* Sites marked with an asterisk are further described
in the ABA Bird Finding Guides to Eastern Massachusetts or the UMASS Cooperative Extension Service’s Bird
Finding Guide to Western Massachusetts.
Berkshires (north to south)
34. Clarksburg State Park: Clarksburg - This remote state park offers tranquility even on summer weekends
and views of shallow ponds where moose are sometimes seen, though geese, herons, and songbirds are far
more common. Accessible picnicking area with pond views. Trails around the pond are partway accessible for
wheelchair users and worth the explore. Park open during summer season only. 413-664-8345.
35. *Mt. Greylock State Reservation: Lanesboro/Adams - The visitor center of this state park, along with the
summit itself are the most accessible parts of this extensive mountain complex. Short excursions are possible
from both locations with panoramic views and interesting birding potential, especially in late spring. The summit,
with spruce/fir forests and grassy fields, offers the possibility of a few species rare in Massachusetts including
Swainson’s thrush and the blackpoll warbler which breed here. Accessible overnight accommodations are
available at Bascom Lodge on the summit.
Visitor center in Lanesboro: 413-499-4262, Bascom Lodge reservations mid-May to late October: 413-743-1591.
36. Ashuwillticook Rail Trail, Dalton to Adams – 11 miles – A 10 foot wide rail trail popular with walkers and
riders. Passes along open and forested along reservoirs and the Housatonic River with wetlands and great
viewing opportunities. Waterfowl, ravens, osprey, and many songbirds can be seen. Park and access at the
Berkshire Mall in Dalton or the town park at Farnam’s Crossing in Cheshire. Benches.
37. *Berkshire Lakes: Pittsfield - A series of lakes and reservoirs in the Pittsfield area are all accessible by
road for car birding and well-known for great waterfowl sightings in spring and fall. Pontoosuc Lake, Hoosac Lake
(also known as the Cheshire Reservoir), Onota Lake, Richmond Pond, and the Stockbridge Bowl are all on or
not far from Routes 7 and 20. For detailed descriptions, consult the ABA Bird Finding Guide to Western
Massachusetts. Viewing scope recommended for best birding.
38. *Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary: Lennox - The All Person’s Trail traverses field habitat and a stone
wall edge to Pike’s Pond, an intricate wetland at the base of a forested mountainside, offering benches and great
birding in spring and fall. Wood ducks and hooded mergansers use nest boxes in the wetland and 65 species
nest throughout. This Massachusetts Audubon sanctuary has wheelchair accessible classrooms and disability
friendly staff. 413-637-0230.
For further information on any of these sites, or if you have a site to add, contact DCR’s Universal
Access Program at 413-545-5758.