Mt. Washington Forest, Berkshires, MA

Wind chills, cold temps and record low’s might have kept some indoors today, not me.  I watched the forecast, listened intently, checked the weather websites and decided I could brave the elements and make a day of it.  I had three participants signed up for this short hike but in the end it was just me.  This marked a milestone of sorts – my first solo hike – and it was on the coldest day of the year!

I got to the trailhead a little early, I checked the temperature – a balmy 10 degrees – and finished suiting up – it was going to be a brisk but rewarding hike.  I hit the trail at 9:30am.  After taking my first photo, I realized I left the memory card at home – my camera’s internal memory is rather short – so each picture had to count – sorry there are not many.

Snow cover was light – 5 inches at best.  Recent snows of central Massachusetts which blanketed my neck of the woods with 20 inches didn’t reach that far west.  I still used my microspikes and headed up the Mt. Alander Trail, a short 2.5 miles and 790 foot ascent.  This trail and forest was beautiful.  Lots of evergreens, some open space and an amazing field of mountain laurel shrubs – in every direction – I can only imagine how beautiful that must be when they are in bloom.  I was struck by the vast number and size of hemlocks – one of my more favorite evergreens.  The climb was easy, gradual and I never felt like I was exerting myself.  A handful of places might be considered “steep” but they were short lived.  I sported my heaviest winter gear, never broke a sweat and was as warm as a baby cuddled in flannel sheets.  Was it cold outside – you bet, but where was the wind-chill?  I didn’t care, I seemed to be nestled and protected by the trees.

Along the way up someone drew a smiley face - made me smile!  As promised, I found “The Cabin” which was occupied by some overnight guests.  I did not disturb them and continued on my way.  I arrived at the summit of Mt. Alander at approximately 11am.  I took a few photos and took in the views.  Off in the distance I thought I saw clouds – indeed the views disappeared shortly after arrival as a snow squall came down – quite beautiful – nothing intense.  I decided to have an early lunch at the summit and drink my hot apple cider. 

It was still early, I was energized and it was time to turn back.  Continuing on the South Taconic Trail was not the plan and that detour seemed longer than I was prepared for.  On my way down I decided to cut over on the Campground Trail to Ashley Hill Brook Trail, it gave me an little more trail time – but more importantly – the trail had not been walked so it was mine to make.  It was very easy to follow – quite beautiful and serene.  Aside from the cabin occupants, I was the only one on the trail.

At the junction of Campground & Ashley is a tricky water crossing – the ice formations were quite amazing but because of them, the rocks were well hidden – was it snow, rock, or ice – I didn’t know.  I didn’t trust the ice bridges so I cut upstream a short distance and found a nice crossing – better to skip over rocks I think.

My short excursion in Mt. Washington Forest gives me reason to return.  There are longer hikes and points of view to visit and experience.  I arrived back at the car at 1:30pm after having hiked roughly 5.5 miles.  Not the longest of hikes, four hours, but I enjoyed the stroll through the forest and the peace and serenity that comes with it.  I passed two couples making their way up as I was exiting.  The temperature had fallen to 6 degrees, yeah it was cold but I could have walked on for many more miles.

We work hard during the week – and we all need a break.  It is important to escape the daily grind and just let go….  In these moments I feel so very much alive… today was no exception.   Until next time…

Join me Saturday, February 13th, for a day of exploration along the Alander Mountain Trail, a moderate hike, at the other Mt. Washington, The Berkshires, MA.

Mt. Washington State Forest is located in the Berkshires along the New York, Connecticut & Massachusetts border.  The Alander trail offers scenic views of the Berkshires and promises a roaring brook and mixed woodlands before reaching the summit at 2,250’.

We will assemble at Park Headquarters at 9:45am and promptly start the hike at 10:00am.  We’ll hike up the Alander trail to the summer of Alander Mountain, approx. 2.5 miles and an elevation gain of 790’.  At the summit we’ll take in the views, lunch (conditions permitting) and meander back the way we came to Park Headquarters, total day approximately 5 miles.  For more information about the park and a brief history, go to:  http://berkshirehiking.com/hikes/mt_wash_forest.html

It has been a mild winter though I’m delighted to experience some colder temps and light snow cover this weekend (January 18).  Predicting trail conditions can be difficult but I would expect light snow cover and the possibility of ice, so bring traction such as micro spikes.  A major snowfall by February 13th will mandate the need for snow shoes – I eagerly anticipate!  If you’ve been tempted to try winter hiking – this may be your opportunity!

It is February and temps will likely hover at or below freezing.  Water should be packed in wide mouth bottles. The Camelback tubes/Hydration devices freeze up (I learned the hard way) at 32 degrees even with insulation ~ do not bring them.  Insulated wide mouth bottles is the way to go and two liters of water should get you through the day.  A small thermos with hot apple cider to drink while having lunch is quite the treat.  No cotton and dress in layers – layering is the key to staying warm.

Friday or Saturday Night Lodging Option:  The forest is 2 hours west from my home in Spencer, MA. Depending on where you are coming from, my home is a nice mid-point.  We will rise at 6:30am, have coffee, bagels and carpool leaving my home at 7:45am sharp.  We’ll get to Park HQ for 9:45am and assemble.  I have two bedrooms each with one queen size bed.  Single or double occupancy works, your preference.  I have all linens/blankets/towels and can accommodate up to 4 people.  If sleeping on the floor and air pad is your thing, I can squeeze up to 6 people; don’t forget your sleeping bag.  First come, first served.  For this trip there is a $20 charge for Friday night and $25 for Saturday.  On Saturday evening we’ll enjoy a nice meal and relax by the fire.  Snack’s to share is always good and if you desire spirits of any kind, you’ll need to bring your own – moderation is always a good thing.  I’ll send directions as part of the trip reminder closer to the date.