By Riley Bailey

At this point in the semester I’m sure you’re getting overwhelmed with work and probably can’t wait for Thanksgiving break. I can’t believe it's already so close! In the meantime, it’s important to take time to yourself and explore the many things to do around Amherst to help you destress, take a break from the schoolwork, and enjoy the fall weather. These are some of my favorites!

Atkins Farm

Take a trip to Atkins Farm! Atkins Farm is a gateway to fall during this time of year. It feels like you are walking straight into fall. There are pumpkins, apple cider donuts, pies, and fresh food from our local farms to choose from. My friends and I like to go there for breakfast on the weekends because they have amazing egg sandwiches! I highly recommend taking a trip to Atkins to destress but also because it’s a staple Fall destination in Amherst.

Pumpkin Carve

There are so many local farm stands located throughout Hadley and Amherst. Grab a few of your friends, go buy pumpkins and carve them together! My friends and I did this last week and not only was it fun but it distracted us from our busy lives at school. We were also able to support a small business!

Go Hiking

A little bit past Atkins Farm there is a beautiful hiking trail at Bare Mountain. It’s about a two mile hike - one mile up and one mile down. It’s definitely steep but the view at the top is worth it. You can see all of UMass and almost all of Amherst at the peak. There’s so many other great hiking trails around Amherst as well. Get outside! It’s so good for your mental health and physical health plus, it can really help you decompress. I recommend going with a friend!

Norwottuck Rail Trail

Not far from campus there is the Norwottuck Rail Trail. It’s a very scenic trail (especially in the fall) and has entrances all around Amherst, Northampton, and Hadley. The easiest entrance for UMass students is on the corner of South Pleasant Street and Snell Street. If you have a bike, great! If not, just take a walk!