The M-M trail between Mt. Holyoke (940 ft.) and Bare Mt. (1014 ft.) is a remarkably strenuous 4.2 mile hike over some very rugged terrain. The elevation difference is only 74 feet but the climb along he trail is closer to 1500 feet. Both mountains afford excellent 360^o vistas of the surrounding area. There are scattered views to the north along the way.

Starting at the Suummit House at the top of Mt. Holyoke the trail descends to the auto access road at Taylor Notch. Immediately, you begin the first of many steep climbs as you traverse the series of peaks known as the Seven Sisters. There are good views to the west and north after the first and second climbs. After that, the trail makes a relentless series of steep descents followed by equally steep climbs, with views.

The trail makes a steep descent from the Seven Sisters to The Low Place, the blue blazed Parker Trail enters from the north and exits as the Low Place Trail going south. The M-M trail now makes a 400 foot ascent to the summit of Mt. Hitchcock (1002 ft.). The observation tower has collapsed and is on the ground, but there is a good view north from the ledges. From here it is a comparatively easy 1.3 mile hike to the top of, the eponymous, Bare Mt. From the bare rock summit there are views in all directions. The large mountain to the west is Mt. Norwottuck. At 1106 ft., it's the highest in the Holyoke Range. The Notch Visitors center along Route 116 can be seen and can be reached via a very steep descent.

Be sure to save half your energy for the return trip. There is no practical way hike back to Mt. Holyoke except by retracing your steps.

First Overlook - View NW	View West - Mt. Tom to Mt. Holyoke
Second Overlook - View NE	View North from Mt. Hitchcock
View West from Mt. Hitchcock	Bare Mt. - Bemused Hiker, Quarry, Mt. Norwottuck
View North from Bare Mt.	It's A Steep Descent to The Notch Visitors Center