October Mountain State Forest facts for kids
Quick facts for kids October Mountain State Forest |
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Finerty Pond in October Mountain State Forest (Becket, Massachusetts).
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 October Mountain State Forest
Location in Massachusetts
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| Location | Becket, Lee, Lenox, Washington, Berkshire, Massachusetts, United States |
| Area | 16,460 acres (66.6 km2) |
| Elevation | 1,841 ft (561 m) |
| Established | 1915 |
| Governing body | Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation |
| Website | October Mountain State Forest |
October Mountain State Forest is a huge forest and outdoor area in Massachusetts. It covers about 16,460-acre (6,660 ha) of land. This makes it the largest state forest in Massachusetts!
Most of the forest is in the town of Washington. Parts of it also reach into Becket, Lee, and Lenox. The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation takes care of this special place.
Contents
History of October Mountain Forest
This large forest became state property in 1915. It was bought from the family of William C. Whitney. He used to be the Secretary of the Navy for President Grover Cleveland.
How the Forest Was Purchased
The state first bought 11,000 acres (4,500 ha) of land. This cost $60,000. Some local people from the Berkshire area helped raise money for the purchase. The forest was opened to the public in the same year, 1915.
Where the Name "October Mountain" Came From
The famous writer Herman Melville is said to have named "October Mountain." He lived in Pittsfield and could see the mountain from his home.
Fun Activities at October Mountain
October Mountain State Forest is a great place for outdoor adventures! There are many trails and areas to explore.
Trails for Exploring
You can go hiking and mountain biking on the forest trails. In winter, you can even go cross-country skiing. Some trails are also open for off-road vehicles.
- Washington Mountain Marsh Trail: This trail is about 2.7-mile (4.3 km) long. It's an "interpretive trail," which means it has signs to teach you about nature.
- Appalachian Trail: A small part of the famous Appalachian Trail goes through the forest.
- Schermerhorn Gorge: You can find a beautiful trail that goes through this scenic gorge.
Camping and Water Fun
The forest has 47 campsites where you can stay overnight. Some of these sites are even designed to be easy for people using wheelchairs.
You can also enjoy the water here.
- Boating: You can go boating without a motor.
- Fishing: It's a good spot for fishing.
- Hunting: There is also some hunting allowed, but with rules.
Geography of October Mountain
The forest is located in the Hoosac Range. This is a mountain range on the western side of the central Berkshire area.
Key Features of the Forest
- October Mountain: This is a ridge that rises sharply above the Housatonic River valley. It's the highest point in the forest.
- Uplands Area: The middle part of the forest is a higher area. It has several reservoirs (places that store water) and the Washington Mountain Marsh.
- Washington Mountain: On the eastern side of the forest, there's another, lower ridge called Washington Mountain.
