How Tall Is Mount Greylock in Massachusetts?

Mount Greylock in Massachusetts has a long and rich history spanning centuries. It’s located in a geologically distinct area of New England and inspired generations of famous authors. But does the summit’s height surpass its fame? Keep reading to discover how tall Mount Greylock is and what makes it so unique.     

How Tall Is Mount Greylock in Massachusetts?

So, how tall is Mount Greylock in Massachusetts? The peak is 3,491 feet, making it the highest point in the state. The impressive peak is located within Mount Greylock State Reservation and is part of the northern Berkshires of western Massachusetts. The surrounding area is made up of a scenic trail network and several rural towns.    

A Brief History of Mount Greylock

Mount Greylock in Massachusetts is a landmark, but it wasn’t always. In fact, the stunning peak was originally extra farmland for farmer Jeremiah Wilbur in the late 1700s. He created the first trail up the mountain to connect it to his farm. Shortly thereafter, he opened the trail to the public so others could enjoy the incredible view. By 1898, Mount Greylock Reservation became the first wilderness park in Massachusetts. 

Mount Greylock’s fame is partly due to the fascination of many famous authors. Nathaniel Hawthorne, Henry David Thoreau, Herman Melville, and J.K. Rowling drew inspiration from the peak or wrote about it after spending time on the summit. The attention in popular culture caused tourism and tree farming in the Berkshires to explode. Although beneficial to the economy, it caused erosion and landslides until the Commonwealth of Massachusetts turned the area into a reservation.     

Mount Greylock is now home to the Massachusetts Veterans War Memorial and the Thunderbolt Ski Run, a dangerous ski slope enjoyed by most experienced skiers.     

How Does Mount Greylock Compare to Other Peaks?

Mount Greylock in Massachusetts is the highest point in the state. It’s surrounded by 12,500 acres of land, including a short segment of the Appalachian Trail. But it’s only one of many peaks in the 150-mile-long Taconic Mountains. This sub-range of the Appalachian Mountains contains some of the highest peaks in the state, in addition to Mount Greylock. These renowned summits are oval-shaped, rise over 2,000 feet into the air, and contain some of the most diverse forest habitats.     

Mountains in Massachusetts 

Mountains Throughout the U.S.

Mount Greylock is the tallest summit in Massachusetts but is far from the tallest mountain in the U.S. In fact, it’s not even the tallest mountain in New England. 

Mount Washington is the tallest mountain in New England, with Mount Greylock ranking at 17. These two mountains, as well as Moxie Mountain, are part of the New England Fifty Finest. This list of mountains includes some of the most prominent peaks in the region for peak bagging.  

Wildlife Around Mount Greylock in Massachusetts

Mount Greylock in Massachusetts is composed of unique forest habitats. Since the elevation is quite low, the mountainside is home to many animals. Some of the most common mammals to see while climbing the majestic summit include white-tailed deer, moose, red foxes, coyotes, porcupines, black bears, bobcats, snowshoe hares, and red-backed voles. 

One species that relies the most on the forest is the blackpoll warbler. The state’s entire population of the small bird resides in the area’s boreal forest zone. However, you have a chance to see more common birds while hiking as well. Ravens, hairy woodpeckers, rose-breasted grosbeaks, and great crested flycatchers also live on the mountain. 

Keep track of all the animals and landmarks you spot as you complete the rewarding hike up Mount Greylock in Massachusetts.   

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Romiana Lee/Shutterstock.com