Smith Mountain (Taconic Mountains)

Summary

Smith Mountain, 2,170 feet (660 m), is a prominent peak in the Taconic Mountains of western Massachusetts, USA. The mountain is located in Pittsfield State Forest and is traversed by the 12.1 mi (19.5 km) multi-use Taconic Skyline Trail. The summit is known for its extensive stand of wild azalea and is wooded with northern hardwood tree species.

Smith Mountain
Highest point
Elevation2,170 ft (660 m)
Prominence232 ft (71 m)
Parent peakN 42.48261 W 73.33537
Coordinates42°28′57″N 73°20′07″W / 42.48261°N 73.33537°W / 42.48261; -73.33537
Geography
LocationBerkshire County, Massachusetts
Parent rangeTaconic Mountains
Geology
Age of rockOrdovician
Mountain typeThrust fault; metamorphic rock and sedimentary rock
Climbing
Easiest routeTaconic Skyline Trail

Most of Smith Mountain is located within Hancock with lower east slopes within Pittsfield. West Mountain, 1,950 feet (590 m), a spur of Smith Mountain, is located along the mountain's south ridgeline. The Taconic ridgeline continues north from Smith Mountain as Pine Mountain and Tower Mountain, and south as Doll Mountain. It is bordered by West Hill to the west across the Wyomanock Creek valley. The west side of the mountain drains into Wyomanock Creek, then into Kinderhook Creek, thence into the Hudson River and Long Island Sound. The east side drains into Smith Brook, thence to the Housatonic River and Long Island Sound.

References edit

  • Massachusetts Trail Guide (2004). Boston: Appalachian Mountain Club.
  • Commonwealth Connections proposal PDF download. Retrieved March 2, 2008.
  • AMC Massachusetts and Rhode Island Trail Guide (1989). Boston: Appalachian Mountain Club.
  • "Greenways and Trails" Massachusetts DCR. Retrieved February 22, 2008.

External links edit

  • Pittsfield State Forest map
  • Pittsfield State Forest. Massachusetts DCR.