Q-MoB Easy Hike: Pleasant Valley Wildlife Refuge (Lenox, MA)

After beavers were hunted into extinction in Massachusetts Pleasant Valley Wildlife Refuge was the first place in the state where beavers were re-introduced in the state. This means the Pleasant Valley Wildlife Refuge is beaver colongy is one of the largest and oldest in the State, and they have re-shaped the valley into a series of ponds, wetlands, and diverse habitats for a rich array of plant, animal, & bird species.

This hike is quite beautiful and doable in hiking boots even if there has been snow, but we do recommend water-proof boots and hiking poles (you can borrow a pair from us if you don't have them) if conditions are snowy or muddy from lots of rain.

WHAT TO BRING:

• Please bring $10-$20 Tax-Deductible Donation (paid online or as cash or check made out to "Q-MoB Inc"), unless this is your very 1st Q-MoB event ever, or you are a Q-MoB monthly donor. Q-MoB is a registered 501(c)3 Non-Profit Public Charity in MA and with the IRS & your donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
• rain-gear & warm layers (rain coat, rain pants, fleece or sweater, warm hat, gloves)
• appropriate water-proof footwear (that can get muddy),
• snacks, water,
• consider bringing hiking poles and cleats/crampons, especially if conditions may be muddy, snowy, uneven/rocky, or you have trouble with ascents or descents (we can lend you hiking poles if you don't have a set)

WEATHER: Please check the weather at the hike location from your home before you leave for the hike, so that you will be able bring the right clothes to deal with any last minute changes in the weather. Weather in the Berkshires can change quickly and it always good to be prepared for rain, wind, snow, & unexpectedly cooler or warmer temps than were forecast the day before. We will only cancel the hike if there is a forecast of a thunderstorm or ice storm or the Mass DOT declares a weather emergency and discourages driving. We will text you should this happen the morning of the hike. We hike in rain or light snow, so long as conditions are safe.

CARPOOLING/RIDE-SHARE: Carpooling is a great way to get to know other people, save money on gas, and help to reduce your carbon footprint and save the planet. If you need a ride or are open to carpooling, please indicate that when you are registering, & our ride coordinator will try to match you with people nearby who are interested in carpooling or offering rides.

REACHING US DAY OF HIKE: If you have trouble finding us, will be late, or can't make it, please call/text Mitch 413-717-7816 or Bart at 503-734-6508

Host or Publisher Q-MoB (Queer Men of the Berkshires)