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This is a beautiful loop to hit the highest peak in Massachusetts.


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Map Key

6.6

Miles

10.7

KM

67%

Runnable

3,471' 1,058 m

High

1,233' 376 m

Low

2,251' 686 m

Up

2,246' 685 m

Down

13%

Avg Grade (7°)

39%

Max Grade (22°)

Dogs Unknown

Features Fall Colors · River/Creek · Views · Wildlife

Overview

This run takes you up the Bellows Pipe Trail, and back down on the Gould Trail. Both trails are beautifully maintained "Level 1" running culminating in a view from the top of Mount Greylock, the highest peak in MA.

Description

Parking can be found at the end of Gould Road on the right, just before you reach a farm, which is private property. Follow the trail from the back of the parking lot towards Bellows Pipe Trail. The trail is well marked, and all junctions are labeled clearly with signs. Enjoy several views of creeks and a waterfall on your way up the mountain. At about 2,400' (1.75 miles), the trail begins a series of switchbacks, which will leave you up by a portion of the AT. Turn left, and continue running up the gradual ridge climb to the summit.

Once you are done taking in the views at the peak, and have taken enough selfies, follow signs for the Appalachian Trail S, which can be found by the TV antenna at the summit. After about 10 minutes you'll see the signs for the Gould Trail. Follow the clearly marked trail on your way back down the mountain.

After you arrive at the Gould Trail trailhead parking lot there's a small cutout in the wooden fence to your left. There are no signs, but you need to take that path to return to the Bellows Pipe Trail parking lot.

History & Background

Mount Greylock is the highest natural point in Massachusetts at 3,489 feet (1,063 m). Although geologically part of the Taconic Mountains, Mount Greylock is commonly associated with the abutting Berkshire Hills to the east. The mountain is known for its expansive views encompassing five states and the only taiga-boreal forest in the state.

Contacts

Shared By:

Ben Rosenberg with improvements by Andy German

Trail Ratings

  4.3 from 23 votes

#478

Overall
  4.3 from 23 votes
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#478

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67 Views Last Month
32,963 Since Jun 9, 2018
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Photos

Mt Greylock and the shiny tower on top.
Jan 17, 2022 near Adams, MA
Microspikes recommended icy winter conditions (these crampons/ice axe are overkill).
Jan 17, 2022 near Adams, MA
Tree cave
Jan 17, 2022 near Adams, MA
The way back to Belows South Trailhead parking lot.
Jan 17, 2022 near Adams, MA
Icy tower on Mt Greylock.
Jan 17, 2022 near Adams, MA
Beautiful section of the AT just as the snow/ice was beginning to melt on the ridge
Jun 6, 2018 near Adams, MA

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Check-Ins

Jul 31, 2021
Pete Gibson
Climb up / out Bellows Pipe is challenging. Trail well marked and easy to follow. Nice brake at top. Descent is enjoyable 6.6mi — 2h 10m
Aug 13, 2020
Liz Roux
9.4mi — 4h 23m
Jun 28, 2019
Brian Wolski
Trail was mostly dry with just a few big muddy sections. A beautiful, though not very runnable, loop and great views from the summit. 8mi
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