Hopkins Memorial Forest Williams College Carriage Road Trail

Northwest Hill Road, Williamstown, MA

About Carriage Road Trail

This is a trailhead for the Carriage Road Trail, which leads hikers into Hopkins Memorial Forest. The path starts flat and wide, traveling through an expansive forest ecosystem. Eventually, the trail passes alongside wetland habitats before reaching the Upper Loop Trail: a moderate hike with beautiful views of Hemlock Brook. Many Western Massachusetts wildlife species are often visible from the path, including chipmunks, owls, and salamanders. Then, from the Upper Loop Trail, visitors can access the remainder of Hopkins Forest, which spans from the Taconic Crest to the Hoosic River.

Hopkins Memorial Forest is a 2600-acre property owned by Williams College. The trails are available for horseback riding and hiking throughout the year, and the reserve is open for hunting during white-tailed deer season in the Berkshires. Hunters should contact Hopkins Memorial Forest for permission.

There is no designated parking area for this trailhead. Visitors should park along the side of Northwest Hill Road where safe. The forest annually holds a free MapleFest for visitors and community members in the early spring. There is also a Fall Festival when the colors change in autumn.