The best running trails around Pittsfield

The Under Mountain Rest loop near Lenox offers a delightful journey through the Parsons Marsh Reserve, where you'll jog along crushed stone paths and wooden boardwalks. The scenery shifts from open meadows to forested wetlands, passing a small pond with a small waterfall before reaching an observation platform with panoramic marsh views. This moderate 4.9-mile (7.9 km) route, with just 361 feet (110 metres) of elevation gain, is typically completed in about 50 minutes, making it ideal for a leisurely outing.

Access to the Parsons Marsh Reserve is conveniently located off Under Mountain Road in Lenox, Massachusetts. While specific parking information isn't always detailed, the area is known for its visitor-friendly setup. This trail is designed for universal accessibility, making it a great option for nearly everyone, and it's generally enjoyable throughout the year, though wildlife viewing opportunities might vary seasonally.

This trail is a true "hidden gem" in the Berkshires, celebrated for its rich natural environment and commitment to accessibility. It's an excellent spot for birding and wildlife spotting, with chances to see beaver, mink, and otter. The trail itself features an 800-foot boardwalk and was built to U.S. Forest Service accessibility standards, ensuring an immersive outdoor experience for all.

The Cheshire Reservoir loop from Western District HQ offers a long, rewarding jogging experience, primarily along the paved Ashuwillticook Rail Trail. As you cover the 10.8 miles (17.5 km), you'll be treated to expansive views of the Cheshire Reservoir, the Hoosic River, and the surrounding wetlands, all framed by the distant Mount Greylock and Hoosac Mountain Ranges. Despite a minimal 118 feet (36 metres) of elevation gain, this is rated as a difficult route for jogging, making it ideal for those seeking a sustained workout over approximately 1 hour and 47 minutes.

Access to the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail is generally straightforward, with parking available at various points along its length. While the specific "Western District HQ" starting point is not detailed, you can expect good facilities. For the best experience, plan your jog for the morning or late afternoon to enjoy cooler temperatures and softer light reflecting off the water.

This trail is more than just a path; it's a journey through history and nature. The name "Ashuwillticook" itself comes from a Native American phrase meaning "at the in-between pleasant river," connecting you to the region's past. The rail trail is also a testament to repurposing industrial heritage for recreation, and it even intersects with the famed Appalachian Trail, offering possibilities for further exploration.

The View to west loop from Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary offers a fantastic jogging experience, leading you through varied forest landscapes to the summit of Lenox Mountain. From the top, you'll be treated to expansive westward views, stretching across the Taconic Range and potentially even to the Catskill Mountains. The descent via the Overbrook Trail provides a serene contrast, winding past charming brooks and small waterfalls, creating a dynamic and engaging route.

This moderate loop covers 5.5 miles (8.8 km) with a significant 727 feet (222 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 1 hour and 3 minutes. Due to the steep and rocky sections, particularly on the ascent, many find it best to jog up the Trail of the Ledges and descend the Overbrook Trail. Parking is available at the Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary; consider an early start to secure a spot and enjoy the trails before they get busy.

Beyond the challenging terrain and rewarding viewpoints, the sanctuary is a haven for wildlife. Keep an eye out for signs of the active beaver population along Yokun Brook, and bring your binoculars for birdwatching, as the diverse ecosystems attract a variety of species. This makes the west loop not just a great workout, but also an opportunity to connect with nature and observe local wildlife.