GB A.T. Community Celebration: Hikes & Community Picnic

Start Date
End Date

Come celebrate Great Barrington's connection with the Appalachian Trail. A.T. Partners (ATC, AMC, MA DRC and GBLC) will be providing a full day of great events and a potluck picnic for all. Volunteer, hike, and picnic with A.T. Maintainers and Hikers.   All events are free and open to all.  Pre-register at info@gbtrails.org. See volunteer, guided hikes, and picnic info. below.

Location for all Activities: Beartown State Forest (Parking for the event will be offered at the main entrance for near the boat ramp on Benedict Pond Rd)

9AM- Volunteer for trail maintenance! Join AT volunteers working on rehabilitation of Glen Brook Shelter and Campsite.  Work includes light carpentry, painting and carrying materials into the work site.  1/2 mile moderate hike from parking area. Dress for the weather and bring lunch and water.  Meet at 9am at Guilder Pond/AT parking area in Mt Everett State Reservation.  Work will wrap up in time to attend  AT Day Picnic at Beartown State Forest.  Contact at@amcberkshire.org for more details."

Full Day 7.5 Miles A.T.Hike Home Rd, Sheffield to Benedict Pond— begins at 9am on Home Rd in Sheffield. We climb East Mtn to a view rock, traverse East Mtn to the Tom Leonard Shelter and Ice Gulch then down and across Rte 23 with a steep climb up to Benedict Pond. Total distance about 7.5 miles including all the trail in Great Barrington. This is a strenuous hike with some steep and rocky sections. Optional swim at Benedict Pond (there is a bath house), and you can stay for an annual community potluck with music that celebrates Great Barrington as an Appalachian Trail Community. And you may be able to talk to some thru-hikers! You must pre-register for this hike with the leader, Bess Dillman: elizabeth.dillman@gmail.com or 413-528-4130.

2 PM: choose an afternoon hike and join the fun! Choose a hike the one that comfortable fits you present hiking ability.

  • 2.4 Miles A.T.Hike (moderate with good climbs and great view) Join Christine Ward(GB Trails)for this great introductory Hike. Learn about the Appalachian Trail, catch a great view and explore the Wilcox South Shelter.

  • Other Hikes to be announced soon!  

  • Pre-registration for 2pm hikes is requested by not required: info@gbtrails.org

5pm: Come to the AT community Potluck Picnic and enjoy the cheerful notes of the Berkshire Ukulele Band!  Bring your favorite picnic food to share. Meet AT Volunteers and fellow hikers. Swimming & campfire provided. AT Community Day is sponsored by: Great Barrington Land Conservancy, Ma DCR, Greenagers, Appalachian Trail Conservancy, and Appalachian Mountain Club. For hike, picnic or both, email: info@gbtrails.org  or CALL 413 -528-0904

Appalachian Trail Hike

A. T. Community Day in Great Barrington, MA