Mount Greylock State Reservation

The 3,491-foot summit (Rockwell Rd., Lanesborough, 413/499-4262, www.mass.gov [1]) of the highest peak in Massachusetts [2] is a favorite for both challenging overnight hikes and scenic afternoon drives. Several trails lead to the summit—from Pattison Road in North Adams [3], the 6.7-mile trail offers terrific views from the summits of Mount Prospect, Mount Williams, and Mount Fitch, before the strenuous climb on the Appalachian Trail to the summit.

From the Hopper Road in Williamstown [4], the challenging 4.1-mile Hopper Trail climbs along brooks and rocky rises in a steep climb to the top, with a campsite halfway. The (slightly) easier 6.9-mile Appalachian Trail up Saddle Ball Mountain begins at Outlook Avenue in Cheshire and ends with the steep Misery Hill pitch up to the summit.

For gain without the pain, a scenic auto-road (May–Oct.) climbs from Notch Road in North Adams [3] to the summit, from which you can climb to the top of a 100-foot-high war memorial for fantastic views of virtually all of the Berkshires (and some of New York [5] besides).

Also at the top is a snack bar and visitors center with information on short hikes and nature activities, as well as accommodations in Bascom Lodge (413/743-1591, http://bascomlodge.net [6], May–Nov., bunks $35, private rooms $100–125).