Peru State Forest Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation Garnet Hill Trail - Curtin Road

Curtin Road, Peru, MA

About Garnet Hill Trail - Curtin Road

The Garnet Hill Trail is a moderate hiking trail along the old Garnet Hill Road. The trail is best known for providing access to the crash site of an Army transport aircraft from 1942. While no remnants of the crash itself remain, a memorial has been erected in honor of the 16 paratroopers lost in the crash. In addition to the monument, the trail summits Garnet Hill, a meadow-like clearing at almost 2,200 feet with views of the Berkshires poking through the trees.

From the Curtin Road Trailhead, hikers can ascend an old forest road for roughly three-quarters of a mile before reaching a trail that leads to the memorial site. A brown trail sign indicates the entrance to this path, and small American flags mark the way once on the trail. This short out-and-back follows a boggy footpath, reaching the memorial in about a quarter of a mile. After returning to the Garnet Hill Trail, hikers ascend another half mile to the summit, where they can enjoy the shaded open space and take in the views. A few log benches and rocky outcrops provide solid spots to relax, as many enjoy picnicking before starting their descent. A diverse collection of wildlife calls the Peru State Forest home, with large mammals like black bears, deer, and coyotes being notably prevalent. Hunting is common deeper into the forest, while wildlife viewing and birding are great activities for visitors sticking to the trail.

Those looking to extend their journey can continue west along the Garnet Hill Trail, which descends more steeply down a system of unmarked trails toward Middlefield Road. Since this area is challenging to navigate and contains tricky terrain, it is best suited for adventurous visitors who want to explore the rugged wilderness of Western Massachusetts. In the winter, these trails (including the Garnet Hill Trail) are suitable for snowmobiling since they are relatively wide. Additionally, snowshoeing is a great way to navigate the area and take in the beauty of a forest blanketed in snow.

This trailhead is found on Curtin Road, a rough dirt road that bisects the Peru State Forest. Visitors should note that the road is not maintained or plowed in the winter. A parking area on the side of the road has space for a couple of vehicles.