Hadley, Massachusetts Reservoir Day Trip
Welcome to Hadley, Massachusetts Reservoir
This mini blog helps you discover a quiet and beautiful hidden gem in Hampshire County, Massachusetts across the road from the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art and next to Hampshire College.
It’s definitely worth a quick stop when in the greater Amherst area as you can easily & quicly reach the reservoir pond for beautiful, tranquil nature views.
How to get to Hadley, Massachusetts Reservoir |
On Bay Road directly across from the Eric Carle Museum, park on the small dirt pull off (room for three to four vehicles) at the intersection of Bay Road and Reservoir Road. Only residents with parking permits can park on the road leading to the trailhead.
These coordinates take you directly to the small pull off.
What to see at Hadley Reservoir
Part of the Chmura Road Mountain Bike and Hiking Trails network, walk an easy .3 mile woodlands loop trail from the trailhead (a metal gate that’s about one block’s distance on Reservoir Road from parking) to the reservoir pond.
Look for the first (or second) right-hand cut through trail after about .1 mile past the gate. In a short distance you’’ll reach an opening through the woods and the reservoir shore.
A tranquil late autumn view of Hadley Reservoir pond surrounded by rustic fall foliage
Along the reservoir shore, there’s a mainly flat dirt path you can follow. I like walking right following the shoreline to the small overlook with the metal railing for sky and fall foliage reflections.
Hadley Reservoir is a popular spot for fishing and swimming in warmer months, and you may also see dog walkers too. I recommend visiting in the afternoon on a bright day with some clouds to see beautiful reflections.
From here there are several unmarked woodlands trails, ranging from easy to challenging, you can pick up for a longer hike or mountain biking. If you are in the area visiting the Eric Carle Museum or greater Amherst, I definitely recommend a quick stop to see Hadley Reservoir’s tranquil fall views.
A beautiful autumn afternoon reflection at Hadley Reservoir in Hadley, Massachusetts
This spot is great for families with young kids who are looking for easy nature outings and landscape photographers.
You can make your visit a day trip too by also taking a leisurely walk at Alexandra Dawson Conservation Area along the Connecticut River. This easy, flat grassy walking path is a great spot for sunset views and walking your dog (also great for young kids).
Have you visited Hadley Reservoir in autumn? What’s your favorite hiking trail or state park in Hadley and Amherst for beautiful nature?
Leave a comment below to share your experience.
