Winter Activities

Charlotte Weiskotten, Senior Editor-in-Chief

During the dark, cool, months of winter, many individuals feel isolated and bored. And with more rain than snow lately, the days feel tiresome. However, with plenty of outdoor resources and gathering places, the Berkshires have a strong array of activities to make the winter an enjoyable season rather than a gloomy one. 

Perhaps most known are snowsports. With eight winter resorts, including Jiminy Peak and Bousquet within an hour’s drive from Pittsfield, skiing and snowboarding are popular excursions. Bousquet Mountain offers a Summit pass, which allows you to access its chairlifts year-round, as well as Catamount and Berkshire East Mountains. You can spend an entire day on the mountain, learning tricks, racing down black diamonds, or learning on the bunny slope. If you find yourself getting too chilly, each resort has comfortable lodging to warm up and get a bite to eat. 

If skiing and snowboarding are not your forte, the outdoors still have plenty to offer. Grab some boots and/or snowshoes and set out on the countless trails Berkshire County has to offer. The Old Mill Trail in Hinsdale is particularly picturesque in the winter. For a more intense hike, grab a sled and walk up Clapp Park for some thrilling sledding. 

Although winter has countless options outdoors, many individuals prefer the warmth of the indoors. Inside entertainment can be found in learning new foods or desserts to prepare. In addition, local clubs like the YMCA and Boys and Girls Club offer swimming, basketball, and even ice skating. For whatever hobby you may practice, there are an array of activities to enjoy.