- Snowmobile trails take advantage of the wintery mix.snowmobile trail -4 image by Rog999 from Fotolia.com
In Massachusetts, the state forests and parks delegate summer hiking trails and some paved roads into snowmobile trails for the winter season. The Code of Massachusetts Regulations permits snowmobiling when the hard-packed snow base is at least four inches thick. Each snowmobile operator must be at least 12 years old to drive over any Massachusetts Department property. Snowmobilers can shoot through the trees at high-speed and enjoy the snowy landscapes at a variety of trails in Massachusetts. - At Beartown State Forest, snowmobiling is permitted on the popular 1.5-mile Benedict Pond Loop that circles around the 35-acre Lake Benedict near the forest's main entrance. From the lake, the snowmobile-accessible Wildcat Trail heads north for approximately 4.5 miles and then cuts east over Benedict Pond Road onto Berbe and Sky Peak trails. These two snowmobiling trails are approximately five miles long. Turkey Trail goes through the forest's center and intercepts with Airplane Trail, which extends far east to the opposite end of the main gate at Beartown Mountain Road. Keep in mind that the forest closes daily at sunset and this is a well-established black bear area. Parking is available in the Benedict Pond day-use lot.
- Mount Greylock is Massachusett's highest peak at 3,491 feet, according to the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation. Snowmobiling along the scenic passes at this reservation provides an adventurous run. There are more than 70 miles of trails that are designated for summer and winter activities including snowmobiling. Tour the 11.5 miles of Appalachian National Scenic Trail located within the reservation's border. Snowmobile over automobile roads as well as trails, and ride in the reservation after sunset. Parking is available for snowmobilers in Greylock Glen located on West Mountain Road, the Notch Road Gate in Adams, and in Lanesborough's Visitor Center.
- Head north to central Massachusetts to Otter River State Forest for snowmobiling on more than a dozen designated roads and trails weaving through the forest. Ride around Lake Dennison on the Wilder-McKenze Nature Trail on the eastern side of the forest. Over to the west, take a trip along the smaller Beaver Pond on Swamp Road. Tour the Birch Hill Dam or run next to Millers River that flows through the entire forest. Yurt camping facilities are available for overnight snowmobiling excursions, or stay in one of the 85 campsites. Keep in mind that camping season ends in mid-October.
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