Day Trips from Amherst
← All Amherst day tripsDay Trips from Amherst: Hiking Trails & Nature
Find the best hiking trails and nature destinations within driving distance of Amherst, MA. From easy lakeside walks to challenging ridge hikes, these day trip trails deliver real scenery without the plane ticket. Drive times, ratings, and trail info included.
12 hiking trails near Amherst
Macricostas Preserve
New Preston, CT 06777
Just 1 hr 55 min from Amherst, rated 4.9 stars by 120 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Steep Rock Preserve
Washington Depot, CT 06794
Just 1 hr 59 min from Amherst, rated 4.9 stars by 400 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Monument Mountain
Great Barrington, MA 01230
Just 1 hr 12 min from Amherst, rated 4.8 stars by 368 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Geyser Trail
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Just 2 hrs 9 min from Amherst, rated 4.8 stars by 1,052 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Campbell Falls State Park
Spaulding Rd, Norfolk
Just 1 hr 37 min from Amherst, rated 4.8 stars by 293 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Chesterfield Gorge
West Chesterfield, MA 01084
Just 42 min from Amherst, rated 4.8 stars by 223 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Doane's Falls
Royalston, MA 01368
Just 45 min from Amherst, rated 4.8 stars by 428 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Kerhonkson, NY 12446
Just 2 hrs 40 min from Amherst, rated 4.8 stars by 5,489 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Hidden Valley Preserve
Washington Depot, CT 06794
Just 1 hr 57 min from Amherst, rated 4.8 stars by 464 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Purgatory Chasm State Reservation
Sutton, MA 01590
Just 1 hr 13 min from Amherst, rated 4.8 stars by 2,874 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Hogback Mountain Conservation Area
Brattleboro, VT 05301
Just 1 hr 5 min from Amherst, rated 4.7 stars by 133 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Cotton Hollow Preserve
South Glastonbury, CT 06073
Just 1 hr 8 min from Amherst, rated 4.7 stars by 413 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Trails Day Trips from Amherst
What are the best hiking trails near Amherst, MA?
The best hikes near Amherst range from easy nature preserve loops to challenging state park trails with waterfalls, overlooks, and canyon scenery. Check the cards above for top-rated options with real drive times.
Are there easy hikes near Amherst?
Yes. Many state parks and nature preserves near Amherst offer well-maintained, beginner-friendly trails under 3 miles. Look for "Nature" tagged destinations above for the most accessible options.
What should I bring on a day hike from Amherst?
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. Most trails near Amherst are well-marked but cell service can be spotty in state parks. Download trail maps before you leave and wear sturdy shoes.
When is the best time to hike near Amherst?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best hiking weather and scenery near Amherst. Fall foliage is spectacular at most destinations. Summer works but can be hot and buggy. Winter hiking is possible at many parks with proper gear.
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