Mount Greylock, USA - travel experience, post, guide, blog and photos

USA: Massachusetts: Boston, Mount Greylock, Pittsfield

Mount Greylock, Massachusetts, USA: Wild & rugged; intimate and accessible
by Prakash Bang, Editor in Chief

An Overlook, Mount Greylock, Massachusetts, USA

At 3,491 feet, Mount Greylock is the highest point in Massachusetts. Rising above the surrounding Berkshire landscape, dramatic views of 60-90 miles distant may be seen.

Veterans War Memorial Tower, Mount Greylock, Massachusetts, USA

The drive to the Mount Greylock Visitor Centre was about 30 minutes from Hancock Shaker Village in Pittsfield. It's an 8-mile picturesque drive to the peak from the Visitor Centre. The roads to the summit are open seasonally from late-May through November 1; weather permitting into fall. It's a good idea to call ahead for current road conditions. Following the two-year Historic Parkway Rehabilitation Project the newly restored road system offers numerous opportunities for scenic viewing along this state-designated Scenic Byway.

Mount Greylock became Massachusetts' first wilderness state park, acquired by the Commonwealth in 1898, to preserve its natural environment for public enjoyment. Wild and rugged yet intimate and accessible, Mount Greylock rewards the visitor exploring this special place of scenic and natural beauty.

The Massachusetts Veterans War Memorial Tower was built in 1932 and crowns the highest point in the state. The memorial was dedicated in June 1933 as a tribute to courage, endurance, loyalty and self-sacrifice, wherever these qualities have been shown, by the state’s men and women in the uniform of the state or nation.

Towards Cheshire, Mount Greylock, Massachusetts, USA

Just adjacent to the Memorial Tower is Bascom Lodge, built in rustic stone and wood. The lodge offers rooms for overnight stays and has a working restaurant.

After spending an hour at the summit, I commenced my journey towards my home for the night - Harbour House Inn in Cheshire.

At about 4PM I was at the doors of this beautiful and historic 18th century Georgian colonial home. Eva Amuso was more than a perfect host. She takes personal interest in the wellbeing of her guests and is known to be an excellent breakfast maker. Sadly, I missed the opportunity to enjoy the breakfast the next morning as I had to leave very early to catch my flight from Boston airport. Going by the guests remarks, I do believe that the breakfasts she cooks are legendry! The rooms at the inn are uniquely appointed.

Towards the Summit, Mount Greylock, Massachusetts, USA

I walked around the property for about an hour. The location was just perfect. The walk in the neighbourhood did build my appetite. The dinner that night was hosted at Gala Steakhouse & Bistro at The Orchards Hotel in Willaimstown, just about 20-minute drive from Harbour House. Chef Bonnivier made a good meal for us with locally grown and organic products.

I left Cheshire at 6AM the next morning. I had to return my car at Boston airport at 9AM and check-in for my flight back home. Thus ending my 7-day journey amidst New England's fall foliage.

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