Savoy Mountain State Forest Ridge Trail
CCC ruins and ridge roads in the Berkshire highlands
The old Civilian Conservation Corps roads snake through Savoy Mountain’s 11,000 acres of hardwood forest, passing stone foundations and rusted equipment from Depression-era work camps. The main ridge road climbs past Bog Pond and the abandoned fire tower site, offering glimpses of the Hoosac Range through dense canopy. Rocky stream crossings and seasonal washouts keep things interesting, especially the gnarly descent toward North Pond where CCC-era culverts still channel mountain runoff.
Moderate difficulty with a few technical spots requiring decent ground clearance and low-range capability. Best tackled May through October when seasonal gates are open and streams are manageable. No permits needed, but bring a full tank—nearest fuel is Adams or North Adams. Dispersed camping allowed at designated sites. You’ll earn solitude in some of the most remote forestland in western Massachusetts, plus a solid dose of New Deal history.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Backcountry |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote |
| Length (miles) | 18 mi / 29 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 2566 ft |
| Best season | May-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Adams, Massachusetts |
| Land manager | Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Official sources | mass.gov |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock 4Runner or Wrangler run this trail without mods?
Yes. The minimum requirement is a stock 4WD high-clearance vehicle and that's genuinely sufficient here. Lifted rigs have more margin on the rutted sections, but bone-stock is fine if you're not pushing it.
When does the trail open and close each year?
Best window is May through October. Spring mud season can leave the dirt roads soft and rutted into late April. Winter access is not maintained — snow and ice on the ridge make it a bad gamble without a dedicated winter setup.
Do I need a permit to run this trail or camp here?
No permit is required to drive the trail. Dispersed camping in Savoy Mountain State Forest is allowed, but you're operating under Massachusetts DCR rules — no fees for dispersed sites, but check current regulations at mass.gov before you go since rules can update.
What's the hardest section and what should I actually expect?
The most demanding stretches are the eroded ridge roads where loose rock and washouts narrow your line choices. Nothing technically extreme, but you'll hit off-camber moments and embedded rocks that punish inattention. It's moderate — respect it but don't overthink it.
Is there any cell service on the trail and how far is the nearest fuel?
Expect zero cell service for the majority of the route — plan accordingly and download offline maps before you leave pavement. Adams, Massachusetts is the nearest town for fuel, roughly 10-15 minutes from the trailhead, so top off before you head in.
Trail track
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