Trails Used
Robert Frost Trail, Metacomet-Monadnock Trail
Trail Conditions
Notes
Started at the intersection of the Robert Frost Trail with Military Rd., and followed this for perhaps 0.2 miles to meet the M-M Trail, which I followed west over the Seven Sisters to a natural turnaround point at Old Mountain Rd. Though I was going for speed, there are excellent views particularly from the Mt. Holyoke summit clearing, but also near the high points of Bare Mountain and Mt. Hitchcock, and from a few other random vantage points along the way. Dry trail conditions were a plus, but this is a rugged route, and many of the rock surfaces were polished and slick. There was essentially zero mud, and there were no fallen leaves yet. Plenty of other friendly hikers were out enjoying the day, especially by the time I returned over Mt. Hitchcock. I saw a number of groups climbing Bare Mountain around 9:00 AM. This was about 12.0 miles with 3,950' elevation gain, and an abundance of Type 2 fun (largely because I was pushing the pace). Full details on Unnecessary Climb!
Parking
Plenty of spaces at the state park at 6:30 AM, but the lot was essentially full at 9:30 AM. I am not sure how much parking was available along Military Rd. at that point.
Water Crossings
No water to be found up here- make sure to bring a sufficient amount for the trip, which often takes longer than people expect!
Wildlife
Thankfully, zero.