Appalachian Trail - Goose Pond Road
Appalachain Trail Corridor
Tyringham, MA
Hiking
Tyringham Cobble, managed by the Trustees of Reservations, offers a brisk yet spectacular hiking opportunity in the Tyringham Valley. Upon arrival, visitors are immediately greeted by an open meadow with a view of Cobble Hill. Wildlife enthusiasts know this meadow as the perfect spot for birding, while others see it as a family-friendly picnic space. Heading through this meadow is the Cobble Loop, a two-mile loop offering hikers two ways to reach the peak of Cobble Hill. To the right is a more extended trip that circles the site's northern edge before connecting with the Appalachian Trail and ascending the summit. To the left is a shorter trail that begins an ascent immediately, connecting with the Appalachian Trail from the south side of the property. Both trails showcase the site's unusual rock formations, which puzzled an early geologist who suggested (incorrectly) that the hill was a broken fragment of a nearby mountain flipped upside-down. On the southern side of Cobble Hill is a sandstone monolith that bears a striking resemblance to a rabbit.
On completion of the 400-foot climb, hikers are greeted with a clearing in the trees facing east, which offers stunning views of the picturesque Western Massachusetts town of Tyringham. A picnic bench sits atop the summit, giving visitors a great spot to soak in the beauty of the Berkshires before they make their descent.
Before being donated to The Trustees, the property had been preserved by "The Cobblers." This group protected the site from development, which included shutting down a proposal to turn it into a ski area. The property is now protected into perpetuity for all to enjoy. Visitors can access Tyringham Cobble from a large parking lot on Jerusalem Road.
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.