Pocumtuck Ridge Trail

Pocumtuck Ridge Trail is a protected hiking path that follows a ridgeline between Deerfield and Greenfield, providing views across the Deerfield River and Connecticut River valleys below. The route divides into seven distinct sections clearly marked with blue blazes, with access points and parking available at multiple locations.

The ridgeline was home to the Pocumtuck people until the early 1600s, when they inhabited the Connecticut River Valley and maintained a deep connection to the landscape. The trail's name honors this indigenous presence and keeps their history alive in the region.

The ridgeline holds significance in Native American oral traditions, with a legend describing it as the petrified remains of a giant beaver. This story reflects how the Pocumtuck people connected their mythology to the land itself.

The trail can be tackled in stages since parking areas are spread across different access points, making it flexible for visitors with varying amounts of time. Sturdy hiking boots are recommended because the path varies in steepness, with some sections featuring rocky terrain and significant elevation changes.

The route crosses traprock cliffs formed by ancient volcanic eruptions millions of years ago, creating distinctive dark rock faces along the ridge. These geological features shape the character of the path and set it apart from other trails in the area.