Great Barrington Land Conservancy celebrated National Trails Day with paddle trip, hike
Great Barrington — Twenty-three explorers paddled and hiked their way from Housatonic River Walk, a National Recreation Trail, along the Housatonic River to the Appalachian Trail, a National Scenic Trail, on Saturday, June 3, during a National Trails Day trip made challenging due to river conditions and weather. The Sheffield Land Trust provided midway refreshments and information about the Sheffield Tree Project.
After the first expedition departed, 12 more explorers including Rep. William “Smitty” Pignatelli, joined Bernie Drew for an informative loop walk to learn about the Great Barrington history along the eastern bank of the Housatonic River. Stories were shared about the original Bridge Street bridge, the many phases of development at the old New England Log Homes site, the old Milk Exchange and past riverside merchant families. Participants also learned about the old rubber factory and the inventions of William Stanley and everyone was invited to a picnic lunch provided by Community Development Corporation of South Berkshire, which sponsored the event.
This GB Trails collaborative effort was made possible by Great Barrington Land Conservancy, Berkshire Natural Resources Council, Housatonic Valley Association, Appalachian Trail Conservancy, Greenagers, the Great Barrington Historical Society, the Sheffield Land Trust and CDCSB.
