Hammertown Road Trailhead North
Clam River
Sandisfield, MA
Hunting | Hiking | Cross-Country Skiing
The Sandisfield Road trailhead provides access to the Clam River Preserve in Sandisfield. With over 4.3 miles of forested trails, the preserve offers premier Berkshire hiking. The preserve's 550 acres includes areas of young forest habitats home to various bird species (such as the New England cottontail) that create unique birding opportunities for visitors. Adding to the beauty is the Clam River, which runs through the property and alongside several (portions of the) hiking trails.
Hammertown Loop, Wolf Pine, and Two Rivers Loop Trails run for miles within the preserve, offering slightly different forested landscapes and river views. However, the possibility of crossing a moose, deer, or bear is consistent on each trail. Trout can also be found in the river, and keen-eyed visitors may notice some grape vines in the preserve.
Clam River is named after the Eastern Pearlshell, freshwater mussels that live in the river. It runs into the Farmington River and was used similarly to power mills and tanneries during the 1800s. Many remnants of this industrial past exist along and within the Clam River and the preserve, which is now owned and managed by the Berkshire Natural Resources Council.
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.