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Outdoor Activities & Sports

Western Massachusetts

Western Massachusetts was made for outdoor activities and sports. The Berkshire Mountains is the ideal locale for rock climbing, skiing and snowboarding, white water rafting, fishing, kayaking and more. State parks and forests, along with rural landscapes, make camping and hiking readily available. Rail trails offer great terrain for biking. And rolling hills offer golfers an opportunity to test their skills. In short, you'll find everything that makes being on vacation a...well...a vacation.

Adventure Trips

If you opt for adventure, this area will suit you well: find kayaking on the Deerfield River, rock climbing in the Berkshires and even hot-air balloon flights and instruction with Balloon School of Massachusetts, in Greater Springfield.

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Beaches

You won't find the ocean in Western Massachusetts, but you will find beaches. From the Congamond Lakes to Lake Wyola State Park to Savoy Mountain State Forest, many beaches are available to swim, boat and sunbathe.

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Biking

Biking along a rail trail is a great way to see and experience some of the more distinctive parts of this area. For instance, on the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail, you'll take in spectacular views of Mount Greylock and on the Norwottuck rail trail, you can cross the Connecticut River on a half-mile railroad bridge in Northampton.

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Camping

Pitch a tent by the scenic Hubbard River, rent a cabin along the Appalachian Trail or stay in a trailer off in the Mohawk Trail State Forest. Whatever you decide, you'll find each campsite offers its own unique take on the great outdoors.

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Golf

With renowned courses featuring inovative course designs — at locations such as Crumpin-Fox Club and the Oak Ridge Golf Club — along with challenging rolling hills, this part of the state is a destination for golfers far and wide.

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Skiing/Snowboarding

Welcome to the heart of Massachusetts ski country. Throughout the Berkshires, at areas like Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort, you'll find a wide range of challenging terrain as well as beginner trails and helpful instructional courses. Are you a cross-country skiing enthusiast? Start with Canterbury Farm Cross Country Ski Area and Maple Corner Farm Cross-Country Ski Center.

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Sports Teams & Venues

Calling all sports fanatics...Springfield Falcons minor league hockey, the Basketball Hall of Fame and the University of Massachusetts as well as a host of other colleges are all located in this area of the state.

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State Parks & Forests

Here, state parks and forests are ideal place to visit all year. You'll find spectacular mountain views at Clarksburg State Park, pure relaxation beside Laurel Lake at Erving State Forest and miles of hiking along rocky summits in the Mt. Holyoke Range State Park.

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Water Sports

Go really fast? Or take it nice and slow? On the Deerfield River, whitewater rafting, canoeing and kayaking all reign supreme. Note: For lessons, supplies and tours, call Crab Apple Whitewater, North American Whitewater, Zoar Outdoor and Sportsman's Marina Boat Rental.

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Winter Fun

When it's cold out, this area is just heating up. Get ice climbing lessons from Mountains Unlimited. Go tubing at Snowy Owl Resort. Give snowshoeing a try at Northfield Mountain. Or take things slow and enjoy a horse-drawn sleigh ride at Hollow Brook Farms or Ioka Valley Farm.

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Featured Cities

Northampton:

This college town has a thriving arts scene, hip cafes and a funky, carefree spirit.

Find: Lodging | Attractions

Deerfield:

Historic Deerfield boasts a mile-long street, lined with 18th- and 19th-century houses.

Find: Lodging | Attractions

Stockbridge:

Norman Rockwell described this quiet town as "the best of America, the best of New England."

Find: Lodging | Attractions

Featured Attractions

Basketball Hall of Fame

This family favorite in Springfield offers three levels of historical exhibits, interactive activities and a fun shootout area. Learn more>>

Yankee Candle

The flagship store in South Deerfield includes events, shops and even a dip-your-own candle area. Learn more>>

The Mount, Edith Wharon’s Estate & Gardens

Discover The Mount. Tour the house and gardens, enjoy lunch on the terrace, Learn more>>

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