“…a union of the picturesque, the sublime, and the magnificent.” - Thomas Cole
The Mount Holyoke Range is part of the Metacomet Ridge that extends from the Long Island Sound through Connecticut and Massachusetts up to the Vermont border. It's unique in that is one of the few mountain ranges in the United States that runs east-west.
A hike along the ridge line is a great introduction to your explorations of the Connecticut River Valley. Cliff top viewpoints provide excellent spots to relax and soak in the abundance of open space and greenery in the valley. The scenery was the inspiration for Thomas Cole’s 1836 painting “The Oxbow,” which hangs in the New York Metropolitan Museum of Art collection.
The seven-mile hike starts at the State Park Headquarters in the Notch. We will climb to the peak of Bare Mountain and follow the ridgeline. Passing over Mt Hitchcock, we will continue over the Seven Sisters. Here, we’ll stop for a picnic lunch along the way before passing by the historic Skinner House, one of the first mountain top hotels in New England. We will descend back into the valley ending our hike at Route 47 near the Connecticut River where we will have a shuttle waiting to bring us back to our cars.
Additional information regarding this experience
What's Included?
Guided hike
Exploration of one of New England's most iconic trails
A delicious picnic lunch
Return shuttle from the end of hike back to your vehicle
What to Bring
Comfortable hiking shoes with good ankle support
Day pack with sunscreen, bug spray, and extra layers
Sun hat
Plenty of drinking water
Other Notes:
IMPORTANT: We will hike at a moderate pace over steep rocky trails. This is a challenging hike and should not be attempted if you are not in good physical condition and an experienced hiker.
Each participant, or their guardian, must sign a waiver to participate in an Adventure East experience. Following payment of your online booking, your reservation confirmation will include a link to e-sign the waiver. Due to insurance requirements, we are unable to accommodate guests who do not sign a waiver.
