Pittsfield State Forest

Dogs Unknown

E-Bikes Allowed

This ride covers all of Pittsfield State Forest with an out-and-back on the Taconic Skyline Trail plus a small loop on the southern end.

Start at the Potter Mountain trailhead and climb steeply out of the gate on Churchill Brook Trail. Just before topping out, turn left on the Taconic Skyline Trail. A few more pedal strokes take you to the top of this climb (one of many) before a quick descent across Shamrock Blvd.

Another punchy climb brings you to a short respite as you pass Berry Pond, the highest pond in Massachusetts. As you pedal south, you'll be headed generally downhill through a landscape of mixed hardwood forests and wet meadows.

Stay left on the C.C.C. Trail and get ready for a raucous descent to the Shaker Brook Trail. Stay right here and pedal back up gradually to the Taconic Skyline Trail.

Stay right at the intersection and then retrace your route back to the Churchill Brook Trail. Turn right here and enjoy the descent back to the Potter Mountain trailhead.

The Taconic Skyline Trail was originally built as a hiking trail by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. After falling into disrepair, it was reclaimed in the the 1990s as a multi-use trail.