Church Street Trailhead
Housatonic River Walk
Great Barrington, MA
Wildlife Viewing | Snowshoeing | Hiking
The Dresser Avenue Trailhead provides access to the Housatonic River Walk, a national recreation trail that follows the Housatonic River in downtown Great Barrington. Nestled into the fabric of one of the most lively small towns in Western Massachusetts, the River Walk provides residents and visitors with a greater appreciation of nature. Despite its downtown location, restoration efforts have returned the trail's surrounding environment to its natural state, granting visitors easy access to nature. This walking trail is mostly flat, and the steeper sections that climb up the river's embankment are equipped with stairs. Lining the trails are kiosks that identify trees and recount history. While the Dresser Avenue Trailhead is primarily used to access the River Walk's upstream section, a short walk from Dresser Avenue onto River Street provides access to the mellow downstream section of the trail. The River Walk is most popular in the summer, but it is also known for delivering beautiful riverside fall foliage from September through November.
At the Dresser Avenue Trailhead is a large public parking lot that provides direct access to the trail. The family-friendly environment makes the River Walk beloved by visitors and residents of all ages. The trail's short length makes it easy to fit the River Walk into a long day of exploring the Berkshires. The Dresser Avenue Trailhead is a common spot to park the car while checking out Great Barrington's vibrant downtown, and the River Walk is often used by people as they wait for a table at local restaurants.
Tell others about this place
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.