Did a short hike to an obscure cliff with great views in the Berkshires after work. Visited Barton's Ledge Wildlife Management Area in the town of Lanesborough on a breezy November afternoon. Parked on the shoulder of Old Williamstown Road(Elevation 1335 feet) near the bridge over Town Brook, and then proceeded to walk the short distance on the road to the yellow blazes of the WMA. Once in the woods, I picked up a good farm road that heads north through an open meadow.
The road turns sharply east at one point and enters an area of prickers and low brush. From there I bushwhacked up the steep slopes that lead towards Barton's Ledge.
Circling over to the impressive area of open ledges, with a sheer drop off below.
View from Barton's Ledge looking SW towards The Noppet and Widows White Peak.
West views take in the bulk of Brodie Mountain across the valley of Route 7. Although you are only around 1600 feet in elevation, you feel as if you are much higher.
After enjoying the views, I dropped down below the ledges, capturing some really nice views of just how impressive they are.
Directly below part of Barton's Ledge.
An easy walk back to the car made for a short but fun little hike. 1.4 miles RT, with 320 feet of ascent.
Map Below. Red P=Parking Red X=Ledge
I like the appended map which shows the parking place and view points. Are you using a CalTopo "MapbuilderTopo" preset?
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