Take Mom Outside for Mother's Day

SHEFFIELD, Mass. (Mass Appeal) - If you've given Mom candy and flowers every year for mother's day, it might be time to change it up.  Give mom some outdoor outings and "green" gift Ideas this Mother's Day with a trip outdoors.

Jocelyn Forbush and Rene Wendell work with The Trustees of Reservations they came onto Mass Appeal to share some alternative Mother's Day outings. 

Wildflower Mother's Day Walk
Saturday, May 12th
10:00am to Noon
Bartholomew's Cobble, Sheffield

Peaked Mountain in Monson

• This 333 acre reservation, acquired by The Trustees in 1999, lies amid one of the most pristine, undeveloped areas of the state, with broad views of rural and forested landscapes in every direction from the 1,227-foot summit. The ascent from the main entrance to the summit of Peaked Mountain is strenuous in places -- a 45 min moderate-steep hike each way
• The 1,227-foot summit reveals spectacular views of undisturbed rural and forested landscapes in every direction: Connecticut's Shenipsit State Forest to the south, Mount Monadnock to the north, and Mount Wachusett to the northeast. In between lies a sweep of rolling New England countryside with forested hills and ridges, valley farms, and small villages. The Valley View overlook provides views of nearby Boulder Hill and the City of Springfield to the west.

Bear Swamp in Ashfield

• Hike three miles of trails, some steep in places, to a nearby beaver pond and terrific views of hillside orchards spreading below and the distant Green Mountains. Allow a minimum of 1½ hours.
• A great picnicking spot, picnic tables are available at Apple Valley overlook. On this beautiful 285 acre property, the trees provide habitat and nesting places for a large number bird species. Great-horned owls and barred owls hoot in winter, while pileated woodpeckers loudly hammer home their presence on dead pines all year long.

Bryant Homestead in Cummington

• From its iconic red barn to elegant allee of maples leading to the main house, this lovely property is testament to a celebrated poet's ideal of living mindfully on the land.

Mountain Meadow in Williamstown

• Straddling the Massachusetts/Vermont border, this inviting mix of forest and field, wetland and wildflower meadow, draws both novice hikers and serious naturalists.