Pine Mountain & Tilden Swamp(Pittsfield State Forest-Berkshires)

Had a free afternoon to get out, so headed over to the nearby Pittsfield State Forest to revisit Pine Mountain and high elevation Tilden Swamp on a blustery, overcast, and cool fall day.  Parked in the small lot across from the ski lodge (Elevation 1163 feet) and headed west, following various trails that climb up the steep slopes of the mountain.  Although many trees have already shed their leaves, fall color is still quite nice in much of the woods, making for perfect hiking.

A flat section of trail along Pine Mountain's summit area.

Near the summit of Pine Mountain, at about 2220 feet, a stone town boundary marker can be found denoting the spot where Pittsfield and Hancock meet.

 

Just prior to a steep drop down the west slopes of the summit area, a small clearing provides a nice view NW over Tilden Swamp and towards the hills of NY in the distance.

A slightly lower vantage point allowed me to take in the unnamed hill just north of Tilden Swamp, ablaze in fall color.

After a short, steep drop, I continued my way on a carpet of fallen leaves, turning right at two forks on my way over to Tilden Swamp.

Skies began to clear just long enough to provide nice reflections on beautiful Tilden Swamp. 

Looking north towards a beaver hut, which was very active!  An ornery beaver didn't like my presence much, as he smacked his tail several times to get rid of me.

Given the time of day-and the mostly cloudy conditions, I found that the views north from the south shore were the best...even though this spot sits well off trail.

From the dammed outlet of the swamp, I turned east, picking up the colorful Parker Brook Trail.

The Parker Brook Trail is quite steep as it descends, high above the steep walls of the ravine carved out by the creek.  It's hard to get down to the brook and its several small cascades without a little effort, but down lower it is easier to access some of them. 

Way down low, near the park road, I hit the paved Tranquility Trail which I followed back to the car.  A nice 4.3 miles RT, with 900 feet of ascent along the way.  Only saw a couple other people out on this cool, brisk day.