Hike of the Month: Richardson Overlook

Tucked away on the eastern edge of Northfield, Massachusetts is a scenic viewpoint that offers visitors breathtaking views of the Connecticut River Valley, Mount Grace, Mount Monadnock and Mount Ascutney. Mile after emerald mile of forest extends in nearly every direction – giving you an expansive vista that shows off peaks in three different states.

You’re probably thinking to yourself: A view this stunning must be hard to reach -- earned only after a long, exhausting trek. But luckily for us, the hike to Richardson Overlook is surprisingly easy.

From the trailhead – which can be accessed via Alexander Hill Road in Northfield – the hike out to Richardson Overlook is approximately 0.3-miles and gains about 100 feet of elevation. Follow the dirt road until you reach a parking lot clearing beneath powerlines, the trailhead is marked with a kiosk.

It’s 0.6-miles out-and-back and you’ll gain roughly 100 feet of elevation. At the top, you’ll find new picnic tables, courtesy of Mount Grace volunteer Jerry Wagener, and a cabin that’s operated by the Appalachian Mountain Club. Whether in the soft green of spring, the vibrant colors of autumn, or the snowy white of winter, the view from the top is always spectacular, making it a year-round destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Hike Details:

Distance: 0.6-miles

Total Elevation Gain: 100 feet

Type: Out-and-back

Trail Overview:

• Mount Grace manages and stewards this 38-acre mountain top property
• In 2011, Sam and Barbara Richardson donated a Conservation Restriction to the Town of Northfield on a 38-acre lot on Stratton Mountain. In 2022, Sam and Barbara conveyed the land to Mount Grace.
• Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) manages the Richardson-Zlogar cabin, which sits at the top of the scenic overlook and features tent platforms, a loft, 3 twin mattresses a privy and picnic tables outside. Reservations are required for the cabin. You can reserve the cabin on the New England Trail website.
• For those looking for a more challenging route up to Richardson Overlook, there is a 5-mile route (850-feet elevation gain) from the Brush Mountain Conservation Area Parking lot on Gulf Road.

Join us for a September Event at Richardson Overlook:

If you’re interested in visiting this spot, join Mount Grace and Adventure East on Tuesday, September 17 for a Full Moon Hike to Richardson Overlook to watch the moon rise over the New England countryside. Tickets and registration for the event are through Adventure East, with a discount for Mount Grace members. See you out on the trails!