Community Hike: Bear Mountain

Start the New Year off right!  Take a hike on the historic New England Trail (Metacomet Trail) to the breathtaking overlooks of Rattlesnake Mountain and Pinnacle Rock. The hike begins off a trailhead parking area and quickly climbs away through an old orchard to traprock boulders and an expansive view of the Farmington River Valley from Rattlesnake Mountain. After a short break we will descend the peak to Will Warren's Den, a cave and boulder area with history dating back to the 1800s in Farmington. From there the hike will continue on the NET to another beautiful view from Pinnacle Rock before retracing our steps back to the trailhead. This hike is in support of the Mount Washington Observatory.

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The 4.4 mile out-and-back hike is open to all and is suitable for beginner's looking to hike for the first time (though you may find it challenging in some spots if you are new to hiking), intermediates who like rewarding views or individuals looking to get out in the winter. There is no cost to attend this special, free event. Space is limited. RSVP is required. Waiver/Assumption of Risk documents will be on hand to sign. This event will be held rain, snow or shine.

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The gear and clothing listed below is recommended for any time you are out on the trail and for this trip. Not only is it important for us to bring these items, but it is equally important to know how to use them as well. For a deeper look at the Ten Essentials, please feel free to watch the video at the link provided by clicking here. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to get in touch with me: Mat, matjobin@reachyoursummit.net

Ten Essentials:

- Map & Compass

- Sun Protection

- Warm Clothing (No Cotton)

- Headlamp or Flashlight

- First-Aid Kit & Whistle

- Multi-tool (or Knife) & Repair Kit

- Matches or Lighter

- Extra Food

- Water

- Emergency Shelter

Additional Considerations For The Area & Time Of Year:

- Wear Bright Colors (No Cotton or Blue Jeans)

- 16 to 30 Liter Backpack

- Sturdy Winter Footwear (Hiking shoes, Hiking boots)

- Traction Device (Snowshoes, Microspikes)*

- Gloves, Mittens, Hat

- Gaiters

- Hand Sanitizer

- Trekking Poles

- Personal Medications

- Camera

- Trash Compactor Bag or Rain Cover

- Hand Warmers

*Please dress for winter weather and plan on bringing a form of traction to get around. You may contact me at anytime if you have questions regarding what would be suitable for this hike. Inappropriate wear and equipment may make the hike more difficult for you and impact the other hikers. It is not my intention to embarrass any hiker, but if you arrive unprepared you will not be able to join the hike.

The Community Hike Series is a quarterly event series created by Reach Your Summit as another way for us to give back to the organizations and non-profits who protect and influence the places we enjoy. All proceeds from this hike will be donated to the organization listed for this specific hike.

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