Muddy Pond, Washington

Muddy Pond, Washington

Washington, Massachusetts 01223

Muddy Pond (MassachusettsPaddler) webpage

About this Location

The Housatonic River’s three main branches rise out of three ponds in Berkshire County: the East Branch of the Housatonic begins at Muddy Pond in Hinsdale and Washington, the West Branch begins at Pontoosuc Lake in Lanesborough and Pittsfield, and the Southwest Branch of the Housatonic begins at Richmond Pond, Richmond.

Muddy Pond is the farthest distance from Long Island Sound via the river at 159 miles. It is a real challenge to paddle the whole Housatonic River!

There are four Muddy Ponds in Massachusetts. If you do a web search, you will find them in the towns of Washington, Boxborough, Oakham, and Westminster The one in Berkshire County is unique, isolated, and seldom visited. Access is not obvious and difficult because of railroad tracks that run north-south along the pond.

There is a car-top launch along the railroad tracks. Turn right into a gravel area near the double railroad tracks. (If the road turns 90 degrees left, turn back.) Cross over the railroad tracks and follow the gravel service road for half a mile. There is a grassy pullover where you can launch on the pond. There is no formal boat-launching ramp, but it is possible to launch car-top boats.

Features

  • Restrooms on site

  • Wheelchair accessible trail

  • Entrance fee

Content from Muddy Pond (MassachusettsPaddler) webpage

Last updated November 24, 2023