Property Description	166 acres | Established 1929
Chesterfield Gorge was initially carved from metamorphic bedrock by the torrents of glacial meltwater; the gorge continues to be shaped by the East Branch of the Westfield River. The surrounding transitional hardwood forest features oak, pine, and hemlock, and is home to bears, bobcats, and turkeys. Visitors may enjoy a half-mile trail along cliff tops that offer views of the gorge, the river, and the surrounding forest.  Look for trout basking in the pools below. Stone abutments of a ca.1762 bridge that spanned the river are all that remain of an important link in the former post road between Boston and Albany, NY. Stagecoaches used the bridge, and a toll gate was established at its eastern end. During the American Revolutionary War, redcoats marched over this bridge toward Boston following their defeat at Saratoga, NY. In 1835, floodwaters swept away the bridge along with nearby gristmills and sawmills. Chesterfield Gorge is the entrance to an extensive natural area along the Westfield River, recently designated a National Wild and Scenic River. Catch-and-release fly fishing for trout is a popular pastime.
Trails
A one-half-mile trail runs along the top of the Gorge. Easy walking.  The Reservation is adjacent to the newly created East Branch Trail that runs seven miles south along the old River Road through Gilbert Bliss State Forest to the Knightsville Dam area.  Chesterfield Gorge is also adjacent to the General Marquis de Lafayette Trail, which runs east to west through the hilltowns.
Facilities
Basic public restrooms. Picnic tables. Fire rings (fuel wood must be brought in).
Literature
Printed trail maps are distributed free from the ranger station (seasonally) and bulletin board in parking area. Please understand that supplies periodically run out. You may also download trail maps from this web site or mail order trail maps in advance of your visit.
Hunting Advisory
Seasonal hunting is permitted at this property subject to all state and town laws.  Click here for further information.
Property Acquisition History
Original acreage acquired in 1929. Additional land purchased in 1949 with funds given by Sidney L. Beals and Mrs. Stanley King. Additional land given by the Pioneer Valley Association in 1950; Quinnehtuk Co. in 1955; and Stanley and Mildred Greimann in 1994.

E-mail:
pvregion@ttor.org

When to Visit:
Year-round, daily, 8am to sunset. Allow a minimum of one half hour.

Admission Fees & Permits:
Trustees Members free. Nonmembers: adult $2, child (under 12) free. Fees collected by ranger; when ranger is not on duty, honor system applies.

Regulations / Advisories:

How to Get There:
From intersection of Route 143 and Ireland Street in Chesterfield, take Ireland St. south and follow for .8 mi. Turn left onto River Road. Entrance and parking area (20 cars) are immediately on the left.

Road Map:

To main entrance