New England Overview > Mount Greylock
Mount Greylock is the highest natural point in Massachusetts. Although geologically part of the Taconic Mountains, it 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.
An iconic, 93-foot-high lighthouse-like Massachusetts Veterans War Memorial Tower looms over the summit, and a network of hiking trails traverse the mountain to include a stretch of the Appalachian Trail.
Mount Greylock State Reservation was created in 1898 as the first public land for the purpose of forest preservation in Massachusetts.
Did you know?
Many famous writers and artists often visited Mount Greylock, including Nathaniel Hawthorne, William Cullen Bryant, Oliver Wendell Holmes, Herman Melville, and Henry David Thoreau.
Mount Greylock Basics
- Summit elevation: 3,489′ (1,064 m)
- Vertical gain: 2,267′
- Hiking mileage: 6.5 miles
- Location: Mount Greylock State Reservation
Hiking Mount Greylock
Six-Pack of Peaks Challengers should follow a 6.5 mile loop trail to the summit, using the Gould and Thunderbolt trails.
Travel Time
- Driving from Boston, MA: 2:45 (144 Miles)
- Driving from Albany, NY: 1:12 (47 Miles)
- Look-up turn-by-turn directions to the trailhead here on Google Maps
Where to Stay
Camping
Mount Greylock State Reservation offers good camping options for hikers that want to sleep under the stars.
Lodging
I highly recommend the Bascom Lodge located at the Mt Greylock summit. The views of the surrounding area from this historic 1930's stone lodge are incredible.
For those wanting to explore more of the nearby Berkshires, many lodging options are available in the nearby towns of Pittsfield and North Adams. Hotel on North in Pittsfield is one of my favorites.
Dining
For those staying near Pittsfield, District Kitchen and Bar is fabulous. For those staying up closer to North Adams, I highly recommend PUBLIC eat + drink.Thanks to New England Six-Pack of Peaks Ambassador Craig Wonson for local recommendations and details.
