Autumn Ridgeline Hike - Western Massachusetts
September 20, 2025 — 9:00 am - 1:00 pm ET Rain date: September 21, 2025
Last day to register: September 18, 2025
Join TVOP Volunteer Sam on this iconic ridgeline hike in Easthampton, MA. The many ascents and descents on this hike are sure to get your heart pumping, but the payoff is more than worth it! Our route will take us from the forest to the sky as we follow a craggy traprock ridge offering sweeping western views of Berkshire Mountains, while raptors surf the thermals at eye level. We’ll challenge ourselves on rock scrambles, catch our breath (and eat some snacks) at the many overlooks, and enjoy queer community while taking in the colors of early autumn. After the hike, we’ll reconvene in town for some delicious ice cream—vegan options available!
Accessibility: This 3-mile trail includes ~700 ft of elevation gain and is very steep and rocky. We will hike at the pace of the slowest person and take plenty of breaks. The trail begins by ascending almost 500 ft from the parking area in the first 0.4 mile, followed by smaller but regular ups and downs. Multiple sections along the ridge may require scrambling over steep rock faces, occasionally requiring the use of hands, or navigating tight spaces. There are sections of uneven and loose footing on talus slopes. The trail skirts the edge of basalt cliffs with sheer drop-offs on several occasions. Hiking poles are recommended if you have them. We will reschedule for rain, thunderstorms, or very windy conditions. Registration is limited to 12. More detailed information on our meeting location will be shared with registered participants prior to the event.
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We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them. If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated at this event.
GENERAL INFO
Location: Easthampton, MA area (Nipmuc, Pocumtuck, and Nonotuck lands)
Parking: Pay to park in a large paved lot. $5 for MA residents, $20 for non-MA residents (credit card only; residency is determined by license plate). Portapotties are available just down the road.
Pets: While we love pets, we ask that furry friends who are not service animals stay at home for this adventure. Tell them we said hi!
Meet: September 20, 2025
Hike: 3 miles, 710ft elevation gain
Cost: Parking at this hike is $5 for MA residents/$20 for non-MA residents. Other than parking fees, this event is completely free to access! We welcome donations of any amount, which help us continue to provide these programs. We appreciate your support and your contribution!
Bring: Plenty of water, snacks or lunch, hiking boots, bug spray, sunscreen, hat, hiking poles
COVID SAFETY
Masks are not required during this event, however they are welcomed if wearing one allows you to better engage with the group. PLEASE be mindful of your own and group safety. If you or anyone in your household are not feeling well, do not participate in a hike.
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Information for our land acknowledgment was gathered from nativeland.ca, which provides an estimate of original indigenous land occupation, but does not take into account migratory patterns or movement of the many surrounding communities. We recognize the historical complexity of indigenous movement across the land, and honor with gratitude the many, many surviving native nations whose land we benefit from in our work to diversify the outdoors.