Explore a former working forest and trek to a summit that rewards with panoramic views from Mount Wachusett to Vermont's Green Mountains.

The ascent from the main entrance to the summit of Peaked (pronounced “pea-kid”) Mountain is a workout, a climb along a trail that is strenuous in places and gains 467 feet in elevation. But once you reach the top, the 1,227-foot summit provides spectacular views of undisturbed rural and forested landscapes in every direction: a sweep of rolling New England countryside with valley farms and small villages, mountains, hills, and even the distant city of Springfield.

At Peaked Tract, fire roads lead through quiet woods that attract songbirds, such as thrushes and warblers, as well as turkey vultures, hawks, and barred owls. At the Miller Forest Tract, a second trail leads to and encircles Lunden Pond, where you can glimpse beavers, herons, and other wildlife drawn to the quiet waters; other trails at the Miller Tract lead to a historic hunting cabin. Adjacent to Peaked Mountain and abutting Shenipsit State Forest at the Connecticut state border, you’ll find a 530-acre parcel of wildlife conservation land owned by a local partner organization, the Norcross Wildlife Foundation.

Please note that parking lots are plowed in the winter, but may not be open for 24-72 hours following a storm.

The AllTrails website has a description and map of a hike at Peaked Mountain Preserve.