Hiking in the Berkshires, MA

Hiking in the Berkshires

With lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and stunning mountain vistas, the Berkshires are a hiker's paradise. The region contains the state’s highest waterfall and tallest mountain, along with destination experiences like the Appalachian Trail and the Taconic Crest Trail, plus plenty of trail-less-traveled opportunities for tranquility.

  • Public Land
  • Private Land
  • Bus Route
  • Trail
  • Major Trail

What to know before you go

Did you know? A person trained in Leave No Trace principles is 5x more likely to protect nature. Take the 45-minute online course.

Ready for anything? Proper preparation is crucial when heading into the woods. Cell service is inconsistent in the Berkshires' hilly terrain, and weather can change quickly. Use this National Park Service article as a checklist, and download maps before you go.  Trail maps from DCR can be found here.

Feeling crowded? Some trails see a lot of foot traffic, especially in busier months. Check out our recommendations of lesser-known spots on the homepage, or use the "low visitation" filter to discover hidden gems.

Find your way. Download Berkshire Natural Resources Council's Berkshire Trails app or check out AllTrails for hiking inspiration (login required).

Please visit our SAFETY TIPS page before heading out to enjoy the Berkshires!

Clubs, Retail & Rentals

Looking to meet up with others for team sports or group activities? Check out our list of clubs and leagues in the Berkshires. We also link to an array of outdoor recreation resources: retail shops for gear, rental facilities for equipment, and guides to get you where you want to go! Our list of summer camps will help you plan an overnight or day camp adventure for your young ones.

Resources