Mohawk Trail

Mohawk Trail State Forest encompasses 6,457 acres in the Deerfield River valley of northwestern Massachusetts, featuring dramatic gorges, old-growth forest, and connections to the historic Mohawk Trail scenic route.

The large forest supports black bear, moose, bobcat, and fisher. The Deerfield River hosts excellent trout populations. Rare species including timber rattlesnakes inhabit rocky areas.

The forest contains significant old-growth character, with some trees exceeding 300 years. Northern hardwoods dominate at higher elevations. Hemlock groves line the river gorges.

The Deerfield River carved dramatic gorges through resistant metamorphic rocks. The dramatic terrain reflects millions of years of erosion through ancient mountain roots.

The Berkshire location produces cool summers and cold, snowy winters. The river valley can trap cold air, creating significant frost pockets.

The Mohawk Trail followed ancient Native American travel routes. The scenic highway became one of America's first tourist roads in the early automobile era.

The state began acquiring forest land in the 1920s. Civilian Conservation Corps workers developed the campground and facilities during the 1930s.

The Mahican-Mohawk Trail traverses old-growth forest. The Cold River gorge provides dramatic scenery. The campground offers riverside sites. Winter activities include cross-country skiing.

The campground offers 56 sites. Day-use areas provide picnic facilities. The forest is accessible via Route 2 (Mohawk Trail), approximately 30 miles west of Greenfield.

The forest protects significant old-growth forest, increasingly rare in New England. Management maintains forest health while preserving ancient trees.