Western MA Exchange Archive
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Bad Plant!
Giant Hogweed
[11‑Jun‑2024] Beware of the beautiful weed that can cause blindness and burns. Image by Fritz Geller-Grimm on Wikipedia. BDN »
Laurel Day 2024
[09‑Jun‑2024] It was a beautiful afternoon at the AMC Noble View Outdoor Center as we continued the long tradition of Laurel Day with hikes to view the mountain laurels in full bloom, a chili supper and some strawberry shortcake. Thanks to all who came to celebrate with us and to all the volunteers who made it happen! PHOTOS »
Hut-to-Hut Around the World
AMC Weekend Feature
[09‑Jun‑2024] For more than a century, AMC has given the world the opportunity to explore pristine alpine terrain by day and spend nights in our famed high mountain huts. But we're not the only ones. Story by Matt Morris; photo by Douglas Scortegagna on Flickr Commons. AMC OUTDOORS BLOG »
It Looked Like Spilt Milk
[05‑Jun‑2024] This month's StoryWalk® at AMC's Noble View Outdoor Center is "It Looked Like Spilt Milk" by Charles Green Shaw. Originally published in 1947, this picture book features a series of changing white images on a blue background and the reader is asked to guess what the image is. You can check out this story as you walk the new, all-person's trail at Noble View, lined at this time of year with the beautiful mountain laurels that are now blooming.
Hiking, Chili and Chillin’ on Laurel Day
June 8, 2024 3:00-7:00 PM
[05‑Jun‑2024] Join us at Noble View Outdoor Center to enjoy the spring mountain laurels in bloom! Old and new friends of Noble View are invited to drop by for an hour or stay the afternoon at this event that commemorates the early history of Noble View and the Western MA Chapter of the Appalachian Club (formerly Berkshire Chapter). Rain date is June 9, 2024. 
Urgent Action Needed
[05‑Jun‑2024] There was a great turnout at the Silvio O. Conte Nature Preserve All Persons Trail last Saturday for National Trails Day! This event was held to raise awareness of the Trails for All Bill which supports the expansion of accessible opportunities in the outdoors. Contact key Massachusetts Senate members and ask them to send the bill to the Senate floor for a vote. LEARN MORE »TrailsFest
[03‑Jun‑2024] Lots of fun at TrailsFest National Trails Day celebration at Wachusett Mountain on Saturday - guided hikes, music, food, and hobnobbing with fellow outdoor enthusiasts! PHOTOS »
Reducing Stress Outdoors
AMC Weekend Feature
[02‑Jun‑2024] Study after study has shown that spending time in nature reduces the stress hormone cortisol, among many other benefits. One way to experience this is through forest bathing. Story by Matt Morris; photo by Dean Cerrati, AMC Photo Contest. AMC OUTDOORS BLOG »
Bears, Waterfalls, and Slippers
[01‑Jun‑2024] The Tuesday hikers were thrilled on this week's hike at the Mary Edward's Mountain Property in Granby with two bear sightings - one that was running in the woods and a mama bear and her cub crossing the street as the group was leaving. The hike also featured a waterfall, Lady's Slippers and gorgeous Hellebore. To join this group, which hikes every Tuesday, or any of our guided hikes, bike rides, or climbing outings, visit our Chapter Activities page. Hope to see you outside!
National Trails Day 2024
[01‑Jun‑2024] National Trails Day occurs on the first Saturday in June and recognizes the benefits federal, state and local trails provide for recreation and exposure to nature. Explore some of our member's favorite trails on our interactive maps. MEMBER FAVORITES »Spring 2024 »
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