Light dances through old-growth pines and hemlocks casting vibrant colors across the craggy landscape of the Ice Glen Trail in Stockbridge, Mass. Rich hues of emerald moss carpet the boulders that line the trail. Described by Katharine Mixer Abbott as, “the most curious fissure in all Berkshire,” the Ice Glen trail is the kind of hike that keeps your imagination planted in Middle Earth and while your eyes explore the natural beauty of this one-of-a-kind Berkshire trail.

The Ice Glen’s fissure runs north-south, protecting much of the lands in cool shadow. Well into the summer there are remnants of ice and snow from the winter past. Local lore whispers of fairies and elves living in this magical glen. Children can still be found seeking them out across the curious landscape.

Halfway up a boulder-strewn hillside, the trail forms a fork. Following the trail to the left leads to Laura’s Tower and to the right Ice Glen. At times the trail turns into a bit of a scramble, especially in the busier summer months. Take your time navigating the rocks. 

Ice Glen is a moderate one-mile out and back hike or a two-mile loop trail if you exit down Ice Glen Road and back down Route 7 to Park Street.