Outdoor Activities in The Berkshires

Top Outdoor Activities in The Berkshires

The Berkshires is a beautiful region located in western Massachusetts that is known for its scenic beauty, outdoor recreation, and cultural attractions. If you’re looking for things to do outdoors in The Berkshires, you’re in luck! There are a variety of outdoor activities to choose from, no matter what your interests may be. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top outdoor activities in The Berkshires, along with their distances from The Stockbridge Country Inn.

Hiking
Hiking is one of the most popular outdoor activities in The Berkshires, thanks to the region’s beautiful trails and stunning views. One popular hiking destination is Mount Greylock, which is the highest peak in Massachusetts. The summit offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a must-see for anyone visiting The Berkshires. The distance from The Stockbridge Country Inn to Mount Greylock is approximately 25 miles.

Another popular hiking spot is Monument Mountain, which offers a variety of trails for hikers of all levels. The views from the summit are equally as impressive, with panoramic vistas of the Housatonic River Valley. The distance from The Stockbridge Country Inn to Monument Mountain is approximately 5 miles.

Biking
If you prefer to explore The Berkshires on two wheels, biking is a great option. The region is home to a number of scenic bike routes, ranging from easy, family-friendly rides to challenging mountain biking trails. One popular route is the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail, which stretches for 11 miles through picturesque countryside and small towns. The trail is paved and relatively flat, making it an easy ride for all skill levels. The distance from The Stockbridge Country Inn to the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail is approximately 20 miles.

For more challenging mountain biking, head to Pittsfield State Forest, which offers a variety of trails for experienced riders. The forest covers more than 11,000 acres, with trails ranging from easy to difficult. The distance from The Stockbridge Country Inn to Pittsfield State Forest is approximately 10 miles.

Fishing
The Berkshires is home to some of the best fishing in the Northeast, with numerous lakes, streams, and rivers offering opportunities to catch a variety of fish species. One popular spot is the Housatonic River, which is known for its trout and smallmouth bass populations. Other popular fishing destinations include Laurel Lake, Pontoosuc Lake, and Onota Lake. The distance from The Stockbridge Country Inn to the Housatonic River is approximately 2 miles.

Kayaking and Canoeing
Kayaking and canoeing are great ways to explore The Berkshires’ many waterways. There are a variety of outfitters in the region that offer rentals and guided tours, making it easy to get out on the water. The Housatonic River is a popular spot for kayaking and canoeing, as are Stockbridge Bowl and Lake Mahkeenac. The distance from The Stockbridge Country Inn to Stockbridge Bowl is approximately 2 miles.

Golfing
The Berkshires is home to a number of excellent golf courses, with options for golfers of all skill levels. One popular course is the Cranwell Spa & Golf Resort, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The course is known for its challenging layout, with water hazards and bunkers throughout. Other popular courses include Wyantenuck Country Club and Stockbridge Golf Club. The distance from The Stockbridge Country Inn to the Cranwell Spa & Golf Resort is approximately 3 miles.

Horseback Riding
For a unique outdoor experience, consider taking a horseback ride through The Berkshires’ scenic countryside. There are a number of stables and riding schools in the region that offer guided rides for riders of all levels. One popular destination is Undermountain Farm, which offers scenic trail rides through the forest and countryside. The distance from The Stockbridge Country Inn to Undermountain Farm is approximately 20 miles.

Skiing and Snowboarding
During the winter months, The Berkshires become a playground for skiers and snowboarders. The region is home to several ski resorts, including Jiminy Peak and Bousquet Mountain. Jiminy Peak offers a variety of trails for skiers and snowboarders of all levels, as well as a terrain park for freestyle enthusiasts. Bousquet Mountain is a smaller, family-friendly resort that offers affordable lift tickets and lessons. The distance from The Stockbridge Country Inn to Jiminy Peak is approximately 25 miles.

Rock Climbing
If you’re looking for a challenge, consider trying your hand at rock climbing in The Berkshires. The region offers several excellent climbing destinations, including Rose Ledge, a popular spot for both beginner and experienced climbers. Other popular climbing destinations include Farley Ledge and Chapel Ledges. The distance from The Stockbridge Country Inn to Rose Ledge is approximately 15 miles.

Ziplining
For a thrill-seeking adventure, try ziplining through the forests of The Berkshires. One popular ziplining destination is Berkshire East Mountain Resort, which offers several zipline tours that soar through the treetops. The tours range in length and difficulty, making it a great activity for families and adventurers alike. The distance from The Stockbridge Country Inn to Berkshire East Mountain Resort is approximately 50 miles.

Birdwatching
The Berkshires is a popular destination for birdwatchers, thanks to its diverse range of bird species and habitats. Some popular birdwatching spots include Mount Greylock State Reservation, which is home to a variety of bird species, including the rare Bicknell’s Thrush. Other popular birdwatching destinations include Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary and the Canoe Meadows Wildlife Sanctuary. The distance from The Stockbridge Country Inn to Mount Greylock State Reservation is approximately 25 miles.

Conclusion

The Berkshires is a beautiful and diverse region that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike, a relaxing bike ride, or a thrilling zipline adventure, there are plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. So if you’re planning a trip to The Berkshires, be sure to include some of these top outdoor activities in your itinerary. And if you’re staying at The Stockbridge Country Inn, you’re in the perfect location to explore all that The Berkshires has to offer.