South of Williamstown, Massachusetts’ tallest peak is the centerpiece of 12,500-acre Mount Greylock State Reservation, one of the state’s largest and most popular possessions. More than 50 miles of trails, including some thigh-burning mountain-bike routes, wander along the reforested slopes, most of which were heavily logged for fuel and pulp back in the 19th century. Rock ledges provide great views of the Hoosic River Valley to the east and the Housatonic Valley to the south, when the namesake mists aren’t keeping the 3,491-foot summit wadded up in a damp ball of dingy cotton. During warm months access is a cinch: Century-old Notch Road snakes its way up through the birch and spruce from Route 2 on the north side, while Rockwell Road ascends more gently from US-7 along the flanks of Greylock’s southern neighbors. Combine these roads’ 17 miles and you’ll enjoy the most scenic, driveable mountain ascent in New England, although keep in mind that both roads are narrow, rumble-stripped with frost-heaves, enlivened by occasional hairpin turns, and—especially at dusk—prone to wandering wildlife. If you want to see over the forest, climb the 105-foot War Memorial Tower on the summit. If the weather is good, you’ll have a panoramic view from New Hampshire to Connecticut.
A stone’s throw from the granite tower is the AMC’s Bascom Lodge (mid-May–late Oct. only; $40 and up; 413/443-0011), a beautiful old stone and timber structure with private rooms, shared bunk rooms, and cold-water baths.
