Things to Do in Hancock, MA

Things to Do in Hancock, MA
Hancock, on the Massachusetts border near New York, is nestled among several state parks in the scenic Berkshire Mountains. A stretch of the Appalachian Trail runs through the Berkshires, also home to fishing, hiking and camping, kayaking, and nature tours. The Berkshires is popular among city dwellers who want to witness the changing colors of the leaves in the fall.

Hancock Shaker Village

The Hancock Shaker Village was founded in 1783 and was a functioning, active Shaker community for almost two centuries. The village has 20 original buildings, including the circular Round Stone Barn, which was built in 1826. Guided and self-guided tours are available. The village is open year-round and offers seasonal events.

Hancock Shaker Village
1843 W. Housatonic St.
Pittsfield, Massachusetts 01201
800-817-1137
hancockshakervillage.org

Northeast Fly-fishing on the Deerfield River

The Deerfield River, in the northwest corner of Massachusetts, is home to excellent fishing. Locals favor drift-fishing, floating comfortably in a boat while fly-fishing. Northeast Fly Fishing offers group and individual guided trips along the Deerfield River, floating among the five area dams and fishing for a variety of trout, including rainbow and tiger as well as striped bass. The trips provide expert advice and favored flies, lunch and refreshments. Drift-fishing on the Deerfield River is also an excellent way to take in the countryside.

Northeast Fly Fishing Guide Service
38 Elm St.
Hatfield, Massachusetts 01038
413-247-5579
neffguide.com/ma.html

Mt. Greylock State Park

Mt. Greylock, in the Berkshire Mountains, is the highest point in Massachusetts. It is also the state's first wilderness park. Bascom Lodge, a rustic stone and timber lodge, is located on the mountain's peak. The park contains an 11.5-mile stretch of the famous Appalachian Trail, and the only camping in the park are primitive sites accessible only by trail. The camping season is from April to November. Outside the camping season, camping is permitted and is free, but you must inform park administration of your presence. During the winter months, the park is also home to cross-country skiers and snowmobilers.

Mt. Greylock State Park Visitors Center
30 Rockwell Rd.
Lanesborough, Massachusetts 01237
413-499-4262
mass.gov/dcr/parks/mtGreylock

Article Written By Beau Prichard

Beau Prichard has been a freelance writer and editor since 1999. He specializes in fiction, travel and writing coaching. He has traveled in the United Kingdom, Europe, Mexico and Australia. Prichard grew up in New Zealand and holds a Bachelor of Arts in writing from George Fox University.

Write for Trails.com
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