Join Bill Randolph and Amanda Kallenbach in a day-long exploration of the different ecological zones of Mt. Greylock, the highest mountain in Massachusetts (3,491 feet). Beginning at the Visitor’s Center (1,600 feet), we'll drive slowly to the summit, with 3–4 stops and short hikes (about ¼ mile walks on mostly level, uneven ground), encountering the mountain's distinct plant communities, all of which attract different species of resident and migratory birds. We’ll look and listen for birds in pollinator meadows, abandoned fruit orchards, mixed deciduous forest and stunted alpine spruce. The summit offers expansive views of the region. We'll have lunch there and spend time watching migrating hawks and other raptors.
Meet at the Greylock Visitor's Center lot (30 Rockwell Rd. in Lanesborough) at 9:00 am. Carpooling from the Visitor's Center to the summit is encouraged, given limited pullouts. Bring water, a packed lunch and bug spray. Restrooms are available in the Visitor's Center (opens at 9:00 am). Extreme weather will cancel - watch your email for any updates. Questions? Email Bill at warandolph@comcast.net or Amanda at amanda.kallenbach@gmail.com. Limited to 12 participants. (E/M)
Field Trip designations:
(E) – Easy conditions, fairly accessible for most, usually flat terrain on improved trails or roads.
(M) – Moderately difficult, more challenging trail conditions, short steep sections, longer hikes involved.
(S) – Strenuous conditions, muddy or rocky trails, steep sections, difficult footing in part.
