Mount Everett State Reservation facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mount Everett State Reservation |
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 Mount Everett State Reservation
Location in Massachusetts
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| Location | Mount Washington, Sheffield, Berkshire, Massachusetts, United States |
| Area | 2,492 acres (10.08 km2) |
| Elevation | 2,602 ft (793 m) |
| Established | 1908 |
| Operator | Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation |
| Website | Mount Everett State Reservation |
Mount Everett State Reservation is a fun outdoor area in Massachusetts. It's located in the towns of Mount Washington and Sheffield. From the top of Mount Everett, which is about 2,624 feet high, you can see amazing views. You can even see parts of Connecticut and New York! This park is managed by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation. It's also next to other cool places like Jug End State Reservation and Wildlife Management Area and Bash Bish Falls State Park.
Contents
History of the Park
How Mount Everett State Reservation Started
The idea for Mount Everett State Reservation began in 1908. The state government, called the state legislature, created a special group. This group was named the Mount Everett Reservation Commission.
Buying the Land
The commission was given $5,000 to buy land. This land was in the towns of Mount Washington and Sheffield. The goal was to create a beautiful public park. By 1912, they had bought 815 acres. This was a little more than half of the land they planned to get.
Who Manages the Park Now?
In 1975, the commission was no longer needed. The job of managing the park was given to another group. This group was the Department of Natural Resources. Today, the park is managed by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation.
Exploring Old Forests
What is an Old-Growth Forest?
An old-growth forest is a very old forest. The trees there have grown for a long time. They have not been cut down or disturbed by people. These forests are important for many plants and animals.
Trees You Can Find
Mount Everett State Reservation has about 530 acres of old-growth forest. Most of it is on the east side of Mount Everett. You can see many types of trees here.
- Eastern hemlock
- Eastern white pine
- Sugar maple
- Red maple
- White oak
- Northern red oak
- American beech
- Sweet birch
- Yellow birch
Special Trees on the Summit
The very top of Mount Everett has a unique forest. It's a dwarf forest, meaning the trees are smaller. Here, you'll find Pitch pine and Bear oak. This part of the forest has been mostly untouched for hundreds of years. Only a fire tower and some trails have changed it.
Fun Things to Do
Hiking and Skiing Adventures
The famous Appalachian Trail goes right through the park. It crosses the top of Mount Everett from south to north. There are also other trails for you to explore. You can go hiking on these trails. In winter, they are great for cross-country skiing.
Picnics and Canoeing at Guilder Pond
If you like water activities, visit Guilder Pond. It's a perfect spot for a picnic with your family or friends. You can also enjoy canoeing on the pond. It's a peaceful way to see the park's beauty.
