By Callie MacPherson
It’s officially spooky season out here in Amherst! Everyone has their favorite fall activity at home, whether it be apple picking with friends or hiking through the fall foliage. I am here to help you make the most of your fall season here on campus with all of the best activities to do around Amherst.
Amherst can be absolutely breath-taking, and now is the prime time to experience all of the fall foliage. If you want to feel one with nature, I recommend renting bikes with a group of friends--valley share electric bikes are so much fun--or taking a nice jog through the bike trail in Amherst. It surprises me how many people are unaware of this beautiful path! This is a great way to stay active on the weekends and experience the crisp fall air. The bike trail is about one mile from campus, right past the plaza with CVS and the Big Y. If you want to immerse yourself even more in nature this fall, grab some friends and head over to Mount Holyoke State park. It is only about a 10-15 minute drive from campus and a great hiking experience. You will not want to miss out on the view of campus surrounded by all the fall foliage.
If hiking and biking isn’t your ideal “fun fall day”, I have some more suggestions! You could take a drive to one of the many pick your own apple orchards in the area. I suggest doing your research beforehand because only a few orchards offer the warm and delicious apple cider donuts--I suggest Apex orchards in Shelbourne. You could also walk downtown to Glazed Doughnut Shop for some of the best apple cider donuts only 5 minutes from campus. Pro tip: ask for them warmed up!
If you and a couple friends want to switch up your usual weekend routines, take a drive or a Peter Pan bus to Six Flags! Fright Fest is the best way to get into the spooky spirit, also while going on some of the best rides in New England.
I definitely recommend making an effort to get off campus and enjoy the fall season before it’s too late. Sooner than later, we will be snowed in for the long winter months!