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Best difficult hikes in Hampshire County
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Best difficult hikes in Hampshire County

Got your game face on? These difficult hikes are designed for hikers who are looking for a serious adventure.

Here are some great hikes to explore in Hampshire County.

Most popular hikes

1

Difficult

Robert Frost Trail

Hampshire County, Massachusetts · star 4.7 (17) · 61.7 km · Est. 4 days

2

Difficult

Mount Holyoke via NET-MandM Trail

Hampshire County, Massachusetts · star 4.6 (15) · 4.3 km · Est. 1 hrs 15 min

3

Difficult

Mount Holyoke via Bare Mountain Trail

Hampshire County, Massachusetts · star 4.4 (15) · 17.0 km · Est. 4 hrs 48 min

4

Difficult

Lower Hadley Reservoir and Upper Hadley Reservoir Loop

Hampshire County, Massachusetts · star 4.4 (18) · 4.1 km · Est. 1 hrs 6 min

5

Difficult

Bare Mountain and Mount Hitchcock Loop

Hampshire County, Massachusetts · star 4.7 (23) · 6.0 km · Est. 1 hrs 41 min

6

Difficult

Dry Knoll via Metacomet - Monadnock Trail

Hampshire County, Massachusetts · star 4.5 (17) · 3.1 km · Est. 57 min

7

Difficult

Hitchcock and Bare Mountain Loop

Hampshire County, Massachusetts · star 4.5 (16) · 4.6 km · Est. 1 hrs 22 min

8

Difficult

Running Gutter - Horse Mountain

Hampshire County, Massachusetts · star 4.5 (15) · 2.9 km · Est. 51 min

9

Difficult

Glendale Brook Trail via Clark Wright Road

Hampshire County, Massachusetts · star 4.3 (21) · 514 m · Est. 10 min

10

Difficult

Mount Holyoke, Mount Hitchcock Bare and Mountain from Metacomet Monadnock Trail

Hampshire County, Massachusetts · star 4.7 (19) · 8.6 km · Est. 2 hrs 33 min

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Reviews for difficult hikes in Hampshire County

avatar

Robert Frost Trail

t davies · reviewed almost 5 years ago

star star star star star

fantastic, far better than expected. i'm a local and i found so many new wonderful places along the route. did it north to south in 2 days as far as Lawrence Swamp area. it was a bit longer per day than would be ideal.

Antoine Mitchell avatar

Mount Holyoke via NET-MandM Trail

ExplorerTrailmaster56 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Latisha Quitzon Sr. avatar

Mount Holyoke via Bare Mountain Trail

HarborSkiwanderer70 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Carl Klein avatar

Lower Hadley Reservoir and Upper Hadley Reservoir Loop

TrekkerMeadowwalker60 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Ms. Cara Grady avatar

Bare Mountain and Mount Hitchcock Loop

RockyAdventureguide72 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Hampshire County

What is the climate like for hiking in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts showcases a varied climate that shapes the hiking experience across seasons. Spring (March-May) offers cooler temperatures and budding vegetation, though trails can be muddy from snowmelt. Summer (June-August) presents warm, sunny days perfect for hiking, but hydration is crucial due to the heat.
Fall (September-November) is ideal for hiking with moderate temperatures and stunning fall colors. Winter (December-February) provides serene snowy landscapes for well-equipped hikers. Autumn is often recommended for the most comfortable hiking experience. Always check the weather before setting out. The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (https://www.mass.gov/orgs/department-of-conservation-recreation) and the National Weather Service (https://www.weather.gov/) are excellent resources.

Do I need a permit to hike in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, most hiking trails are open to the public without requiring permits. However, for certain activities such as camping or fishing, you may need a permit. To obtain permits and get further information, contact the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (https://www.mass.gov/orgs/department-of-conservation-recreation).

Is wild camping allowed in Massachusetts?

Wild camping in Massachusetts is generally restricted to designated campgrounds within state parks and forests. Some areas may require a camping permit. To protect the natural environment, always follow Leave No Trace principles. For camping regulations and permit information, visit the Department of Conservation and Recreation's website (https://www.mass.gov/orgs/department-of-conservation-recreation).

Are there mountain rescue services in Massachusetts?

In case of emergencies during hiking in Massachusetts, dial 911 to reach local authorities who will coordinate with the appropriate agencies for mountain rescue. The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation's Park Watch Program is also involved in rescue efforts. Visit their website for more information (https://www.mass.gov/orgs/department-of-conservation-recreation).

Are there dangerous plants in Massachusetts?

Hiking in Massachusetts, you'll find a variety of flora including oak, maple, and pine trees, along with a diverse array of wildflowers. Be aware of poison ivy, especially in wooded areas. For more on Massachusetts' flora, the Native Plant Trust's Go Botany website (https://gobotany.nativeplanttrust.org/) is a helpful resource.

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Massachusetts?

Hikers in Massachusetts might encounter white-tailed deer, squirrels, and a variety of bird species. Be mindful of ticks and mosquitoes during the warmer months. Black bears are present, though encounters are rare. The Massachusetts Division of Fisheries & Wildlife (https://www.mass.gov/orgs/division-of-fisheries-and-wildlife) provides useful wildlife information.

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