Pittsfield State Forest Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation Taconic Crest Southern Terminus Trailhead

Lebanon Mountain Road, Hancock, MA

About Taconic Crest Southern Terminus Trailhead

The Taconic Crest Trail is a mid-distance hiking trail between Pittsfield State Forest and southern Vermont. Upon arriving at the parking lot, visitors will see the southern terminus of the Taconic Crest Trail. Overall, this trailhead is an excellent launch point for an enjoyable day of outdoor recreation in the Berkshires.

Leaving the parking lot, hikers will ascend through a maple forest. Eventually, after nearly two miles, the trail arrives at scenic views of several ponds. Many local wildlife species, including amphibians and dragonflies, thrive in this environment throughout spring and summer. Following the ponds, the trail then heads north toward Tower Mountain and Berry Pond.

Pittsfield State Forest is a large park on the west side of Pittsfield. Overall, visitors will have several options for an excellent day of outdoor recreation in Western Massachusetts. Visitors can go camping, hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding throughout the summer. The wintertime, meanwhile, offers opportunities to go cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Many trails are open for ATVs and snowmobiles. The forest is also available for hunting during the appropriate seasons. 

Visitors will find parking in a vehicle pull-off area along westbound Route 20. There are picnic tables at the parking area, perfect for a lunchtime pitstop. Further west along Route 20, visitors will find additional parking for OHVs.