Trail Notices and Updates
As of Wednesday, May 27th all DCR motorized recreation trails are open for use.
DCR is reopening Off Highway Vehicle (OHV) trails in Tolland and October Mt. State Forests on Wednesday, May 27th, 2009. Pittsfield and Beartown State Forests reopened to OHV use on Saturday, May, 23rd. These and other DCR properties were devasted by the December 2008 ice storm and DCR staff, contractors and volunteers from numerous organizations and individuals invested thousands of hours clearing broken limbs and fallen trees from the trail corridors. DCR extends its heartfelt thanks to all of the individuals and organizations who have given so much to keep these trails available to the general public. We especially thank the following organizations for their assistance during the recent storm clean up:
Appalachian Mountain Club
Appalachian Trail Committee
Berkshire Trail Riders
Berkshire Trails Council
Knox Trail Riders
New England ATV Association
New England Mountain Bike Association
New England Trail Rider Association
Northeast ATVers
Pathfinders
Snowmobile Association of Massachusetts
Taconic Crest Trail Council
Western Mass ATV Association
DCR appreciates the patience and cooperation of all trail enthusiasts who have been delayed in enjoying the extensive trail systems in these forests. We urge caution and your ongoing patience as you return to these trails where you will often find a changed landscape. The evidence of the storm's devastation is prevalent throughout the forests and the piles of debris removed from the trail corridor are often only a few feet from the trail's edge. The impacts of the 2008 ice storm will be evident in these forests for years to come.
Pittsfield State Forest
DCR has temporarily closed a portion of the Taconic Skyline Trail for bridge work. The closed section is between Churchill Trail and Daniels Trail. Please do not use this section of trail while we make improvements to protect natural resources and sustainable riding opportunities.
Tolland State Forest
DCR has closed the Farmington River Trail north of the Sawmill Trail to ORV/OHV use to protect regulated wetland resources along the Farmington River. Please use the Sawmill Trail to access East Otis Road. Please note that Tolland's motorized trails are best suited to MGL c. 90 registered motorcycles (motorcycles registered and equipped to ride on public roads). Many Tolland trails merge with public ways where ATV use is prohibited. ATV riders will find more suitable trails in Beartown, October Mt. and Pittsfield State Forests.
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