A 2,750-acre DCR state forest on the Berkshire Plateau shared with Middlefield and Worthington, with its most distinct Peru-side entrance on Curtin Road. Rocky, rooted double-track trails climb to Garnet Hill, a 2,200-foot former lookout site with a history dating to a 1935 development.
What to expect
Trails
Garnet Hill Trail: double-track, 8 to 10 feet wide, very rocky, rooted and uneven with muddy sections; leads to the Garnet Hill/Garnet Peak overlook at about…
Dogs
On a leash or tether no longer than 10 feet (or caged/bridled), with exceptions for hunting, hunt-dog training, sledding and search-dog training; DCR's statewide pet rule (302 CMR 12.13). A local hiking guide separately describes the…
Hours
Half hour before sunrise to half hour after sunset, DCR statewide (302 CMR 12.03)
Accessibility
Curtin Road lot has an 8% grade slope and no accessible parking spaces; trails are rocky, rooted natural surface
Hunt
Allowed archery Oct 5-Nov 28, shotgun Nov 30-Dec 12, primitive firearms Dec 14-31, 2026 (deer); other species per statewide calendar
Fish
Allowed per statewide MA freshwater fishing regulations
Birdwatching
Allowed year-round
Off Road Vehicle
Allowed per posted trail dates
Managed by
DCR Region West
413-442-8928 · WebsiteWhat's here
On site
Info kiosk
DCR has added new signage to help with navigation
Common questions
Is Peru State Forest the same as Middlefield State Forest?
They're adjoining but separate DCR properties that together form one ecological reserve on the Berkshire Plateau. Peru State Forest has its own advocacy group and its own Peru-side entrances on Curtin Road and Lake View Road; Middlefield State Forest's documented trailhead is on Skyline Trail in Middlefield.
Can I bring my dog to Peru State Forest?
On a leash or tether no longer than 10 feet (or caged/bridled), with exceptions for hunting, hunt-dog training, sledding and search-dog training; DCR's statewide pet rule (302 CMR 12.13). A local hiking guide separately describes the forest as dog-friendly.
Is Peru State Forest wheelchair accessible?
Curtin Road lot has an 8% grade slope and no accessible parking spaces; trails are rocky, rooted natural surface
What rules should I know at Peru State Forest?
No open fires without written permission from the Director and local fire chief; no camping without written permission; no unleashed pets except during hunting, hunt-dog training, sledding or search-dog training (302 CMR 12.00 series, statewide DCR rules).