mount holyoke

KimberlyB497

I love running in this area, especially around the college. It's always beautiful, in my opinion, but nothing compares to it in the fall. Take a tour of the college - lots of history!

frequentdiner27

We chose to park 1/2 way up and walk up. Delightful climb (1/2 mile or so up) and fantastic views at the top. Plus there are clean bathrooms at the top. Definitely worth the hour or two. And for those who can't walk - drive up to the top and just walk around the deck on the house at the top of the Mountain.

TheSashinator

I love this hike. The trails the views the air the trees. All beautiful. Easy drive and easy hike. Go any time during the year for true New England nature. And it's FREE!

kelifus1

whether you drive to the top or hike the trails or road the reward of getting to the top and seeing those views is always worth it...never get tired of it! always clean and well maintained

emilyc650

First to correct Tripadvisor, Mount Holyoke is actually divided between the towns of Hadley and South Hadley and most of it is in Skinner State Park divided between those two towns (the official address is in the town of Hadley, though large parts of the park are also in South Hadley) and not Holyoke. Next, on to the review.Mount Holyoke in Skinner State park is a place I enjoy hiking, the scenery is fantastic and excellent birdwatching there. In early autumn, hawks converge there before migration, and numerous species can be seen within a short time. At the summit there is an old hotel, no longer in use, but does serve as a visitor center for the park, however it is not always open to the public. The view from the summit was the inspiration for a painting (The Oxbow) by Thomas Cole, which is now on display at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. The hike to the summit is easy, though the trail is not always well marked, which can be frustrating to hikers.Though I checked no fee, it is only for those who choose to park at the bottom, in which I did. Visitors can park at the bottom for free, or near the summit for two dollars.

ProfessorMikey

Just off of Rte 47 a few miles out from the Mt Holyoke college area, also accessible on Rte 47 from Rte 9 in Hadley in the reverse direction, this was a great place to take a quick hike in the woods with gentle climbing to reach a spectacular view of the Connecticut River Valley. There is also a road winding round the mountain for those with limited mobility who may want to drive part way or all the way.

lulubelle3743

The campus and buildings are wonderful. The Science Building is a very unique place. The walk along the falls is a very nice walk, also the greenhouse.

Baxnazzi

The Skinner Summit House is arguably one of the most enjoyable and accessible hikes in the Pioneer Valley. There are a number of trails one can take to the summit, or there is also a road that is accessible by foot year 'round and open to motor vehicles weather permitting. The views of Amherst, Northampton, Holyoke and surrounding towns are not to be missed. On a clear day one can see as far as Hartford and Mt. Monadnock. It is the perfect place for a picnic or to sit with one's thoughts. Restrooms are available during the high season (approx. May - mid October), and though the Summit House itself has been closed for renovations, when it is open it is well worth a visit.

mike1750

Mount Holyoke is a great place for a picnic and it has a great view of the Pioneer Vally. The road to the top is paved and wide enough for 2 cars in most places. The are plenty of parking places at the top though it does get crowded in the fall. If you want to hike to the summit, there are several good trails. There are also picnic tables and grills that can be used. It is not open in the winter months.

HMCSpy

Well worth a visit.All the exercise you need, in just one hike up the mountain!Or just drive to the summit and take in 360 degree views that will knock your socks off. On a clear day you really can see for miles and miles, across some beautiful scenery. In the fall, there is every colour you could dream of.Oh and don't forget to take your camera!

NicoleS711

Went with Mother-in-Law and our Lab and Mini-Aussie. It's an easy hike for kids and elderly, I enjoyed the view as we walked. There were not many bugs at the time which is a bonus, I imagine they bite like nuts now. Pack some water and bug spray!

BerkshiresBarbara

interesting geology. Mt. Tom is all that is left. everything you see around you from the top looking down - is lower because of erosion. This is not a thrust mountain. nice places to have a picnic. My Aunt was a child and watched the original Mt. Tom house burn from across the river where she lived.

sledxl

THis iconic view of the Connecticut river valley and the Oxbow is a wonderful walk or drive. Don't miss. Hikers are cheerfully going up and down on icy winter days as well as during the fabulous fall foliage.

frankfuter

Been going there for 30 years, and it always is a fun and exhilerating hike from whatever trail you take. the trail from thr area of the marina is not used as much and gives a different perspective once the mountain is climed because it is on the right side of the summit road and has a different view. The old house at the top is currently being renovated

EdAnne2

The climb whether walking or in a car is so scenic. The view from the top is full of panoramic settings and allows many states to be seen. It will be better when the Summit Hoouse is repaired however you can see why it was so popular during the early 1900's