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Home , Brodie Mountain, Hoosac Tunnel, Mohawk Trail, Mount Greylock, Taconic Crest Trail

CHAPTER 4

Outdoor Recreational Resources HE OUTDOOR recreational resources located along the Mohawk Scenic Byway are among the region’s greatest assets. The and the ous terrain of the Berkshire Hills provide the backdrop forT a wealth of outdoor activities along the Byway corridor. The large variety of outdoor recreational activities include camping, hik- ing, mountain biking, whitewater sports, horseback riding, hunting, fishing, golfing, off-road driving, rock climbing, cross-country ski- ing, snowmobiling and downhill skiing. This chapter of the Corri- dor Management Plan inventories these facilities by type of activity, identifies issues related to the existing and potential increase in the use of the recreational facilities, and recommends future actions to ensure that the recreational resources remain an asset to the region’s economy and quality of life. While this Corridor Management Plan primarily focuses on re- sources within a half-mile radius of the Byway (Route 2), the recre- ational resources section of the report does include attractions that are located outside of this project area boundary, but within the towns along the Byway. Recreational resources that are primarily accessible from the Byway route and within a short drive have been included. The resources located directly along the Byway are noted as such.

There is an outstanding system of viewing are also enjoyed. In addition, state forests, parks and wildlife man- there are a number of open space and agement areas near the conservation areas that are owned by Scenic Byway in northwestern other organizations, such as munici- Franklin and northern Berkshire palities or nonprofit conservation or- Counties. The Department of Envi- ganizations, and maintained for public ronmental Management (DEM) owns use. and manages seven properties that are Many of the State forest facilities located either along the Byway or have overnight accommodations, toilet within a few minutes drive off of the facilities and showers; however, the Byway. In addition, the schedules and availability varies from Division of Fisheries and Wildlife park to park. Some of the facilities are manages one wildlife area located near only available in the warmer weather. the Byway study area. Combined, Mohawk Trail State Forest, and Savoy these areas provide almost 36,000 acres Mountain State Forest offer overnight and hundreds of miles of multiple use accommodations year-round. The in- for , mountain biking, expensive accommodation and facili- horseback riding, cross-country ski- ties provided at the state park ing, off-road driving and campsites and cabins are popular with snowmobiling. Most but not all of the various groups, and are often sold out State forests also have facilities for on weekends. The policy for renting a camping, swimming, and picnicking, camping site without an advance reser- while fishing, hunting and wildlife vation varies from park to park. Reser-

44 MOHAWK TRAIL SCENIC BYWAY The Byway as it travels through vations are strongly encouraged, and scription of the facility and a summary Mohawk Trail State Forest in are booked through Reserve America of the activities available at each of Charlemont by calling 1-877-I-CAMP-MA or 1- these sites are also included below. 877-422-6762 or visiting their website at www.ReserveAmerica.com. Reser- CHARLEMONT vations may be made as early as six Mohawk Trail State Forest months prior to the date of arrival or ★ 6,457 acres as late as two days before arrival. Mohawk Trail State Forest is lo- cated on Route 2 four miles west of Charlemont center. The Mohawk Trail State Forests State Forest is one of the most scenic woodland areas in Massachusetts. This and Wildlife state forest encompasses much of the last remaining old growth forest in the state. Management Areas The forest includes over 18 miles of riv- Below is a listing of the parks, state ers and streams that are excellent for forests, conservation areas and wildlife trout fishing; a swimming area in the management areas located either di- Cold River; and a day use picnic area. rectly on the Mohawk Trail Scenic By- There are 56 campsites and six overnight way or within the towns along the log cabins. The six units, along with toi- Byway. DEM maintains the State For- let and shower facilities, are open year est and Parks system, while the Divi- round, which is rare for most of the state sion of Fisheries and Wildlife maintain forest facilities in . the Wildlife Management Areas. The Many of the original Native American parks, state forests, conservation areas trails, including the Mahican-Mohawk and wildlife management areas that are Trail, are open for hiking. The activities located directly along Byway are noted available in the forest include: handi- with a star icon (MM★ ). A brief de- capped accessible camping, handicapped accessible picnicking, handicapped acces-

CHAPTER 4: Outdoor Recreational Resources 45 chasm, finally plunging over a preci- pice to a clear pool below. The facilities and activities available include: fishing, swimming, hiking, mountain biking, camping, cross-country skiing, hunt- ing, accessible camping, accessible restrooms, accessible picnicking, ac- cessible trails, boating (non-motor- ized), boat ramp, canoeing, historic site, designated off-road vehicle trails, horseback riding trails, interpretive program, picnicking, restrooms, scenic viewing area, showers and walking trails.

FLORIDA Florida State Forest 778 Acres This State Forest can be accessed from an unmarked trailhead at the Western Sum- mit in North Adams. This forest is for Savoy State Forest, one of the passive day use only; there are no formal many state-owned recreational sible restrooms, camping, canoeing, pic- trails and no facilities on the property. facilities in the Byway region. nic area, camping, swimming, fishing, hunting (with restrictions), interpretive NORTH ADAMS program (seasonal), restroom facilities Natural Bridge State Park and showers, scenic viewing area, walking 47 acres trails, hiking, cross-country skiing, The site of a major marble snowshoeing. ★ quarry from 1810 until 1947, Natural Bridge State Park offers visi- SAVOY tors the opportunity to tour the aban- Savoy Mountain State Forest doned quarry and see the only marble 11,118 acres dam in . The “natural ★ Savoy Mountain State Forest en- bridge” is a marble arch created over compasses many miles of thousands of years of melting glaciers wooded trails that are available for rec- and the fast-flowing Hudson Brook. reational use during all of the seasons. The bridge spans a rushing brook that The scenic North and South Ponds, tumbles through a steep gorge. The with wooded edges and hills rising in quarry produced course-grained white the distance, offer tranquil places to marble from the early 1800s and was a fish, picnic and swim. Forty-five camp- privately owned tourist attraction sites are located in an old apple orchard from 1950 to 1983. The property be- and four log cabins with stone chim- came a state park in 1985 and is man- neys overlook South Pond. These cab- aged by DEM. During the summer ins were built by the Civilian months, park interpreters are on hand Conservation Corps (CCC) and are to explain the natural forces that cre- available for rental year-round. The ated the bridge and its more recent state forest’s spectacular natural fea- human-related history. The facilities tures include Bog Pond, with its float- and activities available include: pic- ing bog islands, and Tannery Falls, nicking, fishing, hunting, hiking, with multiple cascades through a deep cross-country skiing, historic site, in-

46 MOHAWK TRAIL SCENIC BYWAY terpretive program, restrooms, scenic clude: hiking, camping, wilderness viewing area, and walking trails. camping, historic site, cross country skiing, hunting (with restrictions), in- CLARKSBURG terpretive program, picnicking, rest- Clarksburg State Forest rooms, scenic viewing, visitor center Approximately 3,000 acres and snowmobiling. The historic Thun- Like Florida State Forest, this property derbolt Trail is available for rugged is rustic and has no facilities. There is downhill skiing. a minimal trail system, but breathtak- ing views of both the Berkshire Hills WILLIAMSTOWN and Green can be seen Green River Wildlife from the and the Management Area Pine Cobble Trail. The activities avail- 489 acres able include hunting and hiking. This management area is located just south of the Five Corners intersection of NORTH ADAMS/WILLIAMSTOWN Routes 7 and 43. The activities available include hiking, hunting, and fishing. State Reservation 12,500 acres WILLIAMSTOWN Mount Greylock is the highest peak in Taconic Trail State Park Massachusetts (3,491 feet). Mt. Grey- 1,774 acres lock was acquired by the Common- This park is located along the ridgeline wealth in 1898, and was the first state of the Taconic Hills, which border the park. For years, Mt. Greylock has in- Massachusetts- state line. spired artists and writers, including au- Majestic views of mountainous New thors and Henry David York, , and Massachusetts can Thoreau. The summit, which offers a be seen from the Taconic Crest Trail, a five-state view, can be reached by foot, well-know north-south hiking trail that bicycle, skis or automobile. Bascom traverses the mountain tops of this Lodge, built by the Civilian Conserva- range. There are no facilities in this tion Corps (CCC) in 1937, provides park; motorized vehicles are prohibited. overnight accommodations and meals at The facilities and activities available in- the summit during the summer and fall. clude: hiking, hunting and fishing. The reservation is a naturalist’s de- light with 45 miles of trails including As can be seen by this long list of rec- the Appalachian Trail. To reduce con- reational facilities, the State of Massa- MAJOR FINDING flict between users, a limited number of chusetts owns several thousands of acres trails are designated to allow mountain of land open to the public. Maintaining The extensive biking and snowmobiling. The Thunder these properties, including numerous network of DEM Bolt Trail, famous for international campgrounds and thousands of miles of Forests and Parks downhill ski racing in the 1930’s and trails, is an enormous task. However, located along the 40’s, has maintained a cult following, the state Forest and Park system in Byway are dete- despite the fact that it has no chair lift Western Massachusetts has been under or rope tow and is no longer groomed funded for several years. Capital im- riorating as a re- for downhill skiing. DEM provides a provement projects are on perpetual sult of heavy use year-round schedule of environmental hold, many of the park facilities are in and a lack of suf- education and outdoor recreation pro- need of repair, trail systems are showing ficient funding for grams. Thirty-five campsites are avail- signs of erosion, and staff morale is low. able, as are picnic sites and a pavilion. It is feared that the state fiscal crisis will staff and general The facilities and activities available in- increase the level of disrepair that the maintenance.

CHAPTER 4: Outdoor Recreational Resources 47 system is in. Recent budget cuts are view of the . The original forcing state agencies to limit personnel wooden tower was constructed in 1879, and programs. In fact, agency personnel but was later deemed unsafe and torn with several years’ worth of service are down, and in 1912 a stronger, sandstone being encouraged to retire early, and observation tower was erected. Today, a there is little or no intention of hiring re- visitor may walk up to the tower, less than placements. This is extremely unfortu- a mile from the parking area, or drive up nate for the forest and parks themselves, and park at the base of the tower. for local economies relying on outdoor In addition to the tower alone, there recreational tourism, as well as for visi- is a system of trails on Rocky Moun- tors to look forward to using the parks. tain that stretches between Mountain Road (to the South) and Stone Farm Lane (to the North). Highland Park runs south from Mountain Road to Other Significant Sachem Head. Many of these trails are Recreation Areas suitable for cross-country skiing in the winter. In addition, the Ridge Trail

GREENFIELD runs down the top of the rocky ridge. Greenfield Energy Park This trail is a continuation of the Pocumtuck Ridge Trail, which travels The Greenfield Energy Park is located from Sugarloaf in South Deerfield. on Main Street (Route 2A) in down- Parallel trails on both sides of the town Greenfield. The park was con- ridge, provide a woodlands experience. structed to offer a pleasant and safe location suitable for picknicking, public GREENFIELD concerts or other community gather- Highland Pond ings. The park also contains education- ally oriented displays that provide Highland Pond includes a spring-fed information about sustainable energy. pond, for winter ice skating, 19 miles 1 of hiking and cross country ski trails, The park is 1 ⁄4 acres, and was developed with funding from a number of commu- clay tennis courts and a playground. It nity, state and federal grants, foundation is located on the ridge where Poet’s gifts and individual contributions. The Seat Tower is built. In addition, there is Energy Park is owned by the town of a scenic view of the western hill from Greenfield and was built in partnership Sachem’s Head. The Bear’s Den is a with the Northeast Sustainable Energy rock cave formation in Highland Park Association (NESEA). GREENFIELD

GREENFIELD GTD Griswold Conservation Area Poet’s Seat Tower The GTD Griswold Conservation The Poets Seat Tower is named for the Area is located on Lampback Road in stone edifice that was erected in 1912 at Greenfield. The area consists of 200 the sight where Greenfield’s poet, acres of conservation land. The activi- Frederick Goddard Tuckerman, was in- ties located at the conservation area spired. The tower is located on the top of include: hiking, mountain biking, bird Rocky Mountain, a 500-foot high volca- watching and nature study. nic ridge that forms the eastern boundary between Greenfield and the SHELBURNE River. The climb to the top of the tower is Mount Massamet Fire Tower three stories. From the top of the tower Located near the High Ledges, the fire there is a spectacular almost 360-degree tower is only accessible by foot.

48 MOHAWK TRAIL SCENIC BYWAY SHELBURNE River for paddlers. Some improvements Wilcox Hollow are planned to stabilize the riverbank Wilcox Hollow is a fishing and river and improve access. access spot located in Shelburne. The access was negotiated as a component FLORIDA of the FERC re-licensing agreement Dunbar Creek Picnic Area with Northeast Utilities. Located on River Road in the town of Florida, this picnic area is owned and SHELBURNE operated by PG & E National Energy High Ledges Wildlife Sanctuary Group. It includes picnic tables with This 586-acre wildlife sanctuary is fire pits and has a take-out point for owned by the Massachusetts Audubon whitewater boating on the upper Society and includes a vast collection Deerfield River. of flowers and plants that bloom May through September. The ledges offer a NORTH ADAMS panoramic view of the Deerfield River North Adams Valley. The High Ledges has trails that Historic Valley Park are open to the public. There is an ad- This 134-acre park is owned and man- mission fee of $2.00 for adult non- aged by the City of North Adams. members of the Audubon Society and The park has campsites and a concrete $1.00 for children and senior non- boat launch on Windsor Lake. In addi- members. Admission for Audubon tion, MassWildlife is currently design- Society members is free. There are no ing a pier on the lake that will provide public facilities. handicap accessible fishing. The facili- ties and activities that are available at SHELBURNE FALLS this location include: camping, hiking, Salmon Falls/Glacial Potholes swimming, picnicking. The waterfall has 3 cataracts with more than 50 potholes attesting to thou- NORTH ADAMS sands of years of erosion. Located at The Cascades the end of Deerfield Avenue off of Located in North Adams, the Cas- Bridge Street in Shelburne Falls. There cades is a 50-foot waterfall in Notch is an observation area from which the Brook, which flows through a forest of potholes may be viewed. Swimming in large hemlocks. It is a popular but sur- the potholes is highly discouraged due prisingly wild area for picnicking and to the slippery rock and fluctuating cooling off on hot summer days. The 1 water levels. Cascades is about a ⁄2 mile walk from the trailhead at the end of Marion Av- CHARLEMONT enue. The activities available at this lo- Zoar Gap Picnic Area cation include: hiking and swimming. This picnic area is located on Zoar Road in Charlemont near the Charlemont/ WILLIAMSTOWN Florida border. The picnic area is Hopkins Memorial Forest owned and maintained by PG&E Na- The Hopkins Memorial Forest encom- tional Energy Group. The picnic area is passes 2,500 acres of forest and is located along the Deerfield River ap- owned by . This area 1 proximately ⁄2 mile below Zoar Gap, a is open to the public, and activities popular white water location for experi- available at this location include: hik- enced rafters and paddlers. This is also ing, cross-country skiing, and hunting. a popular access point to the Deerfield

CHAPTER 4: Outdoor Recreational Resources 49 WILLIAMSTOWN American trails that joined the Con- Field Farm necticut and Hudson rivers by follow- The Field Farm is a 316-acre property ing the Deerfield and Hoosic Rivers for owned by the Trustees of Reservations a distance of 100 miles. The renaissance and open to the public. The property of the trail began in 1992, when a group has 3-miles of trails that travel through of Williams College students researched woods, fields, and wetlands. The prop- the history of the path and assessed its erty also includes a flat-roofed, Bau- re-establishment and reuse. haus box style house built in 1948 by From Old Deerfield to Shelburne the Massachusetts architect Edwin Good- trail follows along the Deerfield River ell, which is now operated year-round for approximately 9 miles where it joins as a bed and breakfast. In addition, the the highway and is not a separate foot surrounding terraced lawn has sculp- trail. The trail recommences again at tures and a guest cottage designed by Mohawk Trail State Forest in Charle- Ulrich Frazen and built in 1966. Pub- mont, where it climbs the ridge to lic facilities are available. The facilities Clark Mountain, emerging from the and activities available at the Field woods on South County Road, Florida. Farm include: a nature center, picnick- The trail continues along Stryker Road ing, cross-country skiing/snowshoe- to Route 2 at the Western Summit. ing, fishing, hiking, historic houses Then the trail descends steeply through and scenic vistas. the woods past the Western Summit and bypassing the Hairpin Turn, drop-

WILLIAMSTOWN ping to Route 2 just across from Rock Mountain Meadows Manor Mobile Home Park in North Adams. The rest of the trail is not 176 acres marked, but the plan is to follow East This park of open meadows and wood- Main Street to Main Street to Marshall lands is owned and maintained by The Street to River Road in North Adams Trustees of Reservations. There are no and proceed to a proposed bikeway that public facilities. The activities available at will connect North Adams to Williams- this location include: picnicking, hiking, town. The trail will eventually continue cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. to Pownal, Vermont, and generally fol- low the to Schaghticook, New York. Trailheads along the route Hiking Trails include one in the area of the State po- lice barracks in Shelburne, one at South As noted in the preceding sections of County Road in Florida (slightly off this chapter, there are hundreds of the Byway), one at Western Summit in miles of hiking trails located within the North Adams, and one across from the State forests, parks, conservation areas Rock Manor mobile home park in and wildlife management areas that are North Adams. near the Mohawk Trail Scenic Byway. The Mahican-Mohawk Trail pro- In addition, there are a number of in- vides hikers with a historic tour ter-regional routes located near and through an exquisite landscape of riv- connecting to the Mohawk Trail. ers, valleys and communities. Al- though much of the trail is completed Mahican-Mohawk Trail in the Scenic Byway area, there are The Mahican-Mohawk Trail is a multi- hopes that the trail can be expanded use recreational trail that roughly paral- eastward and westward, eventually cre- lels the Byway corridor. This is a ating an east-west link to several re-creation of one or more Native north-south trail systems such as the

50 MOHAWK TRAIL SCENIC BYWAY Greenway, Taconic trail is accessible from Pine Cobble Crest System, Appalachian Trail, Long Road and travels into Clarksburg State Trail, Catamount Trail and the Con- Forest, where it intersects with the necticut Valley Trails. The Appalachian Appalachian Trail just beyond the Mountain Club, the Deerfield River summit of East Mountain. Watershed Association, the Friends of Mohawk Trail State Forest and the Hoosic River Watershed Association worked cooperatively on this project. Camping In addition to the State parks and for- NORTH ADAMS ests there is one municipal and several Appalachian National privately owned campgrounds. Scenic Trail (AT) Mohawk Park The AT, one of America’s most cel- Route 2, Charlemont ebrated and respected hiking trails, crosses the Mohawk Trail Scenic By- Country Aire Campground way in North Adams approximately Route 2, Charlemont two miles west of the center of town at Shady Pines Campground Phelps Road. The AT runs north and 547 Loop Road, Savoy south through Massachusetts for a dis- tance of about 88 miles. Travelers who Chilson’s Pond Campground hike the AT near its intersection with Mohawk Trail, North of Whitcomb the Byway will experience the highest Summit and lowest points on the AT in Massa- Historic Valley Campground chusetts. Traveling south from the ATs Windsor Lake Road, North Adams junction with Route 2, the AT climbs (operated by the City of North Adams) for approximately five miles to the summit of Mount Greylock at 3,491 feet, the highest point on the AT in Massachusetts. Traveling north from Whitewater Rafting, the Mohawk Trail the AT crosses the Hoosic River, which at 640 feet is the Canoeing, Kayaking lowest point on the AT in the state. The AT then climbs through Deerfield River Clarksburg State Forest and after ap- The Deerfield River has become a proximately four miles it crosses into popular destination for whitewater en- Vermont and joins the southern termi- thusiasts of all abilities. In 1994, an nus of the at about 2,300 agreement was executed between the feet. The AT intersects with the New England Power Company and Mahican-Mohawk Trail just north of twelve separate organizations, repre- Route 2. Seasonal overnight accom- senting environmental, recreational modations are available at the Mount and government agencies to enhance Greylock State Reservation. the recreation, fisheries and conserva- tion along the Deerfield River. The WILLIAMSTOWN agreement was negotiated during the Pine Cobble Trail power company’s quest for a 40-year license renewal from the Federal En- The Pine Cobble Trail, located north- ergy Regulatory Commission’s east of Williamstown, offers one of the (FERC) for the use of the Deerfield finest panoramic views of the Hoosic River. The Deerfield River Settlement River valley and Mount Greylock. The Agreement was unparalleled in magni-

CHAPTER 4: Outdoor Recreational Resources 51 els. The release of water on the upper Deerfield (located in Monroe outside of the area of focus for this study) has elevated the level of whitewater, and established those upper sections of the river as more difficult, requiring a higher level of skill. This also allows the upper portion of the river to be used for events such as races, training and rafting from April until October. It also provides a sometimes, scarce resource for experienced boaters. The whitewater release schedule for the Fife Brook Dam section of the river includes 106 days of releases an- nually. This portion of the Deerfield is classified as a Class III (moderately difficult). From Fife Brook Dam in Florida, Massachusetts to the Number 4 dam in Buckland, the Deerfield River flows unimpeded for 17 miles. This is Experienced paddlers on the upper the longest stretch of the river without Deerfield River. tude representing only the second a dam and is among the most heavily such agreement in the country. The used by whitewater paddlers. For pad- terms of the agreement ensured that dlers, the most prominent feature the power companies (11 of the 12 along this section of the river is Zoar dams are now owned and operated by Gap, a class III-III+ (moderately dif- PG&E National Energy Group and 1 ficult) rapid located five miles down- is operated by Con. Ed.) would assure stream from the Fife Brook Dam. whitewater releases at agreed upon The Fife Brook section of the river times for kayaking, canoeing and other has interesting scenery that is closely paddling activities; provide free public linked to the development of the railroad access to all non-developed river re- and hydropower. Additionally, this sec- sources and non-developed project tion is important from an environmental lands; install fish passage at various perspective because it is the habitat for sites along the river; implement a pro- the variety of bird species including red gram of wildlife enhancements within tail hawks, ospreys, bald eagles, and blue project boundaries; provide minimum herons, it has active beavers, and it has flows and reservoir management to potential as a trout fishery. aquatic habitat; establish a Deerfield A put-in is located below the Fife River Basin Environmental Enhance- Brook Dam in Florida off of Old River ment Trust Fund to finance future Road and approximately 1 mile up- conservation and educational projects; stream of the Hoosac . Ap- and grant conservation easements to proximately a mile and a half down land management organizations on river, there are the remains of stone- more than 18,000 acres of land that walls, columns and lintels that were PG&E National Energy Group owns. part of a mill building which were a The determination of water release part of the hydroelectric power gen- dates and times has established the eration system used to construct the Deerfield River as a whitewater re- . Further downstream source for boaters of varying skill lev- from the mill building is a railroad

52 MOHAWK TRAIL SCENIC BYWAY bridge, which leads to the eastern en- #2 Dam located further downstream. trance of the Hoosac Tunnel. Con. Ed. has plans to implement ero- Below Zoar Gap, it is possible to sion control in this area. They are also continue down the Deerfield River for planning improvements in the future another 12 miles. A number of put-in/ to improve handicapped accessibility take-outs areas are located along the to the river in the quiet waters located route, and provide opportunities for above the Gardner Falls Dam. the moderately experienced rafters and There are several established and li- paddlers. Along this next section of censed outdoor recreation retailers the river there are several more class II along the Byway that provide water (moderate) rapids and some swim- safety instructions and rent watercraft ming holes. A popular put-in/take-out such as canoes, kayaks and rafts. The located approximately 1⁄2 mile below businesses that rent watercraft to the Zoar Gap at the Zoar Gap Picnic Area public are required by the state to pro- owned and maintained by PG&E Na- vide instructions on the proper and tional Energy Group. PG&E has safe use of the equipment. The renting some plans to complete bank stabiliza- of equipment and receipt of safety in- tion to improve river access in this lo- structions in their use is an invaluable cation. There are some take-out points introduction to whitewater recreation along the way, although much of the for the inexperienced. Water level in- frontage is on private property. formation for this section can be ob- Paddlers looking for a milder tained on the Deerfield River whitewater run can enter the Deerfield information phone 888-356-3663. River in Charlemont at the Shunpike Guided whitewater trips and instruc- rest area just east of the Indian Bridge tion on the Deerfield River are avail- or the picnic area at River Road. There able from: MAJOR FINDING are several miles of Class I (easy)— Crabapple Whitewater, Charlemont Class II (moderate) water along this Water safety in Offers five river trips in Western Mas- section of the river, including a couple sachusetts that range from easy to ad- the Deerfield of Class I-II (easy to moderate) rapids vanced. They offer both rafting and River and Glacial before the underpass of the Route 8A kayaking. Potholes are a Bridge in the center of Charlemont. 1-800-553-7238 Tw o more Class I-II rapids are located concern. between the Route 8A Bridge and the North American Whitewater, take-out, about six miles downstream, Charlemont but for the most part, the river is fast Offers rafting and kayaking, tour/flat- flowing and unobstructed. water kayaking, canoeing. Located in There is a take-out at the small boat the Berkshire East ski patrol building. launch next to Route 2 on the left as the 1-800-727-4379 river enters the dead water above the Wilderness Plus Rafting Company, Number 4 dam. This section ends at the Charlemont Number 4 dam, next to a bridge on Route Offers whitewater rafting, inflatable 2 just upstream of Shelburne Falls. kayaking and canoe trips. River access is also available at 1-800- 866-6943 Wilcox Hollow in Shelburne near the Gardner Falls Dam. Con. Ed. owns Zoar Outdoor, Charlemont this dam. There is currently a gravel Offers whitewater rafting, canoe and parking that provides access for the kayak instruction, rock-climbing and river. It is possible to enter the river at sea kayak trips. this location and paddle around be- 1-800-532-7483 tween the Garner Falls Dam and the

CHAPTER 4: Outdoor Recreational Resources 53 MAJOR FINDING In addition to the established outdoor Public Boat Access Sites Most of the businesses there are small, unlicensed in Franklin County outfitters offering inflated tubes and Byway communi- other whitewater equipment for pur- As detailed above, there are several lo- ties view a modest chase. Unlike the established retail/rent- cations along the Deerfield River in increase in recre- ing companies that are required to Franklin County with access for ca- noes and kayaks to the river. These lo- ational tourism as provide safety instructions, these smaller businesses are not registered with the cations are noted on the Recreational positive for the state and often do not provide safety in- Resources Map for Franklin County. regional economy, structions to the individuals purchasing Wilcox Hollow is a fishing and river ac- but there are the equipment. There is the concern that cess located in Shelburne near the Gardner Falls Dam. This area is owned concerns about accidents and conflicts caused by inexpe- rienced whitewater recreationists, and a and maintained by Con. Ed. There is a the impacts to the few thoughtless intoxicated rowdy indi- parking area at this site and Con. Ed. environment and viduals threaten the wild and scenic ex- has been completing improvements to the strain on local perience of the Deerfield River. There is prevent bank erosion and provide handicapped accessible access to the rescue squads. also the concern that as the number of these inexperienced recreationists in- river. Many of the access points and crease, there will also be an increased in improvement that are planned were ne- demand on local volunteer rescue squads gotiated as a part of the FERC re-li- to respond to accidents that could be censing agreement with the utility prevented by safety instruction or edu- companies that operate the dams along cational information. the river. In Charlemont, approxi- mately one mile from the Buckland/ Hoosic River Charlemont border there is an access point where boats could be put in the The Hoosic River also offers river from a trailer. This location is recreationists the opportunity to ca- down a dirt road and it is not well noe, kayak or raft. Although move- signed. There is also an area along the ment is interrupted by concrete chutes river further west that is owned and in North Adams, and roll a dam in and maintained by PG&E, which is near Williamstown, sections of the west of the river and has picnic tables. The the city are rural and enjoyable in MassHighway Department owns the times of high water. Shunpike pull-off/picnic area, which is located on the west side of Charlemont and also has access to the river. Public Boat MassHighway completes the mowing at this location. Trash removal has Access Sites been adopted and taken care of by an In addition to the boat access sites in organization called Degree of the state Forests and Parks system, Pocohontus. The informational kiosk there are several other public boat ac- at this location is being maintained by cess sites along the Byway or within a the Deerfield River Watershed Asso- few minutes drive. Listed in this re- ciation. In the past, a Sani-can port and shown on the accompanying restroom facilities had been placed at Recreational Resources Map are the this location; however, the funding was official public assess sites maintained not included in the recent budget. by state or local authorities. In addi- There is also an access point at the tion to these, there are several informal Zoar Gap Picnic Area on Zoar Road in sites that afford access to the rivers Charlemont. and lakes within the Byway region.

54 MOHAWK TRAIL SCENIC BYWAY Public Boat Access Sites beauty of the Mohawk Trail Scenic in Berkshire County Byway region. The trails within the State parks, conservation areas, and In Berkshire County, there is an access wildlife management area provide fa- point for the Deerfield River in the town cilities for those who have equipment of Florida. The put in is popular for the and are not seeking groomed trails. experienced white water paddlers and it is Among the State forests where cross- located just below the Fife Brook Dam. country skiing is allowed are Mohawk The boat ramp at Windsor Lake in Trail State Forest, Savoy Mountain North Adams, off Bradley Street, allows State Forest, Natural Bridge State Park small boats, canoes, and kayaks. The and Mount Greylock State Reserva- smaller access sites in along the Hoosic MAJOR FINDING tion. In addition to these trails, cross- River in North Adams, Ashton Avenue, There is a need country skiing is available at several and in Williamstown, off Simonds Avenue, cross-country ski centers that main- for additional are designed only for canoes and kayaks. tain groomed trails and provide oppor- access points Local residents and the Deerfield Wa- tunities to rent equipment located a tershed Association have voiced con- and parking for short distance from the Byway. Stump cerns about canoeists and kayakers the Deerfield Sprouts Lodge and X-Country Ski trespassing on private property to ac- Touring Center is located on West Hill River and cess the Deerfield River. Canoeists/ Road in Hawley, and Hopkins Memo- the Mahican- kayakers have created paths to the wa- rial Forest is located in Williamstown. ter, disrupted property owners and left Mohawk Trail. trash behind. A potential solution may be to create additional public access sites to reduce the demand for infor- Downhill Skiing mal/illegal put-ins. Also, additional signs directing river users to legal and The only operating downhill skiing established put-in/take-out areas would area directly off the Byway is the Berk- help to educate the public as to where shire East Ski Area, located on South the most appropriate placed to access River Road in Charlemont. Other the river are. In addition, improvement nearby ski areas are to river access points to make entering Ski Resort in New Ashford, Massa- and exiting the river with canoes, kay- chusetts, and Jiminy Peak Ski Resort in aks or other boats at designated loca- Hancock, Massachusetts. There were tions may also serve to channel the river four others along the Byway during users to these legal and permissible lo- the 1960s. All of them are now closed cations. It has been noted that some of the locations where there is legal access to the riverfront for boaters and pad- Golfing dlers, there are no established steps or bank structures to make access easy. As There are a number of golf facilities a result, bank erosion has occurred. located on or close to the Mohawk Trail Scenic Byway. These facilities vary in size and type of course. Below is a list of the facilities and a brief de- Cross-Country Skiing scription of each. Those located di- As noted earlier in this chapter, cross- rectly on the Scenic Byway are noted ★ country skiing is allowed in many of with a star icon ( ). the recreational and conservation areas The Country Club of Greenfield detailed in this section of the report. It Country Club Road, Greenfield is an excellent way to experience the 413-773-7530

CHAPTER 4: Outdoor Recreational Resources 55 Semi-private, 18 holes sion of Fisheries and Wildlife stocks sev- eral waterways in the region. The follow- The Meadows ing is a list of such waterways: Deerfield Street, Greenfield Greenfield: Allen Brook, Green 413-773-9047 River and Mill Brook Public, 9 holes. Shelburne: Deerfield River and Long View Tower Miniature Golf Dragon Brook, ★ Route 2, Greenfield Buckland: Clesson Brook, Deerfield Miniature golf River, and Cooley Brook Goodnow’s Chip and Putt Charlemont: Avery Brook, Chickley River, Maxwell Brook, Pelham Brook, ★ Mohawk Trail, Shelburne 413-625-6107 Deerfield River, Cold River Clarksburg: Public, 18 holes. Hoosic River (North Branch) and Hudson Brook North Adams Country Club Florida: Deerfield River, North River Road, Clarksburg Pond and Cold River Public, 18 holes. North Adams: Natural Bridge Pond Taconic Golf Club and Windsor Lake Meacham Road, Williamstown Savoy: Chickley River, Cold River, Semi-private, 18 holes. and Westfield R. (East Branch) Williamstown: Broad Brook, Hem- Waubeeka Golf Links lock Brook, Green River (West Branch), New Ashford Road, Williamstown Green River, Roaring Brook Public, 18 holes.

Farms with Hunting and Fishing Pick-Your-Own Fruits Hunting is permitted in all of the Massa- chusetts State Forest areas and Wildlife and Vegetables Management Areas along the Byway in There are a number of farms that offer accordance with the state’s regulations opportunities to pick fruits during vari- and permitting requirements. There are ous seasons in the Franklin County sec- 12 different hunting seasons. Detailed tion of the byway. Berry and fruit picking information regarding these individual are popular family outdoor activities. seasons and licensing is available from the MassWildlife District Office in SHELBURNE Pittsfield at 413- 447-9789 or online at Dole Farm www.state.ma.us/dfwele/. Fishing is a year-round recreational Located one mile north of Route 2 on activity in Massachusetts. The Cold Peckville Road in Shelburne. Pick your River in Florida and Savoy and the own apples weekends September 15th North Branch Hoosic River in through October. Clarksburg, support populations of bass, pickerel, and trout. Self-sustaining wild SHELBURNE trout populations, although rare in Mas- Apex sachusetts, are found in several areas Also located on to the north of Route along the Hoosic River. In addition, to 2 on Peckville Road. Apex provides increase the possibility of catching the pick your own apples and pumpkins. elusive trout, the Massachusetts Divi-

56 MOHAWK TRAIL SCENIC BYWAY SHELBURNE been installed at two locations on Route Mohawk Orchards 112 in Buckland near the intersection of Located on Route 2 at the intersection Route 2. This road has adequate shoul- of Colrain-Shelburne Road. Pick your der to serve as a part of a longer bicycle own apples Labor Day through Co- touring route off of the Byway. lumbus Day. In addition, DEM, working in coop- eration with the Massachusetts High-

CHARLEMONT way Department and the Federal Blue Heron Farm Highway Administration, has devel- oped a Berkshire Bike Touring Map. Located on Warner Hill Road. High- This map was developed based on the bush blueberries and maple syrup ac- results of a bicycle route survey con- cording to the season. ducted in 1993 by bicycle facilities de- velopment expert John S. Allen and details on-road touring routes which Bicycling allow the rider to take in many of the scenic and cultural features of the area. Bicycling on Roads The routes highlighted on this map are targeted towards intermediate to expe- Road bicycling safety is an issue of rienced level bicyclists. The intention much concern in the rural areas of the was to help access the beauty of Berk- Scenic Byway. While some portions of shire County, especially the DEM for- the Mohawk Trail have wide shoulders est and park system. The network of that will accommodate road cycling, routes was designed to highlight short much of the Byway is narrow and core routes suitable for the casual rider winding, posing potential dangers to that are located within the cultural bicyclists. The road is particularly centers of Berkshire County. Branch- dangerous for less experienced or ing off of those core routes are exten- young bicycle riders. However, in the sions, which are more challenging and more developed areas of the Byway, offer access to additional cultural and such as in North Adams and recreational attractions. Williamstown, bicycling for recreation The northern portion of the routes or as an alternate mode of transporta- highlighted on the Berkshire Bike Tour- tion is appropriate. Such bicycle use is ing Map is located within the project discussed in more detail in the Trans- area for the Mohawk Trail Scenic By- portation Section of this Corridor way. These routes create a link from the Management Plan. Byway to Southern Berkshire County While Route 2 itself is not appropriate via designated bicycle routes. The route for family bicycling, there may be more for northern Berkshire County is a se- suitable routes for road cycle touring ries of circular routes, generally taking that intersect the Scenic Byway and pro- bicyclists off the main routes with the vide opportunities to explore the region heaviest vehicle traffic when given the by bicycle. Specific routes off of the opportunity. However, the Mohawk Mohawk Trail have not been fully evalu- Trail, from the intersection with Route ated; however, the suggestion of devel- 8 in North Adams to the intersection oping a network of bicycling loops has with Route 7 in Williamstown, is pro- been made at numerous times during the moted as a prime bicycling route. Cir- Corridor Management Plan planning cular routes off of the Mohawk Trail, process. A few specific suggested routes lead bicyclists to Clarksburg State For- have been mentioned such as East est to the north and to Mt. Greylock Hawley Road. Bicycle route signs have State Reservation to the south. For

CHAPTER 4: Outdoor Recreational Resources 57 MAJOR FINDING more detail, see the Berkshire Bike County Bikeway and at this time only There is not one Touring Map in Appendix 4A. includes routes as far west as comprehensive A more appropriate bicycling route Greenfield. As the phases of the other than Route 2 between North project that have been in the planning resource with Adams and Williamstown should be stages move into construction during information on developed to avoid having cyclists the next few years, the FRCOG will recreational travel on a major commercial artery, be exploring further expansion of the resources. The which carries between 14,000 and regional bicycle facilities. Future ex- 16,000 cars per day. Given the popula- pansion plans will examine possible information is tion density, the relatively high num- off-road connections within the By- scattered among ber of low and moderate-income way Study Area. the many state, families in the area, and the high num- There is a great deal of interest in local and private ber of college students, the develop- North Berkshire County in extending ment of bicycle paths is justifiable in the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail from organizations that the North Adams and Williamstown Adams through North Adams to manage these sections of the Scenic Byway. Williamstown. The recently-opened recreational Ashwillitcook Rail Trail, a pedestrian/ assets. Off-Road Bicycling bike trail that has become immensely Mountain biking is permitted on many popular, runs north from of the roads and trails within Mohawk Lanesborough through Cheshire and Trail State Forest and Savoy Mountain ending in Adams, only a few miles State Forest, and also on designated trails south of the Scenic Byway. It is hoped in Mount Greylock State Reservation. that the trail will be extended north The rugged terrain of the State Parks and past its current terminus to the West- Forests offers challenging mountain bi- ern Gateway Heritage Park in North cycling routes that require from moder- Adams and then on to downtown ate to extremely difficult skill and Williamstown. If the extensions were conditioning levels. At this time, there fully realized, this would offer Scenic are no established bicycle trails or off- Byway bicycle enthusiasts over 20 road bicycle paths with gentler terrain miles of dedicated trail, much of which for the novice or family recreational bi- would run along the Hoosic River. cyclist within the Mohawk Trail Scenic The Berkshire Bike Path Council and Byway Study Area. its partners are currently investigating Both the FRCOG and the BRPC potential routes for the bike path that have been working actively to imple- would connect Williamstown to North ment off road and shared roadway bi- Adams and south to Adams. This sec- cycle facilities within their respective tion of trail is a priority for the group, regions. Providing safe and efficient which has been so instrumental to the bicycle facilities that serve as both a vi- creation of the Ashuwillticook. Several able mode of transportation and a rec- local interests have begun work on the reational facility is a priority to regional proposed route of the bike trail. The transportation planning activities. Be- Hoosic River Watershed Association low, is a summary of the work and the and the Williamstown Rural Lands potential future connections to the Foundation partnered in 1999 to com- Mohawk Trail Scenic Byway within plete a greenway study in an effort to Franklin and Berkshire Counties. continue the Mahican-Mohawk Trail The FRCOG has been working to westward. Much of this greenway is implement a regional bikeway system, also being considered for the bike trail. which includes both shared roadway Most recently, Williams College stu- and bicycle path facilities. This dents from an environmental planning bikeway system is called the Franklin class proposed three alternative routes

58 MOHAWK TRAIL SCENIC BYWAY from North Adams into Williamstown. low snowmobiles, and many of these Analyzing the options, the class pro- trails are voluntarily groomed by local posed a segment on an interceptor snowmobiling clubs. A major sewer line easement owned jointly by snowmobiling corridor, Trail Number North Adams and Williamstown, a seg- 91 on the Massachusetts Snowmobile ment in a greenway along the Hoosic Corridor Trail Map 2002 crosses the River, and a segment that would share a Byway in the town of Florida and con- right-of-way with the Guilford Trans- nects Savoy Mountain State Forest and portation Company. This initiative is Monroe State Forest. This trail also supported by the Hoosic River Water- connects an extensive system of trails shed Association and the Hudson River in northern Berkshire County and Watershed Team as it compliments their Franklin County. The map, prepared efforts to reintroduce local people to by the Snowmobile Association of the beauty and bounty of the river Massachusetts, is found in Appendix Although the preferred and alternate 4B. It should be noted that the snow- routes have not yet been thoroughly mobile trails on this map are seasonal investigated, preliminary studies con- snowmobile trails, and for the most ducted in cooperation with the Bike part they do not serve as ORV trails in Path Council suggest that some of the warmer weather. The Charlemont route could be located along an aban- Inn, in Charlemont center, welcomes doned rail line and some of the route snowmobilers, offering lodging and could be located in a greenway along trailside parking. Also, according to the Hoosic River. Much of the route state park officials, a large number of would be within the Byway Study Area snowmobilers stay at Mohawk Trail and provide additional recreational op- State Forest, which is open year-round, portunities for visitors to the Byway. to visit the Kenneth Dubuque State Forest, which has over 50 miles of groomed trails. More information on local trails and Rock Climbing conditions can be obtained from the Rock climbing instruction and excur- following organizations: sions are available through Zoar Out- Buckland Riders Snowmobile Club door in Charlemont (800-532-7483). Post Office Box 176 Buckland, MA 01338 Indian Head Snowmobile Club, Inc. Off-Road Vehicles Post Office Box 222 Off-road vehicles (ORVs) are allowed Charlemont, MA 01339 in a limited number of the state forests Snowmobile Association and parks in Western Massachusetts. of Massachusetts The only state forest in the vicinity of Post Office Box 55 the Byway that allows ORVs on cer- Heath, MA 01346 tain designated trails only is Savoy 413-3337-8305 Mountain. Adams Sno Drifters Post Office Box 25 Adams, MA 01220 Snowmobiling It should be noted that residents Savoy Mountain State Forest and have voiced a concern with inappropri- Mount Greylock State Reservation al- ate ORV and snowmobile riding on

CHAPTER 4: Outdoor Recreational Resources 59 private property in the vicinity of the Scenic Byway. This includes unautho- Universal Access rized motorized recreation vehicles (Handicapped trespassing on property that is posted Accessibility to as private property or traveling on Recreational Areas) state forest roads not specially desig- nated for ORV use, creating noise late DEM’s Universal Access Program is into the evening hours, and causing dedicated to providing outdoor recre- environmental damage. Residents ation opportunities in Massachusetts agree that these nuisances are caused State Parks for visitors of all abilities. by a small minority of recreational Accessibility to the State Parks and drivers, but such rude behavior taints Forests is achieved through site im- the public’s perception of all motor- provements, specialized adaptive rec- ized recreationists. reation equipment, and accessible recreation programs. Universal access has been made available to beaches, swimming, fishing, boating, camping, cycling, hiking, picnicking and vistas throughout the Commonwealth.

ISSUES AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Issues ■ Concerns were expressed related to concerned that an increase in recre- the high levels of use at State Parks ational use could further endanger In general, the input received during the and Forests and the lack of sufficient the safety of their members. process of developing the Corridor Man- funding for staff and maintenance. ■ Concerns have also been expressed agement Plan indicates that recre- An increase in recreational use could about informal canoe/kayak puts, ational tourism is positive for the Byway. further exacerbate these problems. which access the river from private However, concerns have been raised ■ Improper disposal of trash and public property. There is a need to establish relative to large increases in the number drinking are concerns at many public additional public put-in areas in order of recreationists using the area’s re- recreational areas along the Byway. to relieve the pressure on these pri- sources. Concerns were expressed that ■ The Deerfield River has heavy use by vate sites. There is a need to investi- increased use could threaten the long kayakers and white-water rafters, and gate publicly owned properties to term well-being of the recreational fa- further increase in use could ad- identify potential river access sites. A cilities and also strain the resources of versely impact water quality and wild- combination of creating new put-in the local communities’ where they are life habitats. locations and additional signage to located. Below are concerns that were ■ Some of the more rural communities direct canoeists/kayaks to the public discussed during the Corridor Manage- have noticed a dramatic increase in sites and away from private land ment Plan development process: the number of outdoor emergency could improve this problem. ■ Many visitors to the Byway area are rescues that occur each year. These ■ Existing canoe put-in and take-out unaware of the bounty of natural re- rescues generally involve inexperi- areas along the Deerfield River can sources upon which recreational tour- enced or over-confident recreationists become congested during peak use ism is based. who get lost hiking or get hurt white- times. ■ The Mohawk Trail Scenic Byway has water rafting or tubing. Concerns ■ State camping areas are often filled many outdoor recreational opportuni- were specifically expressed relative to to capacity on weekends during the ties. However, information pertaining the rental or selling of unlicensed wa- summer, particularly Mohawk Trail to recreational assets are scattered tercraft, particularly inflatable tubes. State Forest and Savoy Mountain among the many state, local, and pri- Local fire and ambulance companies State Forest, which are located the vate organizations that manage have limited resources and often rely closest to the Deerfield River them. There is not one comprehen- on volunteers. These companies are whitewater rafting tour companies. sive resource for recreational infor- already strained by the number of res- There are also lag times, like off-sea- mation. cues that they conduct, and they are son or midweek, when the parks are lightly used. This is an issue for park

60 MOHAWK TRAIL SCENIC BYWAY There are a number of facilities located Hiking in the Mohawk Trail Scenic Byway re- The Savoy Mountain State Forest has a gion that provide universal access to quarter mile long stabilized stone-dust certain recreational activities. trail traveling through woods and skirts the lake. The trail has benches Camping and views of the lake. Camping has been made more acces- sible to wheelchair users with desig- Picnicking nated hard-packed level sites featuring Picnic sites featuring wheelchair acces- pedestal grills and accessible picnic sible tables and pedestal grills are lo- tables at the Mohawk Trail State Forest cated at Mohawk Trail State Forest and and the Savoy Mountain State Forest. Savoy Mountain State Forest Fishing Scenic Vistas MassWildlife is currently in the design Mount Greylock State Reservation has phase of building a pier in Windsor specially designed handicapped acces- Pond in North Adams that would pro- sible scenic viewing areas. vide handicap access fishing.

supervisors, who are encouraged to number of commercial rafts at one located along the Byway. This increase annual revenues. time on the river, but due to limited campaign should include ways to ■ All lodging is often filled to capacity enforcement (not enough environ- minimize the potential negative with no alternative on the weekends. mental police and insignificant fines) impacts of visiting the great out- Mid week provides a critical option. they are not always well heeded. doors, by respecting the land and ■ There are no off-road bicycling/pedes- ■ Concern over the unpredictable water “treading softly.” This is important trian trails within the downtown areas level fluctuations on the Deerfield if the Byway becomes a way to in- of North Adams and Williamstown. River due to the water releases from troduce nature to those who are ■ The only existing off-road bicycling the dams for hydroelectric power pro- not normally “the outdoor type” trails, all of which are located in the duction. These releases can occur at and may never have hiked, biked, state forest and parks system, are in any time water level may rise quickly, or snowmobiled in forested areas rugged terrain and beyond the ca- and create dangerous conditions for before. pacity of many bicyclists and families. swimmers, fishing or playing near the —To minimize conflicts between hu- ■ Some sections of the Byway are a river. River users should be better in- mans and wildlife, remind visitors safety hazard to road biking. Sections formed about the possible changes in to control food waste and not to are littered with trash and shoulders water level and associated dangers purposely feed the animals. Ani- are rough and breaking up from lack via brochures, kiosks, and announce- mals that become accustomed to of maintenance. ments. people food can become pests and ■ There are limited parking areas for may need to be relocated or de- the Mahican-Mohawk Trail, which is Recommendations stroyed. one of the few east-west trails in the —Establish educational signs remind- ■ northeast. There is also a gap in the Compile, publish and distribute a ing visitors to stay on marked trails. trail between Shelburne and comprehensive guide to recreational —Incorporate this campaign into rec- Charlemont and west of North opportunities along and adjacent to reational tourism brochures and Adams. the Mohawk Trail Scenic Byway. In- materials for the Mohawk Trail by clude safety information, particularly ■ Concerns about use of ORVs in state suggesting ways to minimize visitor forest on trails and roads that are not related to water, in this guide. impacts to the environment. ■ designated for such use. There needs Expand the ways in which visitors can —Local conservation and recre- to be more information made avail- become more aware of the natural ational groups should coordinate able to the public on ORV use restric- resources that are the basis for the tions and where it is permitted. abundance of outdoor recreational facilities along the Byway. ■ There is a law prohibiting alcohol con- sumption on the Upper Deerfield —Develop an educational campaign River and also law that limits the on the bountiful natural resources

CHAPTER 4: Outdoor Recreational Resources 61