Notchview Reservation | Haverhill

Notchview Reservation is a 310-acre natural area located in Windsor, Massachusetts, managed by The Trustees of Reservations.

Visual Characteristics

The reservation features mixed hardwood and softwood forests, with elevations ranging from 1,400 to 2,100 feet. The terrain includes rocky outcrops, glacial erratics, and a small stream, Cold Brook, which flows through the property. The forest canopy is primarily composed of oak, maple, and pine species.

Location & Access Logistics

Notchview Reservation is situated at 880 East Mountain Road, Windsor, MA 01270. It is approximately 15 miles west of Pittsfield, Massachusetts. Access is via Route 9 West from Pittsfield, turning onto East Mountain Road. A gravel parking lot is available at the main entrance. No public transport services directly reach the reservation.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The land was historically used for farming and logging. The ecological origin is a temperate deciduous forest ecosystem shaped by glacial activity, evident in the scattered large boulders (glacial erratics) and the stream's path. The Trustees of Reservations acquired the property in 1969 to preserve its natural state.

Key Highlights & Activities

Hiking is the primary activity, with 15 miles of marked trails. Specific trails include the 2.5-mile Summit Trail, the 1.8-mile Brook Trail, and the 1.2-mile Ridge Trail. Cross-country skiing is available during winter months on groomed trails. Birdwatching is also a common activity.

Infrastructure & Amenities

A small parking area is present. There are no restrooms or food vendors on-site. Cell phone signal is intermittent to non-existent within the reservation. Limited natural shade is available within the forested areas.

Best Time to Visit

For hiking, late spring through early autumn (May to October) offers the most favorable conditions. Autumn foliage viewing is optimal in late September and early October. Winter offers opportunities for cross-country skiing, typically from December to March, dependent on snowfall.

Facts & Legends

The reservation contains a section of the Appalachian Trail, which passes through its western boundary. A notable feature is the "Devil's Elbow," a sharp bend in one of the trails, named for its challenging incline.

Nearby Landmarks

• Mount Greylock State Reservation (10km Northwest)
• Bash Bish Falls State Park (25km Southwest)
• Hancock Shaker Village (12km West)
• Norman Rockwell Museum (18km West)