Father Loop Trailhead

Mountain Road, Alford, MA

About Father Loop Trailhead

The Father Loop Trail is a 4-mile hiking, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing trail in Alford Springs. The double-track trail leaves directly from the parking lot and heads through a dense forest. Eventually, after curving toward the north, the pathway crosses a quiet stream and climbs a steep hill. Visitors will then reach a trail junction, marking the loop's beginning and end. Going straight, visitors will trek through a tranquil grove of birch trees and pass a small overlook. Then, the trail will arrive at a site of recent timber harvesting. This site, now an expansive meadow, offers scenic views of the surrounding Berkshires. On clear days, visitors can see Mount Greylock rising toward the north. There is also an abundance of local wildlife species, including butterflies and songbirds.

After the meadow, the trail will descend to an elevated ridgeline and travel to a small bench at the junction with the Mother Loop. Visitors can continue on the Mother Loop and access additional overlooks toward the west, or they can ascend back to the beginning of the Father Loop.

A large parking lot for the Father Loop Trail is at the end of Mountain Road. Alford Springs is a BNRC property that is open for hunting during the appropriate Western Massachusetts seasons.