Hiking In The Berkshires

Having recently come back from a camping trip in the Berkshire mountains in Massachusetts, I am sore and weathered from the many hiking, climbing, and swimming trips that my buddies and I went on.  This area has, without a doubt, some of the most visually striking natural features I have ever seen.  It is no wonder everybody on the trip was always wanting to get to our next journey.  From the summits of the mountains, to the forest trails, to the lakes and waterfalls, there is relaxation and adventure to be discovered just around the corner.

The first place that we saw was an attraction named Tannery Falls, where there are hiking trails that follow a few scenic streams and waterfalls.  When we came to the first and tallest waterfall, my friends and I took a quick break by wading waist deep in the cold collection of water at the bottom of the waterfall.  I don’t think five minutes passed before we were all climbing up the waterfall, taking breaks in the small grottos on the way up to the pool at the top, known as “The Oasis.”  Once at the top of the waterfall, we spent lots of time there eating, swimming, throwing stones into the pools below and occasionally posing for photos taken by tourists walking by.

Our second journey was a lake somewhat in close proximity to our campsite in Savoy.  It was definitely not the largest lake that I have laid eyes on, but it was so relaxed and inviting that I had to swim again.  In the middle of the lake, there is a rock which resembles a bench that raises out of the lake about a foot.  As my friends and I found out, seats three with ease.  This rock is where we saw the sunset of our second day camping, and let me tell you, it was one to remember.

On the third day, our final adventure destination was a place called the Windsor Jambs.  The Windsor Jambs is a lengthy stretch of stream, bordered by cliffs and massive boulders that are perfect for climbing. We walked the hiking trail down to the bottom of the Jambs and got pumped up for our adventure back up through the cliffs and waterfalls.  On a few occasions I had to resort to my Nikon binos to view what things lay ahead, and correctly make a route to safely get around them.  Along with being extremely fun, the Jambs are somewhat dangerous, but very pretty.

After the three day camp-out packed with long days and wild nights, I can certainly say that I want to go back again.  I highly recommend you to visit the mountains in Massuchusetts the first opportunity you have.  Take your family for a camping trip, or just make a few days for you to simply relax and take pleasure in nature.  Whatever journeys or relaxations you choose to participate in, I guarantee you will be astounded by the beauty and freedom of these mountains.

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