The Hike In Massachusetts That Leads You To Plane Wreckage From 1988

History buffs and nature lovers alike will want to check out this hike in western Massachusetts. The Bernard Farm trail in Mount Greylock State Reservation will take you through a beautiful forest and right past the wreckage of a real plane crash. Keep reading to find out more about how you can experience this unique hike for yourself.

Tucked away in Mount Greylock State Reservation, the Bernard Farm trail takes hikers right past the site of a 1988 plane crash.

AllTrails/Mike Morrell

This woodsy hike starts off in North Adams and will lead you through 3.7 miles of forest. The hike is rated moderate, which means it requires a little bit of huffing and puffing but probably won’t be too hard for beginners.

AllTrails/Chris Kollett

You’ll gain about 1,200 feet in elevation. Keep your eyes on the left side of the trail – the plane wreckage is located about 80 percent of the way up.

AllTrails/Paul Roullier

On September 17, 1988, pilot Larry Bugby was flying over the reservation when he became disoriented by thick clouds. His single-engine Cessna 127 crashed directly into the mountain, killing his two passengers but leaving Bugby alive.

AllTrails/James Castignoli

Though the wreckage has been left on the mountain, the park considers it a historical artifact and any tampering with the metal scraps is illegal. If you come across the plane, be sure to treat the area with respect.

AllTrails/Jacob Mulligan

This trail is accessible year-round and provides some stellar views over the forest. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes, as the path can get muddy.

AllTrails/Nathan Patrick

Taking the Bernard Farm trail is a fascinating way to connect with history and take in the beauty of western Massachusetts at the same time.

AllTrails/Dwayne Miller

Incredibly, the 1988 plane crash is only one of several that have occurred on Mount Greylock.

AllTrails/Mike Morrell

AllTrails/Chris Kollett

AllTrails/Paul Roullier

AllTrails/James Castignoli

AllTrails/Jacob Mulligan

AllTrails/Nathan Patrick

AllTrails/Dwayne Miller

For more information about the Bernard Farm trail, including the location of the trailhead and reviews by other hikers, check out the hike’s listing on AllTrails.

Have you ever taken this hike? Share your experiences in the comments.

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Address: 30 Rockwell Rd, Lanesborough, MA 01237, USA