Mount Greylock Hike via Bellows Pipe Trail

The Bellows Pipe Trail is the quiet way to tackle a Mount Greylock hike. Most hikers head for the Cheshire Harbor or Hopper Trails. But this eastern approach, climbing from a gravel parking area at the end of Gould Road in Adams, reaches the summit with a fraction of the company.

It’s not an easy climb. The trail gains roughly 2,200 feet over about 2.9 miles one way, ascending steadily through hardwood forest with few opportunities to catch your breath before the final push. Near the top, Bellows Pipe joins the Appalachian Trail for the last stretch to the summit, where the granite Veterans War Memorial Tower marks the highest point in Massachusetts at 3,491 feet. On a clear day, the views extend into five states.

There’s history underfoot, too. Henry David Thoreau climbed Mount Greylock in the 1840s and spent a night on the summit. Herman Melville, who could see the mountain from his home in Pittsfield, is thought to have drawn on Greylock’s whale-like profile while writing Moby-Dick. Bellows Pipe has been carrying hikers up the mountain’s shoulder for nearly two centuries, yet it still feels like one of Greylock’s best-kept secrets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Mount Greylock hike a difficult?

This route is non-technical. You can simply walk up the Bellows Pipe Trail in a good pair of hiking boots. It is moderately strenuous. I did not find it to be hard.

Is Mount Greylock open?

Yes, the park is is open dawn to dusk. Check all details here.

Is Mount Greylock haunted?

Well, it’s as haunted as anywhere else. So, no. Mount Greylock is not haunted.

Is Mount Greylock dog friendly?

Yes, dogs are allowed at Mount Greylock State Reservation.

Is Mount Greylock in the Berkshires?

Yes, it’s considered to be in the Berkshires. However, geologically, it is part of the Taconic Mountain Range.

Is Mount Greylock road open?

Yes, on a seasonal basis. The road is typically open from mid-May through October. Check here to confirm details.

How long does the Mount Greylock hike take?

Allow 3-4 hours for this route.

What is the elevation gain for the Mount Greylock hike?

The elevation gain for this route is apx 2,200 feet / 670 meters.

Mount Greylock Hike Trail Guide

The Mount Greylock hike includes…

• a moderate wooded climb
• a wonderful open summit
• the iconic Veterans War Memorial Tower
• a fantastic panoramic view east into five states

A full breakdown is provided below in my hike notes with lots of photos.

Mount Greylock Trail Notes & Gallery

Start at the South Bellows trailhead and hike north for about 1,000 feet before you turn west/left and begin your ascent. It’s easy-going at first, but gets steeper steadily as you climb up the eastern slope.

Here is the Mount Greylock AllTrails track of the exact route I hiked for this trail guide.

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The parent mountain for this hike is Mount Greylock.