Building Momentum in the Berkshires

Across the Berkshires, Mass Audubon is helping more people connect with nature, strengthening our landscapes, and protecting places that matter—now and for the future. Here’s a look at what you’ve made possible, and what we’re building together.

Making Nature Accessible to All

One of the things we’re most proud of this past year is the expansion of Pleasant Valley’s All Persons Trail (APT). Today, the trail stretches nearly a mile and includes a longer boardwalk, an expanded viewing platform, and improved access to an upland loop. Thoughtfully placed benches and shared seating areas invite visitors to slow down, rest, and truly take in the beauty around them.

Because of this investment, the expanded All Persons Trail has deepened the ways people learn and connect here. Inclusive, multisensory, and interactive displays along the route support educational programs and help visitors engage with nature in ways that feel welcoming and meaningful.

The new sections of the trail open up even more of Pleasant Valley to people of all ages and abilities. Visitors can enjoy closer views of wildlife, sweeping vistas of Yokun Ridge, and increased access to wetland areas. Audio tours and interpretive displays create an experience that many guests are enjoying for the very first time. Mobility devices are also available for use at Visitor Services.

For many visitors, this is their first meaningful experience of nature here.

Helping to Educate our Youth

Our supportive community is also helping bring hands-on, nature-based science learning to schools across the Berkshires, with a strong focus on Pittsfield classrooms. The Berkshire Environmental Literacy program addresses a crucial need by offering comprehensive environmental education opportunities for K-12 teachers and students.

Throughout the year, educators lead a series of in-class and outdoor lessons focused on local plants, animals, and ecosystems, including field studies at Mass Audubon’s wildlife sanctuaries in the Berkshires and nearby natural areas. These experiences align with Massachusetts Science, Technology, and Engineering standards while prioritizing hands-on, outdoor learning that sparks curiosity and connection.

These are helping to:

• Prepare young people to be the future caretakers of local ecosystems and watersheds
• Support schools that lack access to science training and enrichment
• Equip teachers with the tools to confidently lead environmental learning

For many students, these programs spark curiosity, confidence, and a lifelong connection to the outdoors.

Stewarding the Land

Pleasant Valley is a place many of us return to again and again. With more than 1,300 acres, seven miles of trails, and well-loved routes to Lenox Mountain and Yokun Ridge, it’s one of the most visited outdoor spaces in the central Berkshires—welcoming an estimated 25,000 visitors each year.

That popularity is something to celebrate. But it also comes with challenges. Much of the trail system is over 90 years old and was built for far fewer visitors. Over time, increased foot traffic has taken a toll on trails, drainage, and surrounding natural areas. At the same time, changing weather patterns are making trail care more complex.

Heavier rainstorms, stronger winds, and shifting water flow are accelerating damage and affecting forest health. These impacts can make trails less safe and harder to maintain if they’re not addressed proactively.

Through thoughtful trail improvements, better drainage, and targeted restoration, we’re working to protect Pleasant Valley’s trails, make them safer and more resilient, and ensure continued access for generations to come. This work helps the land absorb the impacts of extreme weather while preserving the peaceful, immersive experience visitors value.

Programs to Explore This Season

Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary offers a wide range of programs for all ages throughout the year. From Sunset Beaver Walks and Evening Amphibian Searches to Firefly Watches for families and birding programs for all skill levels, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Explore upcoming programs and register online.

Thank You!

Because of you, more people are connecting with nature, more students are discovering the outdoors, and more landscapes are being protected across the Berkshires.

Thank you for being part of this community, and for all you make possible.