Stockbridge, MA: Four-Mile Hike at Laura's Lookout in the Berkshires
If you are looking for a great day hike in the Berkshire Mountains, I recommend that you try Laura's Tower and Ice Glen in Stockbridge, MA. Part of the Laurel Hill Association Trials, Laura's Tower and Ice Glen combined make a fine four-mile hike.
The trailhead is located on Park Street, off Route 7, just south of Stockbridge center. The park offers several hiking options, and we took explored two of the trails available. Our hike began with a journey over the suspension footbridge that goes over the Housatonic River.
We then headed straight up the hill to Laura's Lookout. This is a 600-foot vertical hike - a great way to get warmed up. At the top is a metal lookout tower with an open platform at the top. Climb the 35 steps and you'll be treated to panoramic views of the Berkshire Mountains.
After descending from the tower, we retraced our path about halfway down the hill, then picked up the path to Ice Glen. This is a glacial gorge full of gigantic boulders and rock formations. We had a great time climbing through the gorge and exploring some of the natural caves.
At the bottom of the gorge, the trail widens out and the hike follows a private driveway. This then exits onto a picturesque road lined with stately mountain mansions.
This was a fantastic hike if you only have a couple of hours. The tower and the gorge provide interest for kids as well as adults. After your hike, you can stop in historic Stockbridge for a snack. If you are planning a trip to the Berkshire Mountains, put Laura's Lookout and Ice Glen on your list of hikes.
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