Happy Valley & The Hideaway
Intro | Parking | Map | Trails | Current Issues
These two areas represent some of the finer bouldering in the Pioneer Valley. While these are technically two distinct areas, they are located from the same access point and are within a 10 minute hike of one another if you know where you are going. Like the majority of the rock around these parts, the boulders and mini-cliffs are gneiss with some outstanding features and quality. There are roughly 50 problems of all grades though these areas are noted for the more difficult problems in the V7 and up range.
Parking
The parking for the Happy Valley/Hideaway is at a small dirt lot located at the end of Dry Hill Road in Montague. This lot is privately owned so please be considerate so as not to lose our privileges.
Map
Click here for a link to the interactive map above of all the Western Mass crags discussed on this site.
Trails
The easiest thing to say here is follow someone who knows. A fair share of folks, including myself, has gotten lost out here unless you know exactly where you are going. A trail heads down and right from the parking lot then crosses two small streams before turning left onto a forest service road. Continue along this road until a faint trail heads off to the right through some tall scrub brush. This trail will eventually take you to a small boulder field and cliff band. Just before the boulders, turn left and follow the drainage wash uphill until the trail becomes more defined. This will eventually take you to the Hideaway area. For the Happy Valley, you’re on your own, ask a local or pick up the New England Bouldering Guidebook by Tim Kemple and Pete Ward for more detailed information.
Current issues
Landowners have expressed concern in the recent rise in popularity of this area, especially since the release of the guidebook, however no action has been taken on their behalf and at the moment, everything appears OK. The WMCC has attempted to make contact with the landowners to offer our assistance if concerns arise.
