Mount Norwottuck is a 3.4 mile lightly trafficked loop trail located near Amherst, Massachusetts that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as moderate. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from March until October. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
dogs on leash
birding
hiking
nature trips
trail running
walking
forest
views
wild flowers
wildlife
Highest peak in the Holyoke range, has commanding views of the entire pioneer valley. The loop for Mt. Norwottuck combines the Robert Frost trail (orange) and the M&M trail (white). Start from the Visitor's Center on the combined Robert Frost trail and M&M Trail (orange & white). Stay left on the Robert Frost (orange) when the M&M splits off. Eventually you will reconnect with the M&M, and there you will stay right on go onto the M&M Trail (white). You will then begin an ascent to the summit through ledges. From the summit continue to follow the M&M trail (white) down and eventually you will rejoin the Robert Frost trail (orange) where you split off on the way up. Stay left on the combined Robert Frost (orange) and M&M trail (white) to get back to the visitor center.
My Grandson & I enjoyed this pet friendly hike that traversed Mt. Norwottuck, the Horse Caves & Rattlesnake Knob. Although this hike is registered under Mt. Norwottuck, it extended well beyond that covering many unnamed trails. (See Recording) DCR has Location Signs(see uploaded photos) at all intersections that make it easy for you to identify your position. Matching the Location Number on the available maps (available at Notch Visitor Center)make navigating the many intersecting trails simple.
This moderate hike will have you huffing on your way to the top of Mt. Norwottuck. A little cardio workout but moderate at best. No scrambling on this hike.
I would highly recommend bug repellent for hikers. The mosquitoes were horrendous. Normally we pick a spot midway through the hike to stop and have lunch. Not on this hike though. The minute you stopped moving, the mosquitoes attacked. It was a great incentive to finish the hike early.
A moderate hike in the amherst area with a variety of views
Great thanksgiving day morning hike! Great views from the top and horse caves very cool. Dogs were challenged to slip through the cave area. Now to some turkey!
Great trail. the only reason I didn't give it a five star is because it can get confusing if it's your first time. The blazing can be done better. I didn't run into major issues but I can see that being one for inexperienced hikers.
Overall great hike, with beautiful views. Well marked. White trail gave an aerobic up with fairly easy bouldering, orange portion of the trail was nice and easy.
Beautiful views, but be careful and keep your eye on the trail markers. We got off track and had to call 911 for assistance. They were extremely helpful, but we wish we hadn't had to trouble them.
I used to hike this every day. it's a great hike.