SUSTAINING MEMBERS ONLY: Daniels Mountain Hike

Twenty-two members reached Moon Ledge with wide views into Massachusetts and Vermont!

Under patchy fog and hot/humid conditions, twenty-two members set off from MountainSide Campground to Moon Ledge, led by Mike and Dave from MountainSide. We started off following abandoned roads in the campground that including hopping over and around some downed trees, some which were large. There were not any blazes but Mike and Dave knew where they were going. Orange salamanders were meandering about due to the humidity, Indian Pipe were to be seen and we were occasionally walking below towering hemlocks making it feel like we were in an old growth forest. Craig was uncertain about making the climb so when he saw there were no blazes to follow if he decided to turn around, he decided to turn around within ten minutes of us beginning.

We eventually reached Plain Road and the start of an official trail: Bear Mountain Connector. The hike was approximately 2 miles round trip with 529 feet elevation gain. The trail was blazed with white diamonds and was very well marked throughout including directional arrows.

After the road, the trail had some steep sections, some of it rough over broken rock. Nonetheless we all made good work of it, with heart rates starting to increase and the humidity starting to make us sweat. About ten minutes after leaving the road, Luis was not up for it and Mike kindly offered to hike back with him. The patchy fog was breaking and as we climbed higher, we found ourselves under sunny skies! Phil struggled a bit. Jon made him a hiking stick that helped. We kept encouraging him and yes, he made it! Good job, Phil!!!

Moon Ledge is a grassy clearing on the south side of the mountain presenting a wide view into Massachusetts and Vermont; and we could clearly see the MountainSide Campground field surrounded by forest. Rick quickly left after reaching the summit due to a concern of slipping and holding back the group. We took a nice long break here soaking in the views, drinking water, snacking and enjoy each other’s company. If I recall correctly, there was even a refreshing breeze!

We returned the way we came up and it was rather easy since it was downhill. The hike was a good opportunity to talk with members we had not yet spoken to and get to know them.

Everyone was very friendly and supportive, which is what GayOutdoors is about!

We will be hiking right from the campground to the Bear Mt. Connector that leaves from Plain Road. We are returning the same way we hiked in. Approximately 2 miles round trip with a 529 feet elevation gain that should take up 2 hours to complete. This trail is the quickest way to Moon Ledge on Daniels Mountain. The trail is blazed with white diamonds and is decently marked throughout. This trail doesn't seem to see a lot of use as the path isn't very well worn. There are sections that can be a bit steep. Moon Ledge is a grassy clearing on the south side of the mountain presents a wide view into Massachusetts and Vermont; and we’ll be able to see the MountainSide Campground property as well!

Be sure to bring appropriate gear such as water, snacks, and whatever else you need for a short hike. We’ll be having lunch back at the campground.