Pine Cobble Trail & Viewpoint - Image 1
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Pine Cobble Trail and Summit

4.5
·16 reviews·Williamstown, United States

A rewarding day hike with pleasant western summit views, seasonal waterfalls, and unique forest fire evidence.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Waterfalls are pumping!

CrowdLow
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Pine Cobble Trail & Viewpoint - Image 1

Pine Cobble Trail and Summit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Waterfalls are pumping!

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A rewarding day hike with pleasant western summit views, seasonal waterfalls, and unique forest fire evidence.

4.5
(16 reviews)

"The view at the top is pretty good definitely worth doing."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended

While not overly difficult, sturdy shoes are advised for the steep sections and potentially slick terrain. :athletic_shoe:

💧 Check Trail Conditions

Especially after rain, trails can be wet. Waterfalls are more impressive but can make the path slippery. :droplet:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pine Cobble Summit Views

Pine Cobble Summit Views

Summit

Enjoy pleasant western vistas from the summit, a rewarding sight after your hike.

Forest Fire Evidence

Forest Fire Evidence

Along the trail

Observe the striking signs of the May 2021 forest fire, a unique natural phenomenon.

Waterfalls in Season

Waterfalls in Season

Along the trail

After rain or snowmelt, witness impressive waterfalls cascading down the terrain.

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Planning Your Visit

Trail Conditions & Timing

Pine Cobble Trail can be steep in sections, but most find it manageable with reasonable fitness. Check recent trail reports for conditions, especially after rain or snow, as waterfalls can be impressive but trails might be slick. Starting early can help avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.

Summit Views & What to Expect

The summit offers pleasant western views, though not a direct line of sight to Greylock. Evidence of the 2021 forest fire adds a unique, albeit somber, element to the landscape. It's a good day hike, not overly strenuous for experienced hikers.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Waterfalls are pumping!
Crowd
Low
When
Fall afternoons
Why
Pleasant temperatures & foliage
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer hikers on the trail
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Day 4 - Kia Ora to Pine Valley Another beautiful day on trail. With all the rain and snow we’d had, the waterfalls were pumping! It also made lightning the coal heater quite the ordeal. Half a can of fuel later it was cranking and we had a toasty night 🔥
safin_clark
821 likes • 15.5K views

👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended

While not overly difficult, sturdy shoes are advised for the steep sections and potentially slick terrain. :athletic_shoe:

💧 Check Trail Conditions

Especially after rain, trails can be wet. Waterfalls are more impressive but can make the path slippery. :droplet:

Our lower mountain terrain is packed with fan favorites like Turnpike and Pine Ridge. There are also some great stashes if you know where to look! If you're into racing you're probably a regular on Bobcat and Lower Limited. What's your favorite lower mountain trail?
redlodgemountain
310 likes • 5.8K views
my friend and I had a little day trip to Pine this past weekend and spent some time at @tontonaturalbridgestatepark 💦🌲 PARK FEE: $10 per person No dogs allowed on trail 🐶 Lunch options: 🍻 @thatbrewery for bbq and burgers 🍕 @oldcountyinn for wood-fired pizzas (long wait times) Safe travels and remember to always respect the land and #leavenotrace 🐻
southwestsampler
525 likes • 14.2K views

🗺️ Start Early for Solitude

Beat the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful hike by starting your trek in the morning. :sunrise:

🥾 Long Trail Access

This trailhead is a starting point for the Long Trail, offering options for longer hikes. :hiking_boot:

“Fall magic in Yosemite 🍂🍁✨ 🎥 11.1.24 Stayed in a heated tent cabin at Camp Curry, explored the stunning Cook’s Meadow loop, Ride sugar pine railroad , hiked the Mirror Lake trail, and soaked in the beauty of the fall foliage 🍃. Less crowded, more peaceful—perfect for a family getaway. 🍕🍩 Enjoyed the variety of dining options at Curry Village (hello, Peet’s Coffee!) 😋 Highly recommend this ...
bhuti_hikes
620 likes • 16.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended

While not overly difficult, sturdy shoes are advised for the steep sections and potentially slick terrain. :athletic_shoe:

💧 Check Trail Conditions

Especially after rain, trails can be wet. Waterfalls are more impressive but can make the path slippery. :droplet:

🗺️ Start Early for Solitude

Beat the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful hike by starting your trek in the morning. :sunrise:

🥾 Long Trail Access

This trailhead is a starting point for the Long Trail, offering options for longer hikes. :hiking_boot:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(16 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Pine Cobble Trail is generally well-regarded as a good day hike with pleasant summit views and interesting natural features like seasonal waterfalls and evidence of a past forest fire. While some find it easy, others note steep sections, making it a moderate challenge for most. It's a solid option for those seeking a rewarding hike without extreme difficulty.

"The hike to Pine Cobble is nice, but not fantastic. The views from Pine Cobble to the west are nice, but there surprisingly isn't an unobstructed view towards Greylock. The woods show clear evidence of the May 2021 forest fire, which is pretty interesting. Some steep sections, but nothing crazy."

Byron Drury

"Great trail for a day hike."

Henry Williams

"I did this trail a couple of years ago. Don't believe the comments that say it's hard. If you are a hiker this is easy as it gets. Monadnock is many times harder. There is no rock scrambling just walking up and up. If you are in reasonable shape no problem at all. The view at the top is pretty good definitely worth doing."

Tom D

What People Like

Pleasant summit views
Seasonal waterfalls
Forest fire evidence

What People Dislike

Not unobstructed Greylock view

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Pine Cobble Trailhead is accessible by car, with a parking area available. It's a common starting point for those looking to hike sections of the Long Trail. Reddit

While the Pine Cobble Trail is a distinct path, it's located near the Appalachian Trail and can be a starting point for longer treks that connect to it. Reddit

The most straightforward access is via the designated trailhead with parking. Reddit

Information on public transport is limited; driving is the most common method of access. It's advisable to check local transit schedules if this is your preferred method.

Overnight parking is generally permitted for those undertaking multi-day hikes on the Long Trail, but it's always best to confirm local regulations. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is typically no entrance fee for accessing the Pine Cobble Trail itself, as it's a public trail. Reddit

Pine Cobble Trail is generally open year-round during daylight hours. Access is usually unrestricted. Reddit

No advance booking is required for Pine Cobble Trail. It's a public access trail. Reddit

Generally, no special permits are needed for day hiking on Pine Cobble Trail. Reddit

While not explicitly stated in all sources, many state parks and trails have leash laws. It's best to check local regulations or assume dogs should be leashed. Instagram mentions no dogs allowed on trail at Tonto Natural Bridge State Park, which is a different location but highlights the need to check rules.

🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience

The hike to the summit and back can typically be completed in 2-3 hours, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the top. Reddit

Most hikers describe Pine Cobble Trail as moderately challenging, with some steep sections but generally manageable for those in reasonable shape. It's considered easier than some other hikes like Monadnock. Reddit

You'll find pleasant views to the west from the summit. While there isn't an unobstructed view towards Greylock, the scenery is still rewarding. Reddit

Restroom facilities may be available at the trailhead, but it's advisable to confirm this with local park information or be prepared to use facilities elsewhere.

Yes, it's a good day hike for families with older children who can handle some inclines. The unique forest fire evidence can also be educational. Instagram mentions a family getaway in Yosemite with similar trail experiences.

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the western summit views, the unique evidence of the forest fire, and any seasonal waterfalls. The changing foliage in autumn also offers great shots. Instagram

The summit provides decent landscape views, especially during sunrise or sunset, though it's not as dramatic as some other mountain peaks. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon light offers the best conditions for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing colors. Instagram

Drone usage is often restricted in natural areas and state parks. It's crucial to check local regulations before flying a drone. Instagram shows drone footage in Yosemite, but rules vary.

A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. Consider a wide-angle lens for landscapes and a telephoto if you want to capture distant details. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Pine Cobble Trail is a great option for families looking for a moderately challenging day hike. The trail's length and incline are manageable for children who are accustomed to walking, and the unique evidence of the forest fire can be a fascinating educational point. Reddit The summit views, while not expansive, offer a nice reward. Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, and consider visiting during a time when waterfalls are active for added excitement. TikTok

For a more engaging experience, consider turning it into a nature scavenger hunt or discussing the forest's recovery process. Ensure everyone wears appropriate footwear, as some sections can be steep and potentially slippery after rain. Reddit

🚶 Solo Hikers & Day Trippers

Pine Cobble Trail is an excellent choice for solo hikers and day-trippers seeking a rewarding outdoor experience without an extreme commitment. The trail is well-defined, and the summit provides a satisfying destination. Reddit You can easily complete the hike in a few hours, leaving ample time for other activities or a leisurely return. The access to the Long Trail also offers flexibility for those who might want to extend their hike or explore further. Reddit

Starting early is recommended to enjoy the trail's tranquility and capture the best light for photos. Be prepared for varying trail conditions, especially if hiking after rainfall, and always carry essentials like water and a basic first-aid kit. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Hiking Pine Cobble Trail: What to Expect

The Pine Cobble Trail offers a rewarding day hike with a moderate challenge. While some reviews suggest it's not overly strenuous for experienced hikers, others note steep sections that require a decent level of fitness. The trail winds through wooded areas, and a notable feature is the visible evidence of the May 2021 forest fire, which adds a unique, albeit somber, aspect to the landscape. This makes for an interesting educational opportunity about forest regeneration. Reddit

The summit provides pleasant views to the west, though it's important to note that it doesn't offer an unobstructed panorama of Mount Greylock. Despite this, the vista is considered worthwhile by many. The trail is also known for its seasonal waterfalls, which can be particularly impressive after periods of rain or snowmelt, adding to the trail's natural beauty. TikTok highlights impressive waterfalls after rain.

For those looking to extend their adventure, Pine Cobble Trail serves as a trailhead for the Long Trail, allowing for longer backpacking trips. Planning your hike around weather conditions is advisable, as rain can make the steeper parts of the trail slick. Reddit

Summit Views and Natural Features

The summit of Pine Cobble is the primary destination for many hikers, offering a sense of accomplishment and scenic reward. The views are described as pleasant, looking out towards the west. While not a dramatic, sweeping vista, it provides a tranquil spot to rest and appreciate the natural surroundings. Reddit

A unique aspect of the Pine Cobble Trail experience is encountering the aftermath of the May 2021 forest fire. Hikers can observe the resilience of nature and the ongoing process of regrowth. This element adds a layer of ecological interest to the hike, making it more than just a typical summit climb. Reddit

In addition to the summit views and fire evidence, the trail is enhanced by seasonal waterfalls. These cascades are most prominent during wetter periods, transforming the landscape and adding a dynamic element to the hike. Experiencing these natural water features can be a highlight for many visitors. TikTok

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