October 16, 2021 at 10:00am
GPS Location: 42.312190 -72.992314 Trailhead
Hike Rating: Moderate, side trail options
5 miles total in and back
Join us for our annual group hike of the historic Keystone Arch Bridge Trail in Chester!
The hike will be narrated by Dave Pierce of the Friends of the Keystone Arches.
Enjoy Dave’s incredible narration as he tells of the history of the Arch’s creation, the first cluster of stone arch RR bridges built in America, located on the West Branch of the Westfield River. Construction of the 150-mile railroad was completed by 3,000 laborers in an incredible two and a half years, opening in 1841. We will take you up close to all the stone bridges on the trail. Two keystone arch bridges located on Mass Wildlife’s Walnut Hill Wildlife Management Area in Middlefield and Becket have been named National Historic Landmarks this year! The Chester Railway Station Museum will be open after the hike located at 10 Prospect Street, Chester.
For more info visit:
• www.chesterrailwaystation.net
• www.keystonearches.com
Parking is at Chester Elementary School, 325 Middlefield Road, one mile from the trailhead (trailhead has limited parking). Hike will start at the trailhead at 10 am. Although the trail is easily traveled and well-marked, be prepared for mud, bridges, roots and rocks.
• Maps and bottle water will be provided.
• Please be aware that there are no facilities at the trail.
• Friendly dogs are welcome!
• Plan for four hours hike time.
More details are on our Facebook page here and the website.
Please Register on https://westernmasshilltownhikers.ticketleap.com
Hike is free, donations are appreciated!