Trail Map South Section
Trail Map North Section
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Trail Map South Section
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Trail Map North Section
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This is a four mile section of the M-M trail of moderate difficulty. Parking is available at the intersection of Old Holyoke Road and Prospect Road. The M-M trail crosses Prospect Road and immediately climbs, on a narrow foot trail, 300 feet to the ridge of East Mountain then follow the ridge line north along a jeep track. At 0.5 mile you pass the first of three FAA beacons that are perched on hills along the ridge. Scattered vistas to the west will allow you to watch the activity at Barnes Airport. After passing the third beacon you go downhill then uphill to a ledge, at 2 miles, that has a pretty view of nearby Snake Pond and the Berkshires to the west. The trail descends to a woodland road then makes a steep ascent to a bare ledge, at 3 miles, that has a fine view of Hampton Ponds. After climbing down then up yet another ridge, the trail descends and turns east until it intersects Route 202 just west of the Hugh McLean Reservoir.
To make a loop of this hike, continue east on Route 202 past the McLean Reservoir. The trail around the reservoir is posted but the auto road leading to the administration building is not. Follow this road past the building and bear left on a gravel road. This will lead you to Old Westfield Road and Ashley Pond. Walk south along this well maintained road until you reach the southern tip of Ashley Pond. Just across the railroad tracks, and hidden from view, is unpaved Millville Road. Follow it south until it intersects Prospect Road. Turn right onto Prospect Road and follow it southwest until you reach Old Holyoke Road.
 First FAA Beacon |
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