Appalachian Trail
The Great Outdoors
As the leaves begin to change and the swimming season wanes, thoughts turn to another wonderful way to enjoy the natural surroundings: hiking. This mode of activity affords many benefits including the opportunity to commune with nature, vigorous or moderate exercise (depending on the pace) and picnics accompanied by breathtaking vistas.
One of the advantages to living in the Berkshires is the easy accessibility to one of America’s gems: The Appalachian Trail. The trail meanders throughout approximately 2,200 miles of wilderness, about 700 of which are located in New England. It begins in Georgia and finishes in Maine. This statement alone has inspired untold numbers of people to rise to the challenge of completing the journey. These intrepid souls are known as thru-hikers. For a humorous and instructive read on this topic, check out Bill Bryson’s “A Walk in the Woods.”
On the trail at Bull’s Bridge in Kent, follow the signature white swathes of paint marking the Appalachian Trail. The covered bridge dates from around 1842 and is not related to the four-legged animal of the same name. It was named, instead, for Isaac and Jacob Bull who established an ironworks operation at this site in 1760. The reward for this hike is the gushing waterfall, especially magnificent after a rainy season. The Kent Land Trust is in the process of acquiring a large portion of the land at Bull’s Bridge in order to preserve it for future generations.
Next stop, Pine Knob Trail. This path near West Cornwall connects with the Appalachian Trail. One amazing feature of Pine Knob is that by completing this loop, two peaks of 1,120 and 1,160 feet will have been covered. Needless to say, this hike is rated moderate to strenuous. Effort will be rewarded by stunning vistas.
Just north of Salisbury, lies the very popular Undermountain Trail, which also leads up to the Appalachian Trail. This one starts out innocently enough, with relatively even terrain. The uphill trek which follows is mostly gradual and rewarding. Allocate plenty of time to admire the view from the summit. Then, take heart - the return trip is all downhill.
Checklist: good shoes, insect repellent, tons of water and snacks including the most appropriate one of all: trail mix. Pack and enjoy!