You might need a guide to the Pittsfield State Forest to appreciate its recreational opportunities entirely. Located just 30 minutes north of our charming bed and breakfast in Lee, this woodland park offers abundant outdoor adventures for the young and the young at heart.
Flowers and Waterfalls
Sixty-five acres of wild azaleas become the main attraction when summer rolls around. In spring, wildflowers bloom, and waterfalls swell with snowmelt. But all year round, you’ll find 30 miles of trails to explore on foot or mountain bike. And when the snow falls, traverse the same trails on cross-country skis or snowshoes.
Fishing
Berry Pond within the park attracts anglers in all seasons. It’s stocked with more than 500 trout annually, making trout understandably the most common catch. But you may also hook onto largemouth bass, yellow perch, golden shiner, or pumpkinseed.
Hiking
Hikers of all abilities flock to the Pittsfield State Forest to tackle several easy-to-moderate trails that lead to scenic vistas and mountain peaks. Among the moderate trails to consider, Shaker Mountain Loop, Lulu Cascade, and the Berry Pond Loop are your best bets. But if your interests lean more towards a casual stroll, try the Tranquility Trail, or the intriguing Deer Hill, Rotten Apple, Fuzzy Bunny, and Bear Claw Loop. Because the Tranquility Trail is paved, it’s popular with wheelchair users and those who prefer walking on smooth surfaces. And when it’s time for a break, you’ll find a wheelchair-accessible restroom and picnic area nearby.
Balance Rock
Located in the northeast corner of the Pittsfield State Forest, Balance Rock attracts visitors for its unusual marble boulder perched precariously atop a stone ledge. Left behind by a retreating glacier, it seemingly defies gravity. The highlight of the relatively easy Balance Rock Loop trail, this natural phenomenon is an Instagrammer’s delight.
Berry Mountain
Known as the best place to catch a sunset, Berry Mountain rises 2,150 feet in the Taconic Range of western Massachusetts. Here you’ll find the popular Berry Pond, the highest natural pond in the state and a great spot to take a dip in the cool water. A paved park loop road, maintained for summer use, lies between the east and west peaks of the mountain.
Additional Activities
Beyond hiking, fishing, kayaking, and canoeing, Pittsfield State Forest is a haven for all sorts of outdoor fun. Vacationers flock to the region to pursue a variety of recreational pursuits. Consider visiting any time of year if you long to bike, boat, hunt, horseback ride, go off-road wheeling, and more.
The next time you plan a getaway to the Devonfield Inn, be sure to bring along this handy guide to the Pittsfield State Forest. Let us pack you a gourmet picnic and make a day of it.
You may also want to visit Kennedy Park for more outdoor recreation opportunities!
