Hidden Cave of Mount Toby

Hike through the forests of Mount Toby to visit a hidden cave that reveals the hidden geologic history of the Pioneer Valley. Our hike will take us up and over one of the low ridges of the mountain to an exposed crevasse that hides the entrance to a cave with narrow passages, low and high ceilings, and a small bat hibernaculum. Our hike involves some steep hills and some rugged terrain through a beautiful hemlock forest. Those who are interested in exploring the cave itself will be given helmets but you need to bring your own headlamp or flashlight…or both! Dress to be outside in the forest all day and to crawl and scramble on and between rocks in the cave. Be sure to bring a small backpack with lunch and plenty to drink! Our round trip hike will be about 2.5 miles, allowing plenty of time for exploring, taking pictures, and looking for animal tracks and sign.