Take a Hike â€“ forty seven free heritage walks scheduled

12:00AM / Monday, September 19, 2005Print Story | Email Story

Beckley Furnace, East Canaan, CT

Take a Hikeâ€ is the slogan for the fourth annual series of heritage walks scheduled for the October 1 and 2 weekend throughout the upper Housatonic River Valley of Massachusetts and Connecticut. Over this weekend the Upper Housatonic Valley Heritage Area, and its supporting organizations are hosting forty-seven free walks by historians, naturalists and environmentalists for the public to learn about and enjoy the rich natural and cultural resources of the upper Housatonic River Valley. The walks are co-sponsored by the National Park Service. â€œWe live in an incredibly lovely area,â€ said Paul Ivory, Great Barrington, MA, the walk coordinator and a Director of Upper Housatonic Heritage, Inc. â€œIt boasts a nationally significant cultural and natural heritage that has made a unique contribution to the American experience.â€ â€œThe walks are a sampler of the history and beauty of the valley that will provide both residents and visitors with a unique insight into this extraordinary land.â€ The â€œTake a Hikeâ€ weekend will feature short walks as well as longer hikes, nature walks, a bicycle hike and a birding trek. Knowledgeable leaders will help participants explore the Housatonic River and the history of the villages and towns in the region, as expressed in its archaeology, bridges, and monuments, and unsung geological and horticultural resources. Itâ€™s also a great opportunity to enjoy splendid, out-of-the-way autumn foliage and scenic vistas. The walks are made possible by the support of corporate sponsors: Becton Dickenson, Canaan, CT, The Berkshire Eagle, Pittsfield, MA, the Interlaken Inn, Lakeville, CT, and Salisbury Bank, Salisbury, CT. Details of the walks, to include dates and times, length, description of content, the walk leader and directions to the starting points and are found in a fullâ€“color brochure. To help the public to decide which walks coincide with their interests, the brochure codes each walk by one or more of four subjects: artistic heritage; architectural, landscape architectural and social histories; industrial history; and natural and scenic features. The brochure are available at many regional heritage sites and inns as well as the internet site â€œwww.upperhousatonicheritage.org.â€ Copies may also be obtained by calling 413-528-4384. Parking is available at most all walk locations. Walks will take place rain or shine. In the case of severely inclement weather, recorded information about any cancellations will be available by calling the Interlaken Inn, Lakeville, CT (800-222-2909, ext. 741 (MA) or 860-435-9878, ext. 741 (CT)). Only assistance dogs are permitted to accompany participants. â€œParticipation in these walks will not only be fun,â€ continued Ivory, â€œbut will be a vote in support of our designation as a National Heritage Area.â€ Designation will bring national recognition, significant funding and technical support for local projects seeking to preserve and celebrate the regionâ€™s extraordinary heritage. â€œAuthorization bills have passed the House of Representatives and the Senate. The final version of the bill will be written in conferenceâ€ added Director Ed Kirby, Sharon, CT. Here are some of the 48 hikes that will take place on Saturday and Sunday. Saturday morning will feature a series of 14 treks covering the entire Appalachian Trail, sponsored by the MA Appalachian Trail Committee, from South Egremont to Williamstown. Others include a walk through the Chesterwood woodlands with Superintendent Gerard Blache, a tour of Lenox Mountain by Narian Schroeder of the Berkshire Natural Resources Council, a walk through Norfolk, CTâ€™s industrial age with Richard Byrne, the Townâ€™s assistant Municipal Historian, an architectural tour of Sheffield, MA, by the Sheffield Historical Society, a tour of historic Kennedy Park in Lenox with Jan Chague, and a bicycle tour of â€œroads less traveledâ€ by Dan McGuiness of the Northwestern CT Council of Governments. At 9:00 Ruth and Skitch Henderson will open their early 18th century Hunt Hill Farm in New Milford, CT. On Saturday afternoon the Congregation of Marians will feature a tour of the Gilded Age Eden Hill mansion and the spectacular Chapel of Divine Mercy in Stockbridge. Also Patricia Flinn of the Laurel Hill Association will lead a wheelchair accessible autumn stroll on the Mary V. Flynn Trail in Stockbridge, the Norman Rockwell Museum will guide visitors through the famous illustratorâ€™s studio and an exhibition of contemporary American weathervanes on the grounds, and architect Anthony Barnaba will explore little know facts about Mahaiwe Cemetery, Great Barrington, MA. Sundayâ€™s schedule include a tour of the Berkshire National Fish Hatchery in Monterey, MA, with Board member George Emmons and a heritage treasure hunt for families on Lake Mansfield with historians and naturalists Dale and Alison Abrams. The day will conclude with a Shaker Waterpower Tour at Hancock Shaker Village and a heritage walk of Salisbury, CT. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 1 APPALACHIAN TRAIL WALKS (Other Heritage Walks are below) A series of walks (numbers 1-14 below) will cover the entire Appalachian Trail (AT) in the state of MA. They are hosted by the Massachusetts Appalachian Trail Committee. The hikes range from short moderate hikes through fields, farmlands and river valleys to more challenging climbs to the stateâ€™s highest peaks. Please dress appropriately for the weather and bring lunch and water. 1. SOUTH EGREMONT, MA N 8:30 AM SAGES RAVINE TO RACE BROOK FALLS TRAIL Ten miles with beautiful views from open cliffs, waterfalls, hemlock groves, including part of the Undermountain Trail, Paradise Lane and Race Brook Falls Trail as well as a section of the AT. This is a strenuous but rewarding hike for those in good condition. Leader: Elvery Veal. Meet at 8:30 at Race Brook Trail parking area on Route 41 in South Egremont, 3 miles south of Jug End Road. 2. SOUTH EGREMONT, MA N 9:00AM RACE BROOK FALLS TRAIL TO THE AT AND NORTH TO JUG END ROAD Beautiful waterfalls, views of Mt. Greylock, the Catskills, other mountains and the Housatonic Valley. A strenuous hike of 7 miles using Race Brook Falls Trail as an access. Leader: Jon Greene. Meet at the Race Brook Trailhead on Route 41. 3. GREAT BARRINGTON, MA N 9:00 AM HOME ROAD TO BENEDICT POND A moderately strenuous hike over East Mountain and along ledges with nice views; 71/2 miles. Leaders: Bob Snyder and Mary Berryhill. Meet at Guidoâ€™s Market, across Route 7 from Great Barrington Fairgrounds. 4. TYRINGHAM, MA N 9:00 AM FERNSIDE ROAD TO GOOSE POND ROAD, TYRINGHAM This is a moderate and enjoyable 71/2 mile hike with varied scenery. You may want to take a short side trail to the panoramic view of Tyringham from Tyringham Cobble. Leader: Pete Rentz. Meet near the Tyringham Fire Station on the Main Road. 5. LEE, MA N 9:00 AM ROUTE 20 LEE TO PITTSFIELD ROAD, WASHINGTON 9 1/2 miles of moderately paced and moderately strenuous hiking through October Mountain State Forest, over Becket Mountain and along scenic Finnerty Pond. Leader: Debra Weisenstein. Meet at AT trailhead on Route 20 just east of the Lee/Becket town line. 6. CHESHIRE, MA N 9:00 AM ROUTE 8 CHESHIRE TO MOUNT GREYLOCK SUMMIT This is a strenuous hike of approximately 7 miles. You will hike through meadows and open woods, then climb â€“ sometimes steeply â€“ through hemlock groves and mixed woodlands. Leader: Jim Scott. Meet at the Jonesâ€™Nose parking area, approximately 4 miles past the Mt. Greylock Visitorsâ€™Center, Rockwell Road, Lanesboro. 7. NORTH ADAMS, MA N 9:00 AM PATTISON ROAD TO MOUNT GREYLOCK SUMMIT This is a 5 1/2 mile, strenuous hike involving some steep climbing on Prospect, Williams and Greylock Mountains, rewarded with great views. Leader: John Sullivan. Meet in the Heritage Park parking area (There is a sign at the bridge on Route 8 in North Adams). 8. WILLIAMSTOWN, MA N 9:00 AM MASSACHUSETTS AVE TO THE VERMONT BORDER North on the AT and return using the Pine Cobble Trail. This is 8 miles of fairly strenuous but pleasant hiking with good views from Pine Cobble and Eph's Lookout. Leader: Bob Hatton. Meet at Cole Ave and North Hoosic Road in Williamstown. 9. TYRINGHAM, MA N 9:30 AM BENEDICT POND TO TYRINGHAM COBBLE Moderately strenuous, 9 miles, including views, a beaver pond, shelters, spruce grove and interesting rock formations. Leader: Jim Pelletier. Meet at the Trustees of Reservations Tyringham Cobble parking lot on Jerusalem Road, Tyringham. 10. PITTSFIELD, MA N 9:30 AM PITTSFIELD ROAD, WASHINGTON TO GRANGE HALL ROAD, DALTON A pleasant, moderate hike of 7 miles with good views from Warner Hill summit and a newly relocated section of trail. Leader: Cosmo Catalano. Meet at the Williams Street Plaza, Pittsfield. 11. SHEFFIELD, MA N 10:00 AM JUG END ROAD, SHEFFIELD TO BOARDMAN STREET A moderate hike of 5 1/2 miles with no major ascent. See a variety of habitats from open fields to woodlands. Leader: Bob Parker. Meet at Guido's Market, across Route 7 from Great Barrington Fairgrounds. 12. LEE, MA N 10:00 AM ROUTE 20 TO GOOSE POND ROAD Explore the Upper Goose Pond area and two recently built sections of trail. Cross the Mass Pike on the footbridge. Also, a side trip to Upper Goose Pond Cabin. Approximately 5 1/2 miles of moderate, scenic walking. Leader: Steve Smith. Meet at the Friendly's on Route 20 in Lee. 13. CHESHIRE, MA N 10:00 AM CHESHIRE TO GULF ROAD, DALTON About 8 miles of mostly moderate hiking. Nice views of Hoosac Lake, the valley and mountains from Cheshire Cobble, and Gore Pond, the highest pond in the state. Leader: Chuck Brown. Meet at the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail parking lot on Depot Street in Cheshire. 14. DALTON, MA N 1:00 PM HOUSATONIC STREET TO GRANGE HALL ROAD The round trip makes a total of 4 miles. This will be a short, interesting hike for those who are not free to walk in the morning. Possible 1/2 mile extension to Kay Wood AT Shelter. Leader: Val Stori. Meet at the AT crossing near the train tracks on Housatonic Street, Dalton. 15. NEW MILFORD, CT H,N 9:00 AM HUNT HILL FARM NATURAL AREA Ruth and Skitch Henderson and the Hunt Hill Farm Trust invite you to Hunt Hill Farm â€“ the heart of two historic New England farms â€“ to tour the preserved farmland and woodland. Also, take this opportunity to visit the Skitch Henderson Living Museum, an Affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, within one of ten buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Tours conducted by Fay Fitch, Hunt Hill Farm Manager, and Jessica Stewart, Gallery and Museum Director. The farm is located at 44 Upland Road, New Milford. From the Berkshires, take Route 7 south to Cornwall Bridge, CT. Turn left (south) onto Route 45 to New Preston. Take Route 202 south towards New Milford. In Northville, take a left onto Upland Road and the Silo Store Gallery and Cooking School (the starting point). 1 1/2 hours, 2 miles. 16. STOCKBRIDGE, MA A,H,N 9:00AM A WALK THROUGH THE CHESTERWOOD WOODLANDS Daniel Chester French (1850-1931), sculptor of the famed seated Abraham Lincoln in the Memorial in Washington, DC, summered at his beloved country home and studio from 1897 until his death in 1931. The sculptor designed the estate's landscape to include a studio garden paths and recreational features. Enjoy the scenic overlooks, vistas and early autumn foliage on a hike with Gerry Blache, Buildings and Grounds Superintendent, through the woodland walk French established in the forest to the north of the studio. Participants will also be able to view outdoor sculpture from the annual show, Contemporary Sculpture at Chesterwood. Walk starts from Chesterwood Visitors Center. Chesterwood is off Route 183 in the Glendale section of Stockbridge. Follow the signs from the west end of Main St., Stockbridge. 1 hour, 1 mile. 17. LENOX, MA N 9:30 AM LENOX MOUNTAIN LOOP Narain Schroeder, experienced environmental biologist and Associate Director of the Berkshire Natural Resources Council, will lead a scenic short walk on the Lenox Mountain Loop, the Jackson and Walsh Trails, to discuss natural history, forest management and water quality. This is a mostly moderate walk with some steep sections, interesting interpretive features and outstanding Berkshire foliage views. Meet at Olivia's Overlook. From Tanglewood in Lenox, drive up Lenox Mountain Road (the right fork after (south of) the parking lots at the Main Gate on Route 183). Olivia's Overlook is at the top of the ridge on the left. 2 hours, 2 miles. 18. NORFOLK, CT H,I 10:00 AM A WALK THROUGH NORFOLK'S INDUSTRIAL AGE A walking tour beginning at Buttermilk Falls where an old grist mill and saw mill were located and continuing down to the base of the falls where iron works and blacksmith shops stood, the walk will head west at the edge of the Blackberry River. Along the way you will see the foundations of the Atena Silk Co., the Norfolk & New Brunswick Hosier, and the 1854 Lawrence Machine Co., later used by the Hartford Spring & Axle Co. At the site of the Lawrence Co. you will be able to see the pit where a 42 foot diameter water wheel was placed; at the time the second largest water wheel in the country. The walk will be lead by Richard Byrne, past president of the Norfolk Historical Society and assistant Municipal Historian for the Town of Norfolk. He is an avid historical hiker who has led hikes to discover the legends of Meekertown and Stoney Lonesome. Meet in the center of Norfolk at the Norfolk Historical Society, 13 Village Green, at the intersection of Routes 44 and 272 (south). 2 hours, 1 1/2 miles. 19. LENOX, MA H,N 10:00 AM EXPLORING THE MOUNTâ€™S GARDENS AND GROUNDS Explore some of the 49 acres that surround The Mount, the 1902 estate of Pulitzer Prize-winning author Edith Wharton and a National Historic Landmark. Along with a tour of the three acres of formal gardens, participants will have the rare opportunity to view and learn about the restored greenhouse, historic entrance gates, wooded entrance drive and the sites of the former springhouse and kitchen garden. Betsy Anderson, Garden Historian, will lead the tour. Tour starts at the Ticket Office at The Mount, 2 Plunkett Street (off Route 7), Lenox. See www.EdithWharton.org for specific directions. 1.5 hours, 1 mile. 20. LENOX, MA H,N 10:00 AM DISCOVERING HISTORIC KENNEDY PARK Enjoy a moderate hike in the historic Kennedy Park, a Lenox treasure tucked in the middle of town. On a clear day views from the park (1,460' altitude) include New York State and the Mount Greylock tower. The park is the site of the Hotel Aspinwall, touted as the "Hotel Beautiful", when it served clientele seeking its fine service and the bucolic charms of the Berkshires during the cottager era. Built in 1902, this 400-room leviathan burned down in 1931. Tour participants will be able to view remnants of this magnificent artifact of early 20th century Lenox. The parkâ€™s trails meander around ponds and a unique balanced rock, great for a picture. Fall is a lovely time when the trails are ablaze with color. Come and join us. Meet at the Park parking lot on West Dugway Rd (the access road to the Berkshire Wildlife Sanctuary, off Route 7/20). 2 1/2 hours, 4 1/2 miles. 21. DALTON AND HINSDALE, MA H,N 10:00 AM OLD MILL TRAIL EXPLORATION Historian and naturalist Dennis Regan of the Housatonic Valley Association will lead a walk along a very pristine stretch of the Housatonic River, on a trail currently under construction. Using such evidence as building foundations and an old dam and penstock, the group will learn about 18th and 19th century mill operations on the Housatonic River. Meet at the Partridgefield Trading Co, 371 Old Dalton Road, Hinsdale, MA. 1 hour, 3/4 mile. 22. SHEFFIELD, MA H 10:00 AM ARCHITECTURAL WALKING TOUR The Sheffield Historical Society is offering a tour of the center of Sheffield, focusing on its 18th and 19th century homes and businesses. Hear the stories of the men, women and children who resided in these structures. Learn about the special features that make each building a key to understanding the past. Call (413)-229-2694 to reserve a place. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. The walk begins at the Society's Dan Raymond House headquarters, 159 Main Street (Route 7), Sheffield. Approximately 1 hour, 1/2 mile. 23. CANAAN, CT H,N 10:00 AM ROADS LESS TRAVELED Step back in time with Dan McGuinness, Northwestern Connecticut Council of Governments, on a bike hike on roads seemingly untouched by the late 20th-early 21st centuries. Enjoy the time-capsule qualities of these remote routes that have managed to elude progress. Meet in the parking lot on the southerly side of Route 44/7, across from McDonalds Restaurant, Canaan. From the south: take Route 7 north to the intersection of Route 44. At the first traffic light in Canaan, make a left onto Route 44 west and Route 7 north. The parking lot is on the left approximately 150 yards from the intersection. From the north, take Route 7 south. There is a traffic light at the intersection of Routes 7 and 44. At this traffic light, make a left onto Route 44 east and Route 7 south. The parking lot is on the right approximately 500 yards from the intersection. 3 hours, 25 miles distance. 24. DALTON, MA N 11:00 AM STEPPING BACK ON AN HISTORIC 19TH CENTURY ROAD Enjoy a walk with local historian, Gail Pinnas and master gardener, Mary Jane Caliento on the historic Gulf Road, believed to have been part of the Underground Railroad corridor that operated from Lebanon, through Pittsfield to Dalton. The Railroad used a cave beneath the road. The road also passes through Wizard's Glen which, with its dramatic rock formations and rugged terrain, has been a destination for hikers for centuries. From the Crane & Co. offices, Dalton, proceed up Main Street, to Park Ave. (the first left after the nursing home). Turn left on Park and drive to the four corners at the end of the street. Turn left onto Gulf Road and drive short distance to parking area for the Appalachian Trail. 1 1/2 hours, 1 mile. 25. FALLS VILLAGE, CT N 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM THREE HISTORIC BUILDINGS OF 19TH CENTURY CT Visit three 19th century buildings that served important civic functions in this small CT town that flourished through the Civil War, with the success of the nearby Ames Iron Works. (Falls Villge - Canaan Historical Society) Guides will be stationed in the South Canaan Meeting House, the little schoolhouse for the Beebe Hill School, and the Railroad Depot to welcome visitors and provide tours. Participants travel on own to each building. -The Meeting House is on the corner of Route 63 and Dean St. -The Beebe Hill School is located on Beebe Hill Rd., off Route 7. -The Railroad Depot is on Railroad Street, diagonally across from the firehouse. 1-1/2 hours, 3 miles. 26. STOCKBRIDGE, MA H 12:00 PM EDEN HILL: A GILDED AGE ESTATE In 1906 Samuel Woodward, who made his fortune as partner of the Woodward and Lothrop Department Store chain, constructed an English Tudor Revival mansion on a 350-acre estate on Eden Hill. He joined the set of patrician Americans who sought the scenic beauty and status of a country home in the Berkshires. Explore the mansion and grounds with a tour guide and learn about the history of this imposing estate and the Marians, the worldwide Catholic congregation that operates it as its provincial headquarters. The tour starts at the Marian Gift Shop adjacent to the mansion. From the junction of Routes 7 and 102 (Main Street) in the center of Stockbridge, turn onto Pine Street and head straight up the hill to the Marian entrance. Follow signs to parking and the tour. Approximately 45 minutes, 1/4 mile. 27. MONTEREY, MA H,N 1:00 PM EXPLORING THE MEETING HOUSE TRAIL AT THE BIDWELL HOUSE Accompany local historian George Emmons on an exploration of the Meeting House Trail, on the property of the authentically restored c. 1750 Bidwell House Museum, described as "a gem" by Wendell Garrett, former editor of The Magazine Antiques. On the walk participants will be able to enjoy such features as Native American burial cairns and the historic ruins of the first meeting house, as well as beautiful fall foliage. From Great Barrington, take Route 23 east. In Monterey Village, turn left onto Tyringham Road. Go past Lake Garfield. Turn left onto Art School Road, which ends at the Bidwell House, the starting point. 45 minutes, 1.5 miles. 28. LEE, MA H 1:00 PM LEE'S HISTORIC MAIN STREET WALKING TOUR Learn about the history of this thriving mill town as expressed in the commercial, civic, industrial and residential buildings, and the public monuments, on Leeâ€™s classic Victorian Main Street, a National Register Historic District. Guide, Caroline Young, founding member and Secretary of the Lee Historical Commission, will present the tour in period costume. Meet at the Lee Chamber of Commerce booth in Park Square, Main Street (Route 20), west-bound side in downtown Lee. 1 hour, 1 mile. 29. PITTSFIELD, MA N 2:00 PM FALL MIGRATION AT CANOE MEADOWS Canoe Meadows Wildlife Sanctuary offers fine fall birding. Join Rene Laubach, Director, Berkshire Wildlife Sanctuaries, Massachusetts Audubon Society, on a leisurely walk at Canoe Meadows Sanctuary to view fall migrant birds in a variety of habitats. Walk starts at the parking lot to Canoe Meadows Wildlife Sanctuary, Holmes Road, Pittsfield. From the south: take Route 7/20 to Holmes Road. Drive north on Holmes Road for 2.8 miles to the parking area on the right. 2 hours, approximately 1 1/2 miles. 30. STOCKBRIDGE, MA H,N 2:00 PM AUTUMN STROLL ON THE MARY V. FLYNN TRAIL An easy walk in the woods and along the Housatonic River, on a wide, packed-gravel trail, built mostly on the bed of the old Berkshire Street Railway trolley line. Starting with a 100 foot boardwalk, the trail goes through birch, pine, cottonwood and invasive euonymus, traverses two wooden bridges, and meets the river near a railed section. At the end of the wide trolley bed portion, a narrower section traverses two, smaller bridges as it loops back along the river through fern beds to the main trail. This trail was constructed in 2003 as part of the Laurel Hill Association's 150th Anniversary celebration. Walk leader is Patricia Flinn, 20-year member of the Board of the Laurel Hill Association and coordinator of the trail dedication. Suitable for people of all ages and abilities. Wheelchair Accessible. Meet at the Goodrich Memorial Footbridge at the end of Park Street, Stockbridge. A Mobil gas station is on the corner of Park and Route 7 at the southern entrance to the town. Park at the far end of the Recreation Park and walk a short distance to the end of the street. (Limited parking at the end of the street will be reserved for those with restricted abilities). 45 minutes; 1.2 miles round trip. 31. GREAT BARRINGTON, MA A,H 2:00 AM THE MONUMENTS OF THE MAHAIWE CEMETERY Originally the South Burial Ground, the earliest in town, the cemetery became the Mahaiwe in 1873 when it expanded and the Mahaiwe Cemetery Association was formed. Farmers, industrialists and war heroes are buried here. (Source: Bernard Drew, Great Barrington: Great Town, Great History). The Tornado of 1995 destroyed a 70-foot stretch of this beautiful park-like property. Join Anthony Barnaba, AIA, the architect in charge of the cemetery restoration, in a tour which will explore little known facts about how 19th cemeteries were laid out. Learn about the planning principles and design philosophy employed to create the cemetery layout, and the mathematical relationship between the walkway and the placement of the major monuments and stones. Meet at the Peterâ€™s Monument on Silver Street, in between Routes 23 and 7. 2 hours, 1 mile. 32. LENOX, MA A,H,N 2:00 PM ART AND ART DECO IN THE BERKSHIRES: FRELINGHUYSEN-MORRIS HOUSE, STUDIO AND LANDSCAPE Join Director Kinney Frelinghuysen on a tour of the Art Deco style home and landscape of 20th century American abstract artists, George L.K. Morris and Suzy Frelinghuysen. The walk will give participants the opportunity to view European and American Cubist art and the owners' art collection which includes works by Picasso, Leger and Braque, and a sitespecific sculpture by Gaston Lachaise on the grounds. The property borders Tanglewood. From Tanglewood's main gate, drive south on Route 183 .3 miles to Hawthorne Road. Turn left and drive .7 miles to Hawthorne Street. The entrance is .4 miles on the left. Meet at the gazebo in the parking lot. 1 1/2 hours, 2 miles. 33. STOCKBRIDGE A,N 2:30 PM SITE, STUDIO, SCULPTURE Explore the Norman Rockwell Museum's beautiful site during the splendor of autumn! Linwood House, an 1859 Berkshire Cottage, Norman Rockwell's studio, and Windblown: Contemporary American Weathervanes, an exhibition of outdoor kinetic sculpture, will be discussed during this special tour. Meet at the front terrace of the Norman Rockwell Museum, located on Route 183, 1/2 mile south of Route 102. Go to the front door. This lively jaunt will last 45 minutes and is less than a mile long. 34. GREAT BARRINGTON, MA H,N 3:00 PM GREAT BARRINGTON HOUSATONIC RIVER WALK The Great Barrington Housatonic River Walk, a public river greenway on the Housatonic River, has become a model for numerous towns along Massachusettsâ€™s rivers. Beyond transforming a blighted riverbank into a town park and greenway trail, this hands-on stewardship project in practical ecology has engaged over 1,900 young student and adult volunteers in clean-up, restoration, native landscaping and trail-making activities. The walk will explore the Housatonic's rich historical heritage by touring sites along the River Walk connected to electrical inventor William Stanley and civil rights leader W.E.B. Du Bois. Walk leader is Rachel Fletcher, a noted and highly respected environmentalist whose leadership has been instrumental in the development of this very successful project. Meet at River Walk's "Upstream" entrance, 195 Main Street (next to Brooks Pharmacy). 1 hour, 1/2 mile. SUNDAY OCTOBER 2 35. KENT, CT H,N 9:30 AM CELEBRATE THE HOUSATONIC RIVER! Walk along the Housatonic River on the Appalachian Trail in Kent and Sharon for five miles of flat terrain at a leisurely pace. Liba Furhman of the Housatonic Valley Association will discuss local history connected with the Housatonic and the river's ecosystem. Meet at 9:00 a.m. at the South Gate trailhead on River Road in Kent. Participants may return to their vehicles by foot or shuttle. For additional information and reservations, call 860-672-6678 or e-mail lfurhman@hvatoday.org. One-way trip of five miles takes approximately 3 hours. Round trip will take approximately 4 1/2 hours. 36. DALTON AND HINSDALE, MA H,N 10:00 AM OLD MILL TRAIL EXPLORATION Historian and naturalist Dennis Regan of the Housatonic Valley Association will lead a walk along a very pristine stretch of the Housatonic River, on a trail currently under construction. Using such evidence as building foundations and an old dam and penstock, the group will learn about 18th and 19th century mill operations on the Housatonic River. Meet at the Partridgefield Trading Co, 371 Old Dalton Road, Hinsdale, MA. 1 hour, 3/4 mile. 37. LENOX, MA H,N 10:00 AM EXPLORING THE MOUNT'S GARDENS AND GROUNDS Explore some of the 49 acres that surround The Mount, the 1902 estate of Pulitzer Prize-winning author Edith Wharton and a National Historic Landmark. Along with a tour of the three acres of formal gardens, participants will have the rare opportunity to view and learn about the restored greenhouse, historic entrance gates, wooded entrance drive and the sites of the former springhouse and kitchen garden. Betsy Anderson, Garden Historian, will lead the tour. Tour starts at the Ticket Office at The Mount, 2 Plunkett Street (off Route 7), Lenox. See www.EdithWharton.org for specific directions. 1 1/2 hours, 1 mile. 38. KENT, CT H,I 10:00 19TH CENTURY CT IRON HERITAGE HIKE Enjoy authentic period evidence of the development of our industrial and agricultural heritage on an interpretive trail hike through the ruins of the Kent Iron Co. Village, and the Sloane-Stanley Museum, and the Connecticut Antique Machinery Association Museum. Be among the first to hike this newly completed history trail through the historic remains of a small company town last operated by the Kent Iron Co. This small complex thrived from 1825 to 1890, the period the iron furnace was in operation. The walk will be lead by John Pawloski, a noted educator, historian, President of the Connecticut Antique Machinery Association and the Director of the Museum of Mining and Mineral Science. Meet at the Sloane-Stanley Museum, Route 7, one mile north of junction of Routes 341 and 7, Kent. 1 hour, 1/2 mile. 39. FALLS VILLAGE, CT H 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM THREE HISTORIC BUILDINGS OF 19TH CENTURY CT Visit three 19th century buildings that served important civic functions in this small CT town that flourished through the Civil War, with the success of the nearby Ames Iron Works. (Falls Villge - Canaan Historical Society) Guides will be stationed in the South Canaan Meeting House, the little schoolhouse for the Beebe Hill School, and the Railroad Depot to welcome visitors and provide tours. Participants travel on own to each building. -The Meeting House is on the corner of Route 63 and Dean St. -The Beebe Hill School is located on Beebe Hill Rd., off Route 7. -The Railroad Depot is on Railroad Street, diagonally across from the firehouse. 1-1/2 hours, 3 miles. 40. GREAT BARRINGTON, MA H,N 11:00 HERITAGE TREASURE HUNT Lake Mansfield is not only an important natural and recreational feature but a storied part of local history. The lake's past includes ice making operations, proposals for a 200 room hotel and a casino/boathouse, and a connection with Father Coughlin, the infamous right wing radio priest of the 1930's (Source: Bernard Drew, Great Barrington: Great Town, Great History). Learn about the history and ecology of Lake Mansfield on a treasure hunt designed for families by local historians and naturalists, Dale and Alison Abrams. Meet at the boat launch on Lake Mansfield Road. 45 minutes, 1 mile. 41. STOCKBRIDGE, MA H 12:00 PM EDEN HILL: A GILDED AGE ESTATE In 1906 Samuel Woodward, who made his fortune as partner of the Woodward and Lothrop Department Store chain, constructed an English Tudor Revival mansion on a 350-acre estate on Eden Hill. He joined the set of patrician Americans who sought the scenic beauty and status of a country home in the Berkshires. Explore the mansion and grounds with a tour guide and learn about the history of this imposing estate and the Marians, the worldwide Catholic congregation that operates it as its provincial headquarters. The tour starts at the Marian Gift Shop adjacent to the mansion. From the junction of Routes 7 and 102 (Main Street) in the center of Stockbridge, turn onto Pine Street and head straight up the hill to the Marian entrance. Follow signs to parking and the tour. Approximately 45 minutes, 1/4 mile. 42. MONTEREY, MA N 1:00 FISH HATCHERY TOUR AND FISHING! Join George Emmons, Board member, on a tour of the Berkshire National Fish Hatchery and learn about the science and methods of hatching eggs and growing trout and salmon. Tour starts from the Wildlife Center at the Hatchery, located on River Road (off Route 57 in Hartsville), Monterey. 1 1/2 hours. Less than 1/4 mile. 43. GREAT BARRINGTON, MA H 1:00 THE LIGHTER SIDE OF GREAT BARRINGTON HISTORY: A DOWNTOWN WALKING TOUR Bernard Drew, distinguished local historian and past Bay State Historical League Scholar in Residence, Berkshire Eagle columnist and author of Great Barrington: Great Town, Great History, will lead a downtown meander to affirm that local history, a record of everyday life in a small town, has its humorous side. This anecdotal stroll will take participants to the Town Hall, Railroad Street and Rosseter Street. Meet at the Bryant School parking lot on School Street, off Bridge Street. 2 hours. 1 mile. 44. RICHMOND, MA I 2:00 PM RICHMOND IRON WORKS TOUR Tour the only standing remains of a charcoal iron furnace in Massachusetts with Bill Edwards of the Richmond Historical Commission. Participants will also view the charcoal making site, the dam and waterpower facilities, a mill site and possibly a mine site. Walk starts at the Richmond Library, on the right side of Route 41, approximately 1/2 mile north of West Stockbridge/Richmond town line. 2 hours, 1 1/2 miles. 45. STOCKBRIDGE, MA H,N 2:00 PM AUTUMN STROLL ON THE MARY V. FLYNN TRAIL An easy walk in the woods and along the Housatonic River, on a wide, packed-gravel trail, built mostly on the bed of the old Berkshire Street Railway trolley line. Starting with a 100 foot boardwalk, the trail goes through birch, pine, cottonwood and invasive euonymus, traverses two wooden bridges, and meets the river near a railed section. At the end of the wide trolley bed portion, a narrower section traverses two, smaller bridges as it loops back along the river through fern beds to the main trail. This trail was constructed in 2003 as part of the Laurel Hill Association's 150th Anniversary celebration. Walk leader is Patricia Flinn, 20-year member of the Board of the Laurel Hill Association and coordinator of the trail dedication. Suitable for people of all ages and abilities. Wheelchair Accessible. Meet at the Goodrich Memorial Footbridge at the end of Park Street, Stockbridge. A Mobil gas station is on the corner of Park and Route 7 at the southern entrance to the town. Park at the far end of the Recreation Park and walk a short distance to the end of the street. (Limited parking at the end of the street will be reserved for those with restricted abilities). 45 minutes; 1.2 miles round trip. 46. SALISBURY, CT H,I,N 3:00 PM SALISBURY HERITAGE WALK The waters of Wachkocastinook Brook provided power for 18th and 19th century mills along Salisburyâ€™s Factory Street. George Massey, a prominent environmentalist and co-chair of the Salisbury Land Trust, will lead participants on an exploration of the sites and remains along this historic path. With fall colors near their peak, the walk will show how the industrial landscape has been transformed into today's residential area. Meet at the fountain by the Salisbury Town Hall, along Routes 44/41 in the center of the town. 2 miles. 47. PITTSFIELD, MA H,I 3:00 PM SHAKER WATERPOWER TOUR Learn about the history of Hancock Shaker's water power technologies with Todd Burdick, Director of Education, Hancock Shaker Village. Participants will hike up Shaker Brook (a headwater of the Housatonic River) to view archaeological sites of Shaker mills and view a demonstration of an 1858 water turbine operation in the Village Machine Shop. Meet at the Hancock Shaker Village Visitor Center, main entrance, on Route 20, five miles west of downtown Pittsfield. 2 hours, 1 mile. WHAT TO BRING * camera * good walking shoes * binoculars * sunscreen * insect repellent (always check for ticks) * hat * water and snacks. Please join us in this delightful opportunity to enjoy the extraordinary scenery and history of the upper Housatonic River valley.