The Trustees of Reservations Bartholomew's Cobble

105 Weatogue Road, Sheffield, MA

About Bartholomew's Cobble

Bartholomew's Cobble is a serene 350-acre reservation on the border of Massachusetts and Connecticut managed by The Trustees of Reservations. The property has over five miles of hiking trails that showcase the diverse ecosystem of Western Massachusetts, with open fields, forests, marshes, caves, and more. The most popular trail is the Tractor Path, which ascends 350 feet up Hurlburt's Hill to a scenic vista with panoramic views of the Housatonic River Valley. Atop Hurlburt's Hill, visitors meet a sloped 20-acre grassy field facing the famous views, making it an excellent picnic area. While relaxing on the hill, birding can be a fun way to observe the property's wildlife, including the Commonwealth's largest population of ground-nesting bobolinks. The trail's end is marked with multiple benches and an informational kiosk.

Away from Hurlburt's Hill, the property has many other fascinating spaces to explore. The Ledges Trail, whose trailhead is by the parking lot, is an easy half-mile loop around a cobble that adventurous visitors can explore up close by taking the Craggy Knoll Trail or Cedar Hill Trail. For those looking to get near the water, the Bailey and Spero Trails travel through the floodplain forest of the Housatonic River, passing through some of the wetlands that harbor vibrant wildlife and plant life, including some of North America's greatest diversities of ferns and one of the largest Cottonwood trees in Massachusetts. In fact, the preserve has the greatest overall biodiversity in the Berkshires. History buffs are encouraged to take the Hal Borland trail for an easy but serene walk to the Ashley House, another property of the Trustees that recounts the life of Elizabeth Freeman, who was enslaved in the house before winning her freedom by suing for emancipation, which ended slavery in the Commonwealth.

Any time of year, Bartholomew's Cobble provides visitors with fun outdoor adventures. In the winter, the property is ideal for snowshoeing as its elevation varies just the right amount for a rejuvenating, but not exhausting, excursion on the snow. The fall brings about some of the most colorful foliage in the area, while the spring showcases the peak bloom of the property's wildflowers. Bartholomew's Cobble is a popular running and jogging destination among locals, as the trails are well-maintained and clearly marked. In the summer, rangers lead guided canoe trips on the Housatonic River.

Parking for Bartholomew's Cobble is found on Weatogue Road in Sheffield, and directory signs exist along the way as visitors approach the site. The property provides restrooms, a visitors' center, and multiple picnic tables. Admission is $5 for adults and $1 for children (free for Trustees members). Please note that pets are prohibited to protect plants and wildlife.