The winter hike at the Keystone Arches is this Saturday, Feb. 17 at 10:30 a.m. (Photo submitted)
CHESTER – The 4th Annual Keystone Arches Hike sponsored by the Western Mass Hilltown Hikers, Southern Hilltown Adult Education Center and Jacob’s Ladder Business Association will take place this Saturday, February 17 at 10:30 a.m. The hike will be narrated by David Pierce, president of the Friends of the Keystone Arches and the Chester Foundation, who has been studying the history of the bridges and the rail line for the past 30 years.
According to Elizabeth Mazza, founder of the Western Mass Hilltown Hikers, the entire trail is five miles long, there and back, and hikers may join the group or go on their own, and turn back at any time. The group will stop at each arch. Mazza said plan on 3 to 4 hours for the narrated hike, and prepare for mud and snow. People are invited to bring snowshoes, cross country skis, ice cleats and walking sticks.
“We made it during the snow season before the leaves are out, to get the best view of the arches. We try to change it up, make it different each year,” Mazza said.
Ice climbing at the Arches. (Chester Railway Station photo)
One of the new events this year will be at the railroad cut in the rock, midway on the trail where a giant ice wall forms every year, attracting ice climbers. Mazza said two experienced ice climbers from the Chester Fire Department are going to set up ropes and picks on the ice wall, conditions permitting, and will supply crampons to any hikers that would like to give it a try. She said the ice climbers will be there all day.
Also on the trail, Chet Brett and Tim Vogel, local mountain bike enthusiasts will bring snow mountain bikes and do tricks on the ice. They will also have extra bikes for anyone who would like to try their hand in that activity.
Last year, 160 people participated in the hike, and this year they hope to top that number. The hike will leave the trail head at 10:30 sharp. Parking is available at the Chester Elementary School at 325 Middlefield Road, and people can walk to the trail head from there. Note, no on-street parking is permitted, and there are no facilities on the trail. Mazza said people may pick up snacks or enjoy breakfast/lunch in Chester at Chester Common Table, A&L Market or Classic Blue Note Café on Main Street, or at Chester Village Market on Route 20.
For more information, go to www.SHAEC.org, or email [email protected].
