Almost there. A screenshot from the AllTrails app during an Independence Day hike in the Mount Holyoke Range State Park, just south of Amherst.
The AllTrails app is a popular companion for local hikers, offering detailed maps, trail reviews, and elevation data. This screenshot shows part of a route through the Mount Holyoke Range State Park, a favorite destination for those in Amherst and the surrounding Pioneer Valley.
The Mount Holyoke Range is a rugged, forested spine of volcanic rock stretching east to west. It’s home to a network of trails that include steep ascents, sweeping views, and geological landmarks. Notable peaks in the range include Mount Norwottuck, Bare Mountain, and Mount Holyoke itself.
The state park spans the towns of Amherst, Granby, Hadley, and South Hadley. Many trails are accessible from parking areas along Route 116, near the Notch Visitor Center, a common starting point for hikes on the Metacomet-Monadnock Trail and the Seven Sisters section.
A reminder: cell service can be patchy in spots, so it’s always a good idea to download maps ahead of time if you’re using apps like AllTrails.
Additional Hiking Groups in the Amherst Area:
- Pioneer Valley Hiking Club (PVHC)
A large, active group offering hikes, bike rides, and kayaking trips almost daily. They cater to all skill levels, from easy strolls to challenging mountain hikes.
pioneervalleyhikingclub.org - Western Mass Hilltown Hikers
This nonprofit organizes monthly guided hikes across the Hilltowns of Western Massachusetts, focusing on both natural beauty and local history.
westernmasshilltownhikers.com - Appalachian Mountain Club – Western Massachusetts Chapter
The AMC’s local chapter leads a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, cross-country skiing, and backpacking trips throughout the region.
www.amc-wma.org - Wilbraham Hiking Club
Formed in 2012, this club offers weekly hikes year-round on local trails and others within an hour’s drive, welcoming hikers of all abilities. The club organizes hikes all over the Pioneer Valley and beyond.
www.wilbraham-ma.gov/304/wilbraham-hiking-club - Meetup.com – Amherst Outdoor Activities
A platform where various local groups post upcoming hikes and outdoor events, providing opportunities to join community-led excursions.
www.meetup.com/find/us–ma–amherst/outdoor-activities
These groups offer great opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the Amherst area while connecting with fellow outdoor enthusiasts.
