Camping and Hiking Trip at Mt. Greylock

9/22 – 9/24

Description of Camp – We will be staying at the “Upper Group” Site in the camping area at Mount Greylock State Reservation. Up to 15 people are allowed to stay at this site, which is separated from the rest of the camping area by Roaring Brook. We must cross a small bridge to get from our cars to the campsite, which is about 50 yards away.

The site does not have potable water but water is available 2 miles away at either the visitor’s center or the summit. This is bear country so all food and coolers will be stored in the cars. No food or beverages will be kept in your tent as this may attract bears. The campsite is located about half way up the side of the mountain. The camping area is quite large and includes a pavilion. There are several short hikes that are available in the area immediately surrounding the camping area. This is a great venue for beginner scouts and those seeking rank advancement, as there will be a 7-mile hike, meal preparation and troop activity. The campsite has a lean-to, a fire pit and a picnic table.

Hike – After breakfast (prepared by patrol) on Saturday, we will go on a 7-mile day hike, which will include part of the Appalachian Trail. Our campsite is at 2500 feet and we will be climbing to the summit of Mt. Greylock at 3491 feet. On the way, we will cross the summit of Saddle Ball Mountain with an elevation of 3247 feet. Each scout will be responsible for his own trail lunch. Once we reach the summit of Greylock, we will go to the top of the Veterans War Memorial Tower and take a look in the Bascom Lodge. There is a small gift shop in there. We will return to our campsite and prepare dinner. Each patrol will be responsible for it’s own dinner.

If you have any interest in coming, contact Mrs. Jagielski. Beginners are welcome and this trip was really designed for them. Troop has gear and tents to lend. You will need your own rain gear and boots. Sneakers are not recommended but may work in dry conditions.

When – Departure Friday 9/22 meeting place Lake Quonnipaug time to be determined.

Return – Sunday 9/24 by noon.

Where – Mt Greylock, Lanesborough, MA (about a 2 hour drive)

What to bring: Follow 3-season checklist for over night camping. Weather conditions could drop into the 40’s at night. It can be a tricky time of the year for precipitation, temperature and wind. Ability to layer is critical.

H2O – carry 2 liters on Saturday hike.

Food – because we are car camping, weight is not critical. Patrols or individuals will buddy up to organize a patrol dinner and tenting inclusive of organizing cook kits and stoves. Perishable food can be kept in a cooler. For dinner, foil meals always work well, (foil wrap meat for protein, potato for carbohydrate, vegetables and maybe even cheese sprinkled with dried soup mix … got all food groups covered without clean up! Boxed Zatarain Rice with some added meat and frozen peas are easy and tasteful. For lunch, dried salami, cheese and tortilla wraps keep and transport well are high in calorie and easy to eat on the trail. Trail mix is a good snack. For breakfast on Sat keep the food simple because we will want to get out on the trail but Sunday’s breakfast can be a little more creative.

Will need to carry 10 essentials, rain gear, fleece and water during the hike.