Part of the Massachusetts State Park system, Mohawk Trail State Forest in Charlemont is the perfect backdrop for a winter weekend getaway. Offering visitors 6,000 acres to explore, it’s comprised of gorges, woods, rivers, streams and mountain ridges. Your family will truly enjoy exploring the Bay State’s great outdoors with a weekend spent in this gorgeous wilderness spot.
Reservations are required for camping at Mohawk Trail State Forest, and cabins are the only option for winter camping, but don’t worry, you’ll still be somewhat roughing it. Even though you won’t be exposed to the elements, these cabins provide you suitable shelter for the middle of January. They are comprised of bunkbeds, a table and chairs, and a wood stove that offers some heat and a surface for cooking. Guests are responsible for bringing linens, pillows, cookware, dishes, cutlery, etc.
Enjoy a mile and a quarter long winter hike on the Mohican-Mohawk Trail. The trail is near the year-round campground (park personnel will direct you), and allows a beautiful view of the park landscape. The trail—suitable for all levels of hikers—is perfect for a family hike, and offers gorgeous sunrises and sunsets when planning on a time-appropriate schedule. Be sure to bring your cameras, as these are moments made for sharing—both with the family that’s with you, and your friends at home.
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Mohawk Pond, inside Mohawk Trail State Forest, is the perfect place for lacing up ice skates and taking a loop around the ice. Ask state park personnel to direct you to the most convenient way to access the pond.
Mohawk Trail State Forest allows direct access to Cold River, where some of the best trout fishing in the Bay State takes place. All winter long the trout are swimming in the river. Fly fishermen and anglers alike deem it a favorite spot.
Hunting for rabbit and deer is allowed within Mohawk Trail State Forest, but there are restrictions in place. For example, rabbit hunting may take place through the end of February. Deer hunting is allowed through the end of December, however from the tenth through the 31st it is only open to those using registered primitive firearms. Park personnel will direct hunters to the appropriate areas with in the park for safe hunting. All hunting is prohibited on Sundays in Massachusetts.
Either en route to or from your winter weekend getaway, make plans to visit the museum at the Clark in nearby Williamstown. Exhibits include some of the most unique artwork from both the U.S. and Europe, and includes paintings, sculpture, photographs, drawings and more. There is something for everyone at this exciting art museum.
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Plan to take in a performance at Mass MoCA. There are always showings, with several available during your winter weekend getaway. Choose from live music, documentaries, dance performances and dance parties, theater presentations and more. Check the website for scheduling and how to buy tickets.
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You’ll find everything you could possibly need at A.L. Avery & Son General Store. Serving the Charlemont region since the 1860s, if you forgot something you’ll need for your winter weekend getaway, you may just find it here. Selling everything from hardware to gifts, it’s situated in a quaint old building. Those who have visited remarked on that as well as on its wares.
The Bissell Covered Bridge in Charlemont is well worth the time needed to visit and take a few pictures. It spans Mill Brook, and is closed to traffic, but may be walked over so bring your walking boots and walk through the history. Built in 1951, it’s a perfect touch of nostalgia to add to your winter weekend getaway.
Enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner at Cold River Café & Restaurant. Featuring views of the river you may have fished on during your winter weekend getaway, indulge in a Belgian waffle, game sausage, brisket and more for breakfast. Dine on burgers, sandwiches and countless entrees for lunch. And make sure you stomach is a big as your eyes at dinner time when they serve selections including seafood, steaks, chicken and more. Be sure to treat yourself to spirits from Berkshire Mountain Distillers and take home some delicious baked goods on your way out the door.
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