Mount Greylock – Inspired Moby Dick?

Here is an interesting post from one of our networked authors. You can read more by Ron Chase on his blog Chase Outdoors.

Mount Greylock – Inspired Moby Dick?

Hundreds, perhaps thousands, hike to the top of Mount Greylock, Massachusetts highpoint, each year.  Few, if any, realize that this impressive whale-shaped peak that dominates the western Massachusetts landscape may have inspired one of America’s classic literary works.  That’s right, its distinctive contour is reputed to have motivated Herman Melville to write his classic, Moby Dick.

Artist Norman Rockwell and philosopher Henry David Thoreau were also attracted to the area for its majestic, inspirational beauty.  Cultural history notwithstanding, Greylock is a great hike.  Multiple trails weave their way to the developed summit where there is a 100-foot lighthouse-style tower constructed to honor the fallen heroes of World War I.  Situated in the picturesque Berkshire Mountains, choose a trail and enjoy a outstanding outdoor adventure in a compellingly historic environment.

One of the easiest routes to the summit is detailed in our book, Mountains for Mortals – New England, and additional options are discussed.  GPS Trailhead coordinates, Key Information, trail map, elevation profile and photos are also provided.