NENSA’s 25 in 2020 Throwback Thursday

In honor of the long history of our organization, and our beloved community of skiers across New England we are going to pause and reflect on how we got here. I myself have been reflecting quite often over the past few months because, for most everyone, the future is more undefined than it has been in living history.

A group of families, from the Berkshire Trails Nordic Ski Club (BTNSC), met on July 6th to hike a 13 mile segment of the M&M Trail. Beginning at the Notch in South Hadley, MA and ending at Mt.Tom in Holyoke, MA.  This section has been rated by Runner’s World Magazine as one of the top 10 hikes in the US.  The range is a series of small mountains close together, so after every decent, there is another climb just ahead – a lot like skiing! Uphill efforts are rewarded by beautiful views.

The lead group, doing the entire 13 miles, was not stopped even by the Connecticut River.  An obliging boat owner with the well known name of Thomas Jefferson ferried them across and they continued up Mt.Tom.

Group hiking is a lot of fun. With a little planning, a successful hike has a destination and terrain to match varying abilities.  A common starting point, with cars left at one or two intervals, allows everyone to start together, and finish where they want to.  The best part of a group hike is that everyone can hook up with someone who goes at about the same speed.  All hikers, big and small, should carry their own food and water supply. Have a favorite hiking spot? Send us the location, or plan a group hike and spread the word.

By Penny Molyneux NENN Vol.3 No.1 Early Fall 1997