Mount Tom State Reservation

Mount Tom, 1,202 feet (366 m), is a steep, rugged traprock mountain peak on the west bank of the Connecticut River 4.5 miles (7 km) northwest of downtown Holyoke, Massachusetts. The mountain is the southernmost and highest peak of the Mount Tom Range and the highest traprock peak of the 100-mile (160 km) long Metacomet Ridge. A popular outdoor recreation resource, the mountain is known for its continuous line of cliffs and talus slopes visible from the south and west, its dramatic 1,100-foot (340 m) rise over the surrounding Connecticut River Valley, and its rare plant communities and microclimate ecosystems.Mt. Tom boasts an unparalleled view of the Connecticut Valley north and south, the Berkshire mountains to the west and the Pelham hills to the east. This 2,161 acre facility offers 22 miles of hiking and walking trails; picnicking; fishing on Lake Bray; and cross country skiing and ice skating in the winter. Mt. Tom also offers a children's play area.Along with many well marked trails ranging from easy-moderate (plenty of steep hiking so be aware of that during the thaw/refreeze time of the year since a lot of the ice can be covered by leaves). My favorite thing about Mount Tom is that there are plenty of opportunities to explore off the beaten path which will lead you to many beautiful waterfalls and streams! Definitely worth the day trip!!