Joseph Allen Skinner State Park occupies Mount Holyoke, at the western end of the Mount Holyoke Range, and is managed by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation.
The summit’s broad views over the Connecticut River Valley made it a popular destination in the early 19th century. Today, visitors can reach it by seasonal automobile road or hiking trail. The Northampton getting-around guide covers local transport options for reaching places around town.
How do you get from Northampton to Joseph Allen Skinner State Park?
Joseph Allen Skinner State Park is about 13 minutes by car from North King Motel. From the park, the road climbs to Mount Holyoke’s summit during its seasonal operating period; you can also hike up to the summit.
If you’re planning to hike, remember that the summit trails connect with the Mount Holyoke Range trail network, including the Metacomet-Monadnock Trail.
At the top, start with the Connecticut River Valley views, then look for the historic Mount Holyoke Summit House. The one-room summit house built in 1821 is described by the National Park Service as New England’s first mountaintop structure.
In 1849, John and Fanny French bought the summit property, built a larger hotel and added a tramway from the mountain’s base. The summit is part of the Hockanum Rural Historic District, listed in the National Register of Historic Places. For local transport information, the Northampton getting-around guide covers ways to get around town.
How can you plan a visit to the park?
The Mount Holyoke Summit House is a former hotel that now operates seasonally as a museum, with guided interior tours and interpretive programs during its open season. Its usual season runs from mid-May through mid-October.
Plan a weekend or holiday visit if you want to see inside, and confirm the day’s access before setting out. The summit itself is accessible by automobile road during its seasonal operating period or by hiking trail.
Opening hours
- Monday to Sunday: 9 AM–4 PM
Last checked November 2026. Hours can change on holidays and for special events.
Begin with the summit views, then visit the Summit House and learn about the mountain’s tourism history. The artist Thomas Cole visited Mount Holyoke and painted “View from Mount Holyoke, Northampton, Massachusetts, after a Thunderstorm (The Oxbow)” in 1836. If you’re arranging other stops in town, the one-day Northampton itinerary can help with that part of the trip.
FAQs
Where can you check access details?
The Summit House usually opens from mid-May through mid-October, Saturdays, Sundays and holidays from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., for guided interior tours and interpretive programs. The summit road operates seasonally; hiking trails are another way to reach the summit. Check current access details before your visit, especially if you’re planning to drive up or tour the house.