Batholomew's Cobble

Today I was reminded that fall is the best season for hiking.  We had an opportunity today to go hiking with the Brooklyn side of the family.  After spending a getaway night in the Berkshires, Matt, Becky, and Madeline joined us for an outdoor adventure in extreme southwestern Massachusetts.  The location is Bartholomew's Cobble, a Trustees of Reservations property.  Since we're already members (and often take advantage of our membership at Crane Beach), we thought it would be nice to explore one of the other properties on their extensive list.

Once we settled on location, Matt did some research and planned the perfect hike for us.

Despite what the website said, the visitor's center was closed.  So, after a few adjustments, we start out along the scenic trail.  Matt had done some research and had a plan for the hike.

We walk alongside the Housatonic River which snakes back and forth here.
 The river is running pretty high right now due to some recent rains.

Madeline's having a grand time riding on Daddy's back.

There were interpretive signs along some portions of the trail.

Almost everybody in this "selfie".

In this "selfie", I include the "Rock Outcrop" which is noted prominently on the trail map.

It's not the Rockies, but there are actual mountains in the Berkshires.  

Usually one  step OVER a log that has fallen across the trail.

It's a little after 12pm at this point, and you can tell by the length of the shadows that's its autumn.

Lots and lots of fallen leaves getting stuck on the end of my trekking poles. 

This is a long path up to Hurlburt's Hill.  Grasshoppers were jumping in front of our shoes with every step.

The payoff for the climb is this great view.

With a panorama  photo, you get an even better sense of the expansive landscape.

This photo shows color and suggests texture as well.

We take a rest and snack break at the benches on the hill top.  About 50 meters behind us is the Connecticut state line.

Feeling good at the top of the hill.

 After our break, we have a straight-line walk back to the visitor's center and our car.  The hike is a modest 3.27 miles done in 2:11.  With the climb up Hurlburt's Hill, our total elevation gain as 682'.

The parking lot at the visitor's center was quite full when we arrived back.  We pack up and head into Sheffield for a late lunch.  Matt's chosen Bash Bish Brew & Que, a small establishment on the main street.  The atmosphere was laid-back and the food was very good:  brisket, pulled pork, greet beans, cole slaw, and local beer.  Betsy brought gluten free German Black Forest cupcakes to celebrate Matt's birthday.  A fitting end for a beautiful fall day in the Berkshires.