE FALLS VILLAGE-CANAAN HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUMS
Please refer to walk number 7 for a complete description of this event.
39. New Milford, CT **
1:00 PM - TOUR HISTORIC HUNT HILL FARM
Please refer to walk number 5 for a complete description of this event.
40. Lenox, MA **
2:00 PM - TANGLEWOOD - BEHIND THE SCENES TOUR
Join a guide from the Boston Symphony Association of Volunteers for an interpretive walking tour of the Tanglewood campus. The tour will include visits to the Koussevitzky Music Shed, Ozawa Hall and other music facilities. Your guide will tell you about the historical background of Tanglewood, the Boston Symphony Orchestra and the Tanglewood Music Center.
Walk is < 1 mile, 1 hour. Meet at the Main Gate of Tanglewood, Rt 183 (297 West St.) Lenox, MA.
Rain Date is Sunday, Oct 2 at 2:00 PM.
** Pre-registration is required...call 617-638-9390 or email: bsav@bso.org
41. Richmond, MA **
2:00 PM - HISTORIC NORTHEAST DISTRICT OF RICHMOND AND SCHOOLHOUSE
Join Gloria Morse, from the Richmond Historical Society, as she leads you on a walk of the ruins of the old Branch Tavern, the outside of Branch and Hall store, the outside of Cogswell Dewey-Larkin House and the Northeast Schoolhouse (on the National Register of Historic Places).
Walk is 1/4 mile, 1 hour. Meet at 981 Summit Road, (just off of Swamp Rd.) in Richmond, MA
** Pre-registration is required--call 413-698-2881or email: silver413v@aol.com
42. Stockbridge, MA
2:00 PM - NORMAN ROCKWELL MUSEUM SITE AND STUDIO TOUR
Explore the Norman Rockwell Museum’s beautiful Berkshire site during the splendor of autumn. Linwood House, an 1859 Berkshire Cottage and Norman Rockwell’s studio, will be discussed during this special walking tour.
This lively tour is FREE, but does not include museum admission.
Walk is 3/4 mile, 3/4 hour. Meet at the front entrance terrace of the Norman Rockwell Museum, located on Route 183, 1/2 mile south of Route 102.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2
43. Lenox, MA **
9:00 AM - GUIDED, INTERPRETIVE HIKE AT YOKUN RIDGE RESERVE TRAIL
Originally part of Anson Phelps Stokes' Shadowbrook Estate, the 410-acre Yokun Ridge Reserve north comprises several old homesites, a beautiful, mineral-tinged pond with 50' high dam, and the headwaters of Shadowbrook. BNRC's Doug Bruce will guide hikers on a loop through the reserve on foot trails rebuilt in 2011, finishing the hike with a tour of a new trail to be built in 2012.
Walk is 3.5 miles of moderate hiking, 2-3 hours. From the center of Lenox, take Rt. 183 south for 1.5 miles, just passing the Tanglewood entrance. Where Rt. 183 bears to the left, you bear right on Richmond-Lenox Road, continuing uphill for 1.5 miles. Take a left into the parking area at "Olivia's Overlook" sign.
** Pre-registration is required--call 413-499-0596 or email: dbruce@BNRC.net
44. Lee, MA **
10:00 AM - WALKING TOUR OF HISTORIC LOWER MAIN STREET IN LEE
Learn about the history of this thriving mill town as expressed in the buildings, and the public monuments on Lee’s classic Victorian Main Street, a National Register Historic District. Caroline Young, founding member of the Lee Historical commission will lead this tour in period costume.
Walk is 1 mile, 1 hour. Meet at the Chamber of Commerce Information Booth in the Park in Lee, in front of the Congregational Church. This is at the intersection of Park St. and Main St., also known as Route 20.
** Pre-registration is required--email: rattlerprod@earthlink.net
45. So. Egremont, MA
10:00 AM - FROM BOOTS TO BUGGY AXLES - 19th CENTURY INDUSTRY IN SO. EGREMONT
Take a stroll through the village of So. Egremont to learn about the town's 19th century industry, with tour leader Nic Cooper, from the Egremont Historic Commission and the Egremont Land Trust.
Walk is 1/2 mile, 1 hour. Meet at the Academy building on Buttonball Lane, So. Egremont (which is on the east side of the village).
46. Hancock, MA **
10:30 AM - RENEWABLE ENERGY AT THE CITY OF PEACE: HANCOCK SHAKER VILLAGE WATER POWER AND ARCHAEOLOGY TOUR
Join Todd Burdick, Director of Interpretation, on this “green tour” which will focus on the Hancock Shakers’ 19th century water power technology, and other examples of renewable energy evident at the Village of yesterday and today (hydro, solar, wind, biomass, biofuels, architectural design, and smart growth town planning). Included will be a demonstration of the 1858 water power turbine, and an easy/moderate level hike to the Village’s North Family archaeological site to view ruins of Shaker buildings and dams.
This is a FREE Heritage Walk for those who pre-register and come for the walk only. Wear clothing and footware for walking through fields and woods.
For those wishing to tour the Village before the walk, regular admission fee will apply. Village admission is $17 for adults > 17 yrs -- $8 for 13-17 yrs -- free for members of H.S. Village and children <12 yrs.
** Pre-registration is required--call 413-443-0188 or email: info@hancockshakervillage.org
47. Stockbridge, MA
11:00 AM - AUTUMN STROLL ON THE MARY FLYNN TRAIL
Please refer to walk number 23 for a complete description of this event.
48. Dalton, MA **
11:00 AM - STEPPING BACK ON A SCENIC ROAD ONCE PART OF THE HISTORIC UNDERGROUND RAILROAD
Enjoy a walk with local historian Gail Pinna, and Mary Jane Caliento on historic Gulf Road in Dalton, believed to have been part of the underground railroad corridor that operated from Lebanon, NY, to Dalton, MA. The "railroad" used a cave beneath the road. The road also passes through Wizard’s Glen, which, with its dramatic rock formations and rugged terrain, has been a destination for hikers for centuries. Learn about the historic Hoose House...once owned by a local farmer of African American heritage, who served in the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry during the American Civil War. The house is also believed to have been a stop on the underground railroad.
Walk is 1 mile, 1.5 hours. Directions: From the Crane & Co. offices in Dalton, proceed east on Main Street (Rte 8 / 9), to Park Ave. (the first left after the nursing home). Driving on Park Ave., continue to the four corners at the end of the street. Turn left onto Gulf Road and drive a short distance to the parking area for the Appalachian Trail.
** Pre-registration is required--call 413-684-3312 . Wear clothing suited for walking outdoors. There are two small hills on this walk.
Rain Cancels.
49. Becket, MA **
1:00 PM - EXPLORING THE BECKET LAND TRUST HISTORIC QUARRY AND FOREST
Please refer to walk number 3 for a complete description of this event.
50. Stockbridge, MA
1:00 PM - “ON THE OTHER SIDE OF GLORY” - AUTHORS’ TALK AND WALK
Join authors David Levinson and Emilie Piper to hear about their new book about the "Glory" 54th Volunteer Infantry Regiment, and the Berkshires during the Civil War. Then join The Trustees of Reservations staff for a short walk on the African American Heritage Trail in Stockbridge. View the burial places of 54th regiment soldiers and other notable African Americans in Stockbridge history, including Elizabeth 'Mumbet' Freeman and Agrippa and Peggy Hull.
Walk is 1/2 mile, 2 hours. Location is the Red Barn behind the Mission House on the corner of Sergeant St. and 19 Main St., Stockbridge, MA (which is located one block west of the intersection of Rt 102 & Rt 7, by the Red Lion Inn. Parking along Main Street or Sergeant Street.
51. Cornwall Bridge, CT **
1:30 PM - THE IRISH AND THE IRON INDUSTRY: A SOCIAL HISTORY OF ST. BRIDGET PARISH
Join local historians Pat Conroy and Ellen Paul for a walk across the Housatonic River bridge in Cornwall Bridge, CT to discuss the landmarks and origins of St. Bridget parish. Starting at St. Bridget Church, the walk will include the site of the original covered bridge, the railroad station, and the former Methodist church. Walking back to St. Bridget Church, the walk/talk will include a discussion of some of the founding parishioners, a brief tour of the cemetery and a discussion of other related sites in the northwest corner that would be of interest to Irish heritage and/or iron industry enthusiasts.
Walk is 1.5 miles, 1.5 hours
** Pre-registration is required--call 860-868-7138 or email: pconroy@snet.net
52. Norfolk, CT
2:00 PM - A HISTORIC WALK AROUND THE NORFOLK VILLAGE GREEN
Enjoy a stroll around the Norfolk Village Green and learn about its history from Ann Havemeyer & Richard Byrne, from the Norfolk Historical Society. The Village Green became the centerpiece of the town through the patronage of one extraordinary family in the late 19th century. Descended from the town’s first pastor, four generations of the clan "Robbins, Battell, Eldridge, and Stoeckel" surrounded the Green with architectural gems designed by talented architects for the use of the community. This informative walk will take you through the evolution of the Village Green, from 1801 when merchant Joseph Battell purchased part of it as a site for his elegant residence, "Whitehouse", to the late 19th century when his children and grandchildren built the Norfolk Library and Battell Chapel. Highlights of the tour include the Tiffany stained glass windows in the Chapel and the Stanford White and Augustus Saint-Gaudens fountain on the Green.
Walk is 1/4 mile, 1 hour. Tour will begin at 13 Village Green (park on east side of the Green, in front of the Norfolk Historical Museum). Participants can also view the exhibition "The Magnificent Battells" at the museum.
53. Tyringham, MA **
2:00 PM - SANTARELLA ESTATE - TYRINGHAM GINGERBREAD HOUSE
Please refer to walk number 27 for a complete description of this event.
54. Lenox, MA
3:00 PM - EXPLORE THE GARDENS & GROUNDS OF THE MOUNT- EDITH WHARTON’S ESTATE
Explore the impressive grounds of The Mount, the 1902 estate of Pulitzer Prize-winning author Edith Wharton, and a National Historic Landmark. Along with a tour of the formal gardens, led by Anne Schuyler, participants will have the rare opportunity to view the stables, restored greenhouse, wooded entrance drive and the sites of the former springhouse and kitchen garden. The tour will cover the importance of The Mount to Wharton's literary career and her participation in the design of both house and gardens.
Walk is 1 mile, 1.5 hours. Tour starts at the ticket office at The Mount, 2 Plunkett Street (off Route 7), Lenox. See website www.EdithWharton.org for driving directions.