AMC AT Connector Trailhead
Appalachain Trail Corridor
Mount Washington, MA
Snowshoeing | Hiking
Van der Smissen Memorial Park Hatch Hill Road, Mount Washington, MA
Managed by
Van der Smissen Memorial Trust
Allowed Uses & Features
Information
- Family Friendly
- Free
- Low Visitation
- Picnicking
- Water Access
- Water Views
View of a small pond in the park from Hatch Hill Road.
- Public Land
- Private Land
- Bus Route
- Trail
- Major Trail
About Van der Smissen Memorial Park
Van der Smissen Memorial Park is a family-friendly picnic and swimming area in Mount Washington. Visitors will find a grassy area and a small pond, which has been dredged to create a sandy bottom. On hot days in the Berkshires, this swimming hole is ideal for a quick pitstop after a day of hiking. Families can swim and eat lunch alongside the pond's waters. Tall spruce trees surround the pond, providing a cold layer of shade. The surrounding forest also offers opportunities to see local Western Massachusetts wildlife species. Songbirds, for example, often fly over the pond throughout spring and summer. There is also an artificial waterfall that echoes throughout the park and creates a soothing feeling.
Van der Smissen Memorial Park does not have designated parking. Visitors should park in a grassy area off West Road, near the swimming area. Dogs are not permitted.
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Accessibility Assessment
There are no accessible features at this location.
Van Der Smissen Memorial Park can be accessed directly from Hatch Hill Road, with a small flat gravel parking area for two cars provided. Access to swimming is through a small, uneven sandy beach. The other area around the pond is grass, with small sections of shade.
Clubs, Retail & Rentals
Looking to meet up with others for team sports or group activities? Check out our list of clubs, guides and leagues in the Berkshires on the Resources page. Our list of summer camps will help you plan an overnight or day camp adventure for your young ones.
We also link to an array of outdoor recreation retail shops for gear and rental facilities for equipment on the Gear page.
