Family Adventure in the Northern Berkshires | MASS MoCA (original) (raw)

For family fun that gets everyone moving, drive south five minutes to Adams, where you can roll onto the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail. An old railroad track that’s been converted into 11.2 miles of a (relatively flat!) paved bike path, the Rail Trail is perfect for cyclists of all ages, novices to experts alike. Bring your own bikes or rent from Village Bike Rentals, steps from the trail. Cycle through the forest and past reservoirs, making your way to our favorite stop along the trail: Whitney’s Farm Market & Garden Center.

A 45-minute bike trip from Adams, Whitney’s is the perfect pit stop to refuel, rest for a beat, and pet as many cute baby animals as possible. With a full deli to choose from, there is something to please even the pickiest eaters in the family. The free petting zoo isn’t just for kids, but the little ones are sure to be enamored by the mini-pony, baby goats, and sheep — have I mentioned there’s a sprawling playground too? Ice cream finishes off this biking break and provides the sugar rush necessary to fuel the ride back to Adams.

Cool off after all that high-energy activity at Windsor Lake. Dive in deep, play in the sand, or just lounge on the grass at North Adams’ hidden gem for outdoor recreation. From June through the end of August, this bucolic view becomes the backdrop for the Concert at the Lake series. Every Wednesday evening hear everything from local folk acts to brass bands to contemporary music masters Bang on a Can.

If you have any hours left in the day, take in the classic American pastime right down the street. While we might be a ways away from Fenway, the North Adams SteepleCats — our city’s own collegiate summertime baseball team — play quite a game. Held at Joe Wolfe Field (not to be confused with MASS MoCA’s Joe’s Field), the games are only a 10-minute walk from downtown, have an affordable entrance fee, and are adjacent to a brand-spankin’-new skate park for any antsy youth in your brood. Watch the sun go down and the lights turn on as the SteepleCats knock them outta the park. Don’t forget to bring a blanket and a picnic spread!