Diane's Trail Trailhead

Curtis Road, Monterey, MA 01245, Monterey, MA

About Diane's Trail Trailhead

This trailhead provides access to Diane's Trail, a 1.5-mile trail that follows the Rawson Brook and meanders through a serene forest. This family-friendly trail is an easy walk through the woods of Gould Farm, a therapeutic community that helps its guests find their sense of purpose by connecting them to nature. Diane's Trail is how Gould Farm extends its mission to the public, as it offers a reflective escape into nature and abundant space to quietly take in the surroundings. Whether visiting as a family looking to explore the outdoors together or as an individual looking to connect with nature, this hidden gem of the Berkshires has something to offer everyone.

The wetland habitat along the Rawson Brook offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Mammals such as deer, otters, and beavers roam the grounds, and a diverse collection of bird species makes birding an attractive way to enjoy the trail. The forest showcases a variety of trees that have grown undisturbed for decades, fostering a vibrant ecosystem for wildlife. Additionally, the intact canopies make the trail almost entirely shaded, making it an attractive space to escape the summer sun while remaining outdoors.

Diane's Trail is an excellent place to explore the outdoors at any time of year. In the fall, it is a must-visit stop on a fall foliage trip through Western Massachusetts. In the winter, snowshoeing is popular on the trail's mellow terrain. Pets are permitted as long as they are leashed. Parking can be found in a dedicated lot on Curtis Road a few hundred feet from the trailhead.