J.A. Skinner State Park

Joseph Allen Skinner State Park is a state-owned, public recreation area located in the towns of Hadley and South Hadley. The state park surrounds Mount Holyoke, the westernmost peak of the Mount Holyoke Range. At the summit is the historic Prospect House, an old hotel first opened in 1851 by John French and his wife Fanny. The park is managed by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation.

Barstow’s Dairy Store and Bakery is just a hop skip and a jump from J.A. Skinner State Park – an area with a unique history and story. You can visit the Old Prospect House, or Summit House, year round by hiking to the top. You can also take the auto road in the summer time – the house is often only open on the weekends. We recommend you either start or end your trip to the summit with a stop at Barstow’s for lunch or for ice cream!

The park offers scenic views, picnicking, and over 40 miles (64 km) of trails including an 11-mile (18 km) stretch of the Metacomet-Monadnock Trail.

Visit the State Park’s website to learn more about road and Prospect House open hours, trails, and special educational events held at the Summit.

Please do not cut through the farm to visit Barstow’s Dairy Store and Bakery from Skinner State Park.  The farm is a bio-secure area, our animals’ health and safety is our priority.  Additionally, large moving equipment like trucks and tractors pose a safety risk to visitors.  Never visit any farm beyond its public zone unless you are with a tour guide or have express permission from the farmer. 

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