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Upper Housatonic Heritage Walks
"Take a Hike" is the slogan for the 23 heritage walks scheduled for the October 5-6 weekend throughout the upper Housatonic River valley. "These are great hikes," said Paul Ivory, Director of Upper Housatonic Heritage, Inc., "and they cover a wide range of interests and exertion."
Upper Housatonic Heritage, its supporting organizations and the National Park Service are sponsoring the walks as part of their ongoing effort to celebrate the natural, cultural and historical heritage of the area. From hikes in the Taconics to the street scene heritage of Pittsfield, Great Barrington and Sharon, the hikes offer something for everyone. Details of the walks are found in a brochure available at many regional heritage sites and inns, as well as the internet site <www.berkshirehistory.org>.
"Participation in these walks will not only be fun," continued Mr. Ivory, "but will be a vote in support of our designation as a National Heritage Area." Designation would bring significant funding and other benefits for local projects seeking to preserve and celebrate the region's heritage. "Congress will soon be considering whether we should be designated," added Director Ed Kirby, "and broad enthusiasm for these walks will be important."
The earliest walk will be at 9 a.m. on Saturday and features a heritage walk in the Mt. Everett Wildlife Sanctuary. Saturday morning and Sunday afternoon will see bicycle trips through Sheffield and North and South Egremont. The Nature Conservancy will present a special Saturday morning walk through the Drury Nature Preserve southwest of Sheffield (pre-registration is requested; call 413-442-1793). Saturday afternoon will see a hike with great views at Bartholomew Cobble, while Sunday will bring a walk to a scenic overlook of Housatonic Village. Walking tours of downtown Pittsfield will be featured on both Saturday and Sunday mornings. These are but a few of the walks, all to be led by experienced leaders.
"Come join the fun, select the walks that fit your interests and show that we appreciate and celebrate our heritage," added Director Tom Shachtman. There are no charges for participating in the walks, though a few ask for advance registration. For more info call the Berkshire Historical Society at 413-442-1793, or the Salisbury Association at 860-435-0566.
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