Trails to treasure

HIKE: The 5.8-mile moderate hike begins and ends on the one-mile East Ridge Trail. Follow the Nipmuck and Breakneck Pond View trails to circle the pond; designated camping sites are located on both trails. Longer hikes are available using the adjoining trail network.

TRAILHEAD: Picnic area on Bigelow Pond’s north shore, Bigelow Hollow State Park, Union.

REGULATIONS: Preregister with Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection two weeks in advance.

AMENITIES: Lean-to, tenting areas, fire rings (no outhouses).

http://www.ct.gov/dep/cwp/browse.asp?A=2716

RACE BROOK FALLS (MASS.)

One of many backcountry destinations in the southern Berkshires, Race Brook Falls Campsite is a perfect hub for exploring natural features on the Appalachian Trail including Mounts Everett and Race, Guilder Pond, and Sages Ravine.

HIKE: The 3.6-mile round-trip trek to the campsite along the Race Brook Trail includes an aggressive climb past a series of waterfalls (one brook crossing can be difficult during high water). The path moderates near the tenting area, 0.2 mile from the Appalachian Trail.

TRAILHEAD: Route 41, 2.8 miles north of state line, Sheffield.

REGULATIONS: First-come, first-served; limit five people per site.

AMENITIES: Tent platforms, group camping area, fire rings, bear box, outhouse.

www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/western/mwas.htm

MOUNT GREYLOCK (MASS.)

Despite being overrun by automobiles, Mount Greylock is a backpacker’s paradise where inviting trails parallel cas cading streams, explore serene forested slopes, and scale scenic ridgelines.

HIKE: Journeying counterclockwise, use the Hopper, Appalachian, and Money Brook trails to complete a challenging 11.2-mile loop. Along the circuit, a variety of accommodations await, including the Mount Greylock Campground at mile 2.4 and the Wilbur’s Clearing shelter site at mile 7.9 (less adventurous backpackers can opt for the summit’s Bascom Lodge at mile 4.1).

TRAILHEAD: Haley Farm, end of Hopper Road off Route 43 in Williamstown.