By DAN MATHERS
Lots of places claim to have something for everyone. Chapel Brook Reservation in western Massachusetts really does.
This 173-acre Trustees of Reservations property in Ashfield, Massachusetts is split in two by Williamsburg Road, and its two sides feel like split personalities, with the western side being a magnet for thrill-seekers looking for an adrenaline rush, and the eastern side attracting those looking for a relaxing and unforgettable day immersed in nature.
The Adventure Side
The western side is all about adventure and is home to one of the area’s best rock climbing spots. There, skilled climbers enjoy scaling the nearly vertical 100-foot rock face of Pony Mountain. Even if you’re not a climber, visitors still enjoy hiking up to marvel at the mountain’s dramatic rock face before continuing on to the top of the 1,420-foot peak.
Hikers have two route options up the mountain: the short, steep Climbers Trail, running up the side of Chapel Ledge; and a less-strenuous half-mile Summit Trail that takes a more gentle route around the peak. Both trails lead to the summit, where a grove of trees abruptly gives way to granite ledges offering dramatic views of the Berkshire foothills.
Normally, the peak would be an amazing place to sit, relax, and maybe have lunch. But, at Chapel Brook, you’ll want to cross the road for that.
The Relaxing Side
On the other side of the road, Chapel Brook cascades over three bedrock ledges. The falls are stunningly beautiful, but what makes them even better is each of them have pools that are perfect to wade in. The bottom falls has a short, gentle slope that is perfect for kids to slide down the wet rock into the pool below.
The area around the falls have lots of rocks on which to sit, each lunch, and enjoy the surroundings. Just be careful not to slip on wet rocks and hurt yourself.
In addition to Pony Mountain on one side and Chapel Brook’s three falls on the other, there’s a lot more to enjoy. Both sides of the reservation connect to trails that weave through dense hardwood forests and explore miles of the surrounding area.
On the western side, the D.A.R. Trail leads to the D.A.R. State Forest two miles away. On the eastern side, hikers can take the Two Bridges Trail to the Bullitt Trail, which leads to Bullitt Reservation 1.8 miles away.
Other Places In The Area
While you’re in the area, you’ll want to visit another Trustees property in nearby Chesterfield, the Chesterfield Gorge Reservation. This imposing gorge was carved by the Westfield River and features dramatic 70-foot-high rock walls.
Another stop should be the D.A.R. State Forest. The park features a lake that paddlers love to explore. It also has a swimming area, beach, and picnic tables, making it a great place to spend the day with kids.
The D.A.R. is also home to miles of heavily-forested hiking and mountain bike trails. And it’s a great place to stay, with one of the most attractive campgrounds in all of New England.
After all this outdoor fun, make sure to treat yourself. Stop by the Williamsburg General Store in the center of Williamsburg and get yourself a Wrapple. Don’t know what that is? Just trust me on this one…
