Franklin County boasts premier snowmachine trails in New England, along with picturesque ice fishing spots and inviting ice skating ponds.
Skiers and snowboarders flock to Berkshire East, aka The Beast. Berkshire East offers an impressive 1000 feet of vertical drop across 200 acres. Four chairlifts service a balanced percentage of beginning, intermediate, and advanced terrain. Berkshire East is also well known for its excellent ski and snowboard schools. You can take ski lessons, enjoy snow tubing, grab a bite, and have a full and varied day on the slopes. Uniquely among ski resorts, its lights, snowmaking, and lodges are powered entirely by solar and wind (you’ll see the massive turbine!). You can also make a trip to Northfield Mountain (in Northfield, naturally), criss-crossed with a network of trails for Nordic exploration.
Whether you’re planning a family day trip to the slopes or you're a hardcore snowboarder looking to spend a weekend with friends in the deep powder, we’ve got you covered. You’ll love escaping to the snowy hilltowns of Western Massachusetts, with skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing options. Our local ski and snow-board retailers can also equip you with all you’ll need for your day on the slopes. For those looking to for guided winter adventures, Adventure East is a must-see experience.
Of course, après adventure deserves a decent craft beer. You won't have to look far in Franklin County. Berkshire Brewery Co., Hitchcock Brewing Co., and The Brewery at Four Star Farms offer the best in hazy New England ales, among other styles. Wine enthusiasts should visit Cameron's Winery in Northfield. Snow-ed out and looking for something a little stronger? Be sure to check out the brand new speakeasy, Le Peacock for craft cocktails too good to be true. Known only to locals, Le Peacock is nestled right next to the Bridge of Flowers at 10 Bridge Street in the heart of the historic Village of Shelburne Falls.
Dotted with charming inns (be sure to stay the night at The Warfield House, Shelburne Springs, or the Deerfield inn), galleries showcasing local artists, independent restaurants, and an extensive network of trails catering to diverse winter activities, Franklin County beckons visitors to retreat to the mountains, leaving the hustle and bustle.
