Mount Tom State Reservation Massachusetts
Scenic state park with diverse trails, hawk watching, fishing, and intriguing abandoned structures.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant foliage, crisp air
Mount Tom State Reservation Massachusetts
Best Time
Vibrant foliage, crisp air
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Scenic state park with diverse trails, hawk watching, fishing, and intriguing abandoned structures.
"A beautiful hiking spot with stunning views, great for all outdoor activities year-round."
🥾 Trail Variety
Explore diverse trails, from steep and rocky to moderate. Great for all hiking levels!
📸 Photo Opportunities
Bring your camera for stunning summit views and unique abandoned structures.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hawk Watching Haven
Summit Area
Witness the spectacular annual hawk migration. A premier spot for birdwatching enthusiasts.
Panoramic Summit Views
Summit
Breathtaking views of Easthampton, Northampton, and the greater Western Massachusetts landscape.
Abandoned Ski Lodge
Woods
Explore the intriguing remnants of a historic ski lodge, offering a unique urban exploration experience.
Lake and Stream Exploration
Various locations
Discover serene lakes and babbling streams scattered throughout the densely wooded park.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Navigating Trails and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Trail Variety
Explore diverse trails, from steep and rocky to moderate. Great for all hiking levels!
📸 Photo Opportunities
Bring your camera for stunning summit views and unique abandoned structures.
🎣 Family Fishing
Kids love fishing here! Pack your gear for a fun day by the water.
🚗 Ample Parking
Don't worry about parking; there's plenty available for visitors.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Trail Variety
Explore diverse trails, from steep and rocky to moderate. Great for all hiking levels!
📸 Photo Opportunities
Bring your camera for stunning summit views and unique abandoned structures.
🎣 Family Fishing
Kids love fishing here! Pack your gear for a fun day by the water.
🚗 Ample Parking
Don't worry about parking; there's plenty available for visitors.
📱 Good Mobile Coverage
Enjoy reliable cell service throughout much of the park.
⚠️ Graffiti Alert
Be aware of graffiti on rocks and buildings in some areas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Mount Tom State Reservation for its stunning scenic views, diverse hiking trails, and accessibility. Many appreciate the opportunity for activities like fishing and hawk watching, making it a versatile destination for families and nature lovers alike. Some note the presence of graffiti and remnants of old buildings, which can detract from the natural beauty for some, but also add a unique character for others.
"Mount Tom is an amazing collection of hiking trails with beautiful views of the surrounding area. Just a mile off of Route 91 in Holyoke MA, this beautiful hiking spot is very accessible year round for whatever outdoor activity you enjoy in the densely wooded park. The Ridge Trail is my favorite offering lots of views of Easthampton, Northampton and greater western mass. It’s urban location is both a blessing (great mobile coverage and amenities nearby) and curse (at least a dozen radio towers, remnants of old buildings and widespread, graffiti on the rocks and buildings). I highly recommend checking out this park and it was worth the hour and 45 minute drive from my house north of Boston."
Sarah-Paul McCarty
"This place is absolutely fantastic. Not to mention that it’s massive. There is a beautiful lake and several streams you can find along the forest. If you like hiking, there are plenty of trails that you can take and some of them lead to the summit of Mt Tom. They are also picnic areas and restrooms that are accessible to anybody. This place is also mostly wheelchair friendly. Had a fantastic time using my camera to take some amazing photos. 10 out of 10 recommend coming here."
Alexander Martinez
"What an absolutely beautiful park that boasts many trails! A great escape from the hustle and bustle.
Every time you go there’s a new trail, tower, waterfall or view to see. Since it’s so versatile you can bring kids and dogs. There is ample parking.
Excited to go back!"
Julie Limback
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mount Tom State Reservation is conveniently located just a mile off Route 91 in Holyoke, Massachusetts. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available for visitors.
While the reservation is close to Holyoke, direct public transport options to the park entrance might be limited. It's best to check local bus routes or consider ride-sharing services if you're not driving.
From Route 91, take the Holyoke exit and follow signs for Mount Tom State Reservation. The park entrance is well-marked and easily visible from the main road.
Yes, there is ample parking available at Mount Tom State Reservation, making it easy for visitors to access the trails and amenities.
Mount Tom State Reservation is accessible year-round, including winter. You can enjoy activities like skiing, fishing, and skating, weather permitting.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Typically, state reservations like Mount Tom do not have an entrance fee for general access. However, specific activities or parking during peak seasons might incur charges. It's always a good idea to check the official Massachusetts State Parks website for the most current information.
Mount Tom State Reservation is generally open from dawn to dusk year-round. Specific facilities like restrooms or visitor centers may have limited hours.
No, advance ticket booking is generally not required for entry into Mount Tom State Reservation. It's a public park, and you can typically visit without prior reservations.
While generally open, there might be temporary closures due to weather conditions or maintenance. It's advisable to check local advisories before your visit.
The abandoned ski lodge is accessible as part of the park's trails. However, exercise caution as these are remnants of old structures and may not be maintained.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Ridge Trail is highly recommended for its stunning views of the surrounding areas. There are also more moderate trails available, catering to different fitness levels.
Absolutely! Mount Tom is a premier spot for hawk-watching, especially during the annual migration season in the fall.
Yes, Mount Tom State Reservation offers picnic areas, making it a great spot for a family outing or a leisurely lunch amidst nature.
Yes, fishing is a popular activity at Mount Tom State Reservation, with a beautiful lake and several streams available for anglers.
Parts of Mount Tom State Reservation are wheelchair friendly, particularly some of the main paths and picnic areas. However, many trails can be steep and rocky.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers panoramic views perfect for landscape photography. Don't miss the chance to capture the unique atmosphere of the abandoned ski lodge and other remnants.
Landscape photography is very popular due to the scenic vistas. Urban exploration photography is also a draw for those interested in the abandoned structures.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage might require permits. Always check park regulations.
Golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offer the best lighting for landscape shots. Midday can be harsh but is good for capturing details of abandoned structures.
Yes, graffiti is present in some areas and can be photographed, though it's part of the park's current state rather than a historical feature.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
With picnic areas available, you can easily plan a full day of exploration and relaxation. While some trails can be steep, there are more moderate options that are manageable for younger children. The accessible nature of the park, combined with its natural beauty, makes it a great choice for a family adventure.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Beyond hiking, the reservation is a haven for nature lovers. The chance to witness the fall hawk migration is a significant draw for birdwatchers, and the presence of lakes and streams adds to the natural allure. It's a place where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of Western Massachusetts.
📸 Photographers and Urban Explorers
Remember to be respectful of the environment and any historical significance when photographing these sites. The combination of natural beauty and intriguing decay makes Mount Tom a compelling location for capturing diverse and striking images.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historic Mount Tom Railroad
The railroad transported guests to the Summit House, a grand hotel built in 1897. Although the Summit House was rebuilt after a fire in 1901, the railway itself eventually ceased operations, leaving behind only the memory and historical accounts of this remarkable engineering feat. Exploring the reservation today offers a glimpse into a past era of tourism and innovation.
Exploring the Abandoned Structures
These decaying buildings, often adorned with graffiti, offer a stark contrast to the surrounding nature and provide a unique photographic opportunity. Visitors are advised to exercise caution when exploring these areas, as they are not maintained and can be structurally unsound. The presence of these remnants adds a layer of mystery and intrigue to the reservation.
Hawk Watching at Mount Tom
The reservation's strategic location and open vistas provide an ideal vantage point for observing various hawk species. This natural phenomenon draws visitors who appreciate wildlife and the opportunity to connect with nature in a significant way. It's a testament to the reservation's ecological importance and diverse appeal.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit