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Skinner State Park
4.8 ★★★★★ 933 Google reviews · Running trail in Hadley, Massachusetts · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Skinner State Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Home to the Summit House, a historic hotel, this park offers hiking trails with scenic river views.
What runners say about Skinner State Park
“With its well-maintained trails, there’s an option for everyone, from leisurely walkers to more experienced hikers.”
“Beautiful mountain park overlooking the Connecticut River, Skinner is full of trails ranging from moderate to challenging, but all are doable if you’re in decent hiking shape.”
“Skinner State Park is a gem in Massachusetts, offering incredible natural beauty and a peaceful escape from the bustle of daily life.”
I come to this park almost weekly. Its a good escape and a nice place to just be outside with varying levels of hiking difficulty. Wanna get some easy steps in, hike dry brook and Lithia springs trail.
There is parking at the bottom and top. During busy times they restrict how many cars go to the top. The views are absolutely gorgeous. Lots of benches, picnic tables, and trails to hike around. It does cost to park at top during peak times.
Get your heart pumping and stretch the lungs! I did a hike from the Halfway House to the summit this weekend. The hike up the side of the mountain here is quite steep, so make sure you’re ready for a hard workout if you interested.
We had a great time hiking up to the summit house. We completed the round trip hike in about 2 hours. At the summit house, the park ranger was fantastic! He told us some basic information about the house, but did not ramble onto boredom. He stopped at the ideal time to allow for questions based on our interests.
Trail conditions & character
“Beautiful mountain park overlooking the Connecticut River, Skinner is full of trails ranging from moderate to challenging, but all are doable if you’re in decent hiking shape.”
“Parking is convenient, and the park is accessible for families with young children or those who may not want to hike the whole way.”
“Skinner State Park is a gem in Massachusetts, offering incredible natural beauty and a peaceful escape from the bustle of daily life.”
“Skinner State Park is a great destination for hiking, exploring and taking in the beautiful views of the hills of the Pioneer Valley.”
“You have the option of driving or hiking to the summit, making it accessible to everyone and there are miles of well marked trails to hike.”
Plan your run at Skinner State Park
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitemass.gov
- Phone+1 413-586-0350
Hours
| Monday | 9 am–4 pm |
| Tuesday | 9 am–4 pm |
| Wednesday | 9 am–4 pm |
| Thursday | 9 am–4 pm |
| Friday | 9 am–4 pm |
| Saturday | 9 am–4 pm |
| Sunday | 9 am–4 pm |
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