Chesterfield Gorge Reservation

If you are in the area and are looking for a unique way to spend your afternoon, then you should check out the Chesterfield Gorge Reservation in Westchester, Massachusetts. This nature reserve has been around for a long time and is owned by the Trustees of Reservations. It is a great place for hiking, biking, and fishing. Here are some fun facts about this natural area:

Located in Williamsburg, Massachusetts, Chesterfield Gorge is easily accessible from I-91 via exit 18 or exit 19. The park is on State Route 9, or Franklin Pierce Highway, and is about nine miles from the town of Pittsfield. Take Ireland Street, which connects to River Road, and continue along the park's scenic drive to the Gorge. Alternatively, take State Route 143, which runs west of Williamsburg.

The park is about 30 miles northwest of Springfield. The Chesterfield Gorge is home to a variety of recreational activities, including running. Runners may choose to spend a day hiking or biking the gorge. Runners can choose between a 10K and a 25K race. Both distances offer a challenging workout and are great for beginners. If you're interested in running, you can also check out the Chesterfield Gorge Ultra.

In 1919, the park's Purgatory Chasm was declared a state reservation. This natural wonder is surrounded by lush, green surroundings. The name was named after an Algonquin Indian who once killed a white colonial settler. The woman escaped, ran into the settler, and cried out to Hobomoko, who appeared to protect her and flew him to Purgatory Chasm.

This park features public restrooms, picnic tables, and fire rings. While the Reservation has picnic tables and fire rings, fuel wood must be brought into the park unless you're using them for cooking. The Information Center also offers trail maps, but supplies may be limited during busy seasons. The Reservation is connected to the East Branch Trail and River Road. You can walk to these two trails by following the trail in the parking lot.

The park's monument is reminiscent of the Mayflower, the symbol of the Pilgrim ship. In 1850, Nathaniel Hawthorne and Herman Melville enjoyed a picnic here. When a storm dampened their trip, the two writers sought refuge in a cave and engaged in a long discussion. Herman Melville later went on to write the novel Moby-Dick.

The 166-acre Chesterfield Gorge Reservation is managed by the Trustees of Reservations. The gorge is 70 feet deep, carved out of solid granite by glacial action. It is part of a scenic recreation corridor. The Gorge is accessible for hiking or biking. A half-mile railed trail winds along the cliff rims and offers beautiful views of the gorge. You can also see the remains of a historic bridge, known as High Bridge.

If you're thinking about a vacation rental, consider renting a vacation rental property in Chesterfield, Massachusetts. The Trustees of Reservations, a conservation group, has been managing the property since 1929. The Trustees of Reservations maintain the property as a nature reserve. If you'd like to spend time in the woods or on the water, renting a vacation rental is a good way to get out of the city and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of the Gorge.