Hike Mt. Tom, Holyoke Mass., out to the antennas and more

Training event
THIS IS A CHALLENGING HIKE WITH A LARGE AMOUNT OF CLIMBING AND WOODS TRAILS.

We are going to hike up to the summit of Mt. Tom- the old ski resort, 1202 feet. This is actually park of Mt. Tom State Reservation. This beautiful park holds much Holyoke history.

Our goal is a 7 plus mile loop with plenty of elevation gain, rocks and beautiful views. We will meet inside the park. Once you get to the gate, drive through and bare to the left past the pond and the restroom. I will be down there.

This route is NOT appropriate for beginners. The climbing is significant. The distance is moderate. You need to have some mileage under your boots to attend.

Dogs must be on a leash-park rules. No children. Please bring a pack that includes plenty of water, bug spray, sunscreen, snacks (we will eat lunch on the summit), camera, whistle. Those of you thinking about Mt. Washington should be caring more weight in your pack.

Read this for driving instructions. If coming from Hartford area take 91 north, exit 15A (these exits have been renumbered), left off the highway, stay on this road, you will pass the old Mt. Tom ski resort, keep going, Reservation Rd will be a left with park sign. Please keep driving into the park and then take a left past Bray Pond. There is a building with bathrooms and parking beyond. Hopefully the pin is now in the correct spot.

Food afterwards in Holyoke-Donovans Irish Pub 80 Jarvis Ave Holyoke MA
https://donovanspub.com/

Please check your route, download the GPS at home, know your travel time. Arrive early enough to start at the posted start time.

I will give dibs to those who have consistently been working toward New Hampshire and Maine hikes. If I do not know you I will reach to ask your experience and intention.
According to the web site there is a $20 parking charge for out of state vehicles. I am not sure when that begins (maybe Memorial Day weekend). Please be prepared with cash if we encounter the gate manned.

Please check your route, download the GPS at home, know your travel time. Arrive early enough to start at the posted start time.
Items you must consider for every event:

• If you have an event after a hike, please do not sign up for the hike.
• End times are only an estimate.
• The group will not adjust speed or trail route to accommodate your schedule.
• If you cannot attend an event, please cancel 48 hours before. Late cancellations are rude and take away the option for others to join the event.
• Be a good hiking human

http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/d/f/c/600_454856828.jpeg

https://www.mass.gov/locations/mount-tom-state-reservation
https://www.mass.gov/doc/mt-tom-state-reservation-trail-map/download

--- Legal Stuff ---
HAH COVID update for this event
Any attendees who have tested positive, have symptoms or have been in direct contact with an infected person should not attend.

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In consideration for accepting this entry, I, the registrant, intending to be legally bound, hereby, for myself, my heirs, my executors and administrators, do waive and release any and all rights for damages I may have against any parties or persons connected with the Hartford Area Hiking meetup group for and related to the above listed event. I attest and verify that I am physically fit to participate in any portion of this above listed event. I grant Hartford Area Hiking permission to use any photographs, film or videotapes of this event for any purpose. I further attest that I, the registrant, am fully and completely responsible for any guests that I bring to the event, whether registered or not.