The Best Time for Fall Foliage in the Berkshires
The Berkshires offers a picture-postcard autumnal experience with prime leaf-peeping experiences throughout the season and fun festivities in all the Berkshires’ towns. Centrally located in Great Barrington, East Rock Inn is your perfect home base for exploring the region's vibrant fall colors.
When to Visit The Berkshires for Peak Leaf-Peeping:
The best time to witness the peak fall foliage in the Berkshires is typically from late September to the end of October. However, exact timing can vary depending on weather conditions. To stay updated on the foliage progress, check local news sources or online foliage trackers.
Best Places to See Fall Foliage Near Great Barrington:
- Monument Mountain: This well-known mountain offers panoramic views of the Berkshires, especially during the fall when the leaves are ablaze with color. Hike to the summit for breathtaking vistas and incredible photo ops.
- Sheffield: This charming town near the Connecticut border is known for its beautiful fall foliage. Walk Bartholomew’s Cobble, explore the many antique shops, or take a scenic drive through the surrounding countryside.
- Chesterfield Gorge: This state park features a deep gorge with a cascading waterfall, surrounded by vibrant fall foliage. Hike along the trails, admire the natural beauty, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
- Stockbridge: This historic town is home to the Norman Rockwell Museum, which offers beautiful fall foliage views on its grounds. Be sure also to pay a visit to the gardens of Naumkeag, a former country estate, for the annual Pumpkin Show in September and October.
- Tanglewood: The summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, Tanglewood’s grounds remain open to visitors in the fall. Take a leisurely stroll through the grounds or enjoy a picnic amidst the colorful trees.
- Mount Greylock State Reservation: As the highest point in Massachusetts, Mount Greylock offers panoramic views of the Berkshires during fall. Hike to the summit for a panorama of the region's vibrant colors.
- East Rock Inn: Whether you stay in one of our mountain facing rooms, or our courtyard rooms, you’ll be surrounded by the changing colors of East Rock Mountain. Start your day with a hike right across the road, through the autumnal forest to Whale Rock.
Tips for Your Fall Foliage Adventure:
- Plan Ahead: Book accommodations and activities in advance, especially during peak foliage season.
- Check Weather Conditions: Monitor the weather forecast to plan your activities accordingly.
- Dress Warmly: Fall temperatures in the Berkshires can be chilly, so pack warm clothing and layers.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: Hiking trails and uneven terrain can be slippery, so wear sturdy footwear.
- Respect Nature: Leave no trace and follow park rules to preserve the natural beauty of the Berkshires.
Book your leaf-peeping getaway now at East Rock Inn and explore the Berkshires during peak fall foliage season!
Where to eat breakfast in Great Barrington and Beyond
The Berkshires offer a delightful sip for every palate, from award-winning breweries to cozy wineries and innovative distilleries. We’ve compiled a few of our favorites. Great Barrington: A Craft Beer Lover's Paradise Barrington Brewery & Restaurant in Great Barrington is a local favorite renowned for its commitment to sustainability. Its solar-powered brewing process produces a lineup of award-winning beers, perfectly paired with its delicious pub fare. Craving a relaxed vibe? Head to Big Elm Brewing , also in Great Barrington. This brewery boasts a constantly rotating selection of local favorites, offering a chance to discover the unique styles and flavors crafted by the region's independent brewers. Craft Beers Beyond Great Barrington For a wider exploration, venture out to Bright Ideas Brewing in North Adams. This innovative brewery pushes boundaries with its experimental brews. If ciders are your thing, don't miss Berkshire Cider Project , also in North Adams, offering handcrafted ciders made with locally-sourced apples. The Berkshires craft beer scene continues to evolve with the recent arrival of Hot Plate Brewing Co. in downtown Pittsfield. This Latina-owned brewery offers a unique perspective on the craft beer world, with a focus on innovative recipes and a welcoming taproom experience. Local Berkshires Wineries and Vineyards Les Trois Emme Vineyard and Winery is less than five miles from East Rock Inn and hosts weekend wine tastings in its comfortable tasting room. This locally owned vineyard is minutes from Great Barrington, and you can try a range of whites and reds. For an experience that marries wine tasting with breathtaking scenery, venture out to Four Winds Vineyard in nearby Canaan, Connecticut (just a 23-minute drive). Specializing in estate-grown Bordeaux varietals, they offer tastings and tours, allowing you to discover the unique terroir and meticulous craftsmanship behind each sip. For those seeking off-the-beaten-path tastings, explore hidden gems like Balderdash Cellars in Richmond. This boutique winery produces ultra-premium wines from world-class California vineyards, offering a unique experience for discerning palates. Local Berkshires Spirits and Cocktails The Berkshires aren't just about beer and wine. If you're looking for a unique spirit experience, look no further than Berkshire Mountain Distillery in Great Barrington. Their small-batch gins and vodkas, crafted with locally sourced ingredients, are a testament to the region's commitment to quality and innovation. Sample their award-winning spirits neat or ask the bartenders to create a signature cocktail for you. Want to learn more about the craft beverages we’ve suggested? Here are helpful links to get you started: Barrington Brewery & Restaurant: https://www.barringtonbrewery.net/ Big Elm Brewing: https://www.bigelmbeer.com/ Bright Ideas Brewing: http://brightideasbrewing.com/ Berkshire Cider Project: http://www.berkshire-cider.com/ Hot Plate Brewing Co.: https://www.hotplatebeer.com/ Four Winds Vineyard: https://crowleywines.com/vineyard/ Balderdash Cellars: https://www.balderdashcellars.com/ Berkshire Mountain Distillery: https://berkshiremountaindistillers.com/our-products/ Les Trois Emme Vineyard: https://www.ltewinery.com/ Be sure to drink responsibly and plan to have a designated driver or take a rideshare/taxi to and from your destinations. You’re just a short drive away to any of these experiences from East Rock Inn. Book Now and make East Rock Inn your home base in the Berkshires.
Mark your calendars! On April 8th, 2024, a total solar eclipse will be
visible over thirteen US States. During this awe-inspiring event, the moon
will completely obscure the sun's bright face, plunging the landscape into
an eerie twilight for a brief period.
As winter loosens its grip and the Berkshires awaken, a vibrant display of
color explodes at Naumkeag, a stunning Gilded Age estate in Stockbridge,
Massachusetts. Each spring, the annual Daffodil and Tulip Festival
transforms the estate's grounds into a breathtaking tapestry of blooms.
Get ready for a fabulous season of festivals and fairs celebrating art,
music, food, and more in Great Barrington and surrounding towns. Here’s
just a small sample of what’s happening this summer. From downtown street
parties to quirky small-town fetes, here's a rundown of all the fun events
to experience from your home base at East Rock Inn.
The Literary Legacy of the Berkshires
The Berkshires aren't just a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. For more than
two centuries, this stretch of Western Massachusetts has been the setting
and inspiration for great American writers and intellectuals. From East
Rock Inn, you can visit many of the sites
Adventure Unleashed
Your dog isn't just a companion, they’re family. So, don’t leave them
behind when wanderlust strikes! But before you hit the road, some planning
is necessary to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey for both of you.
Pack Smarter, Stay Happier
Short-term stays in homes and apartments are perfect when you’re looking
for a home away from home experience – the ability to cook meals in a real
kitchen, do laundry, hang out as a group, and still have the luxury of
personal space.