Adventuring Along the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail

   

Big puffy clouds over a smooth
expanse of water and distant mountains.

    The most beautiful rail trail in Massachusetts is in the Berkshires. The Ashuwillticook Rail Trail travels 12.7 miles from the Berkshire Mall at its southern end, northward through the town of Adams and a mile beyond. Along the way mountains are visible on either side and wide expanses of water provide delightful scenery while passing through the town of Cheshire.

    Last week I rode the northern section from Cheshire through Adams for the first time. What a treat! Where else can you ride a bike along a gently rushing river for several miles? This year's heavy rain has given the Hoosac River a lively energy. You can follow it through wetlands and below mossy cliff faces as it races along through the woods, then out into bright sunny meadows north of Adams.  

A bike parked along a fence with view
of river running through field.

  In Adams the river is channeled between concrete walls, where previously it had been bound only by nature. Even so, there was a surprising amount of bird life - in the form of ducks and egrets - taking advantage of respite and food provided along this urban influenced section.

    The Ashuwillticook Rail Trail is a former railroad bed so the grades are flat to mild. The trail's ten foot width was repaved in the last year or two so the whole ride is delightfully smooth. Mid-week it was surprisingly uncrowded, though the southern half  of the trail is usually busier. Along the way you'll find many benches, seasonal restroom facilities, picnic tables, a scenic park between two reservoirs, a pub, and the Berkshires Visitor Center. There are several areas to park and access the trail along it's length.  Click here for a trail map.     

An empty bench between the river and paved bike path.

                 If you haven't yet made your way to this glorious area of Massachusetts, maybe it's time! If not now, plan a visit this fall! If you are interested in railroad history or need a break from the weather, Western Gateway Heritage State Park is a few miles up the road in North Adams. And if you are up for even more adventure, drive up Mt. Greylock, Massachusetts's tallest mountain which overlooks the rail trail experience at it's base. At the top you'll find a beautiful stone lodge with refreshments and a quarter mile accessible trail with incredible views.

    DCR (Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation) advocates for people to be mindful of the pandemic situation and follow current safe practices outlined by the CDC and Massachusetts Department of Public Health.