Accessible Outdoor Trails in Western MA

With the last stretch of summer upon us and fall around the corner, there are still tons of outdoor activities to take part in! Both summer and fall are great seasons for walking and hiking on trails and mountains. Did you know that the Pioneer Valley is home to a number of trails which are designed for persons with disabilities? 

The town of Amherst has four accessible trails which are listed on the Amherst town website. The Kevin Flood Trail is designed for persons with limited sight. The Puffer’s Accessible Path is designed for fishermen with limited walking abilities. The Kevin Chase Dimock Trail is also designed for persons with limited walking abilities, while the Orchard Arboretum Accessible Trail is fully paved.

The D.A.R. State Forest contains a one-half mile stabilized stone-dust trail. 413 268-7098. 78 Cape Street. Goshen, MA

The Mount Tom State Reservation features a paved one-half mile loop trail which includes fishing pier. 413 534-1186. 125 Reservation Road. Holyoke, MA

The Pittsfield State Forest’s “Tranquility Trail” is a paved three-quarter mile trail which winds through the woods. This trail also features an audio tour with headphones, for those with visual impairments. 413-442-8992. Pittsfield State Forest. 1041 Cascade Street. Pittsfield, MA

The Ashuwillticook Rail Trail is a ten foot wide, fully paved and accessible path which provides views of the Hoosac Mountain Ranges and River. 413-442-8928. The trail runs through Lanesborough, Cheshire, and Adams, MA

Each week, read our list of weekly suggested events for outdoor activities in Western Mass. You can also check the Mass.gov website for a list of accessible outdoor events across Massachusetts. For example, All Out Adventures hosts inclusive rides weekly, on Fridays from 10am-3pm. Get out and explore!