Hancock offers recreation, seclusion among Western Massachusetts’ mountains
Hancock’s mountainous landscape influences many aspects of the small Massachusetts town, from jobs to simply getting around. For example, Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort, one of the largest attractions and employers, welcomes thousands of people to its ski slopes every year. Meanwhile, the area is so mountainous that it’s impossible to go straight from one end of Hancock to the other. Instead, drivers have to cross into New York for a few miles to circumvent the rugged terrain in the center of the community. The topography brings many residents as well, whether they come to the rural community to live in a mountainside resort or a house secluded among Hancock’s hills and valleys.
Skiing and hiking in Berkshire County
Skiers hit the slopes at Jiminy Peak from November to April, but the resort doesn’t close once the snow melts. People also come in the summer and fall to race on mountain coasters, ride chairlifts over the Jericho Valley and climb the resort’s ropes course. Jiminy Peak draws tourists and year-round residents, while also serving as a common place for locals to work. “It’s the kids’ first job for when they start working,” says Lisa Wellspeak, who lives in neighboring Lanesborough. People can explore the region’s natural landscape at Pittsfield State Forest, 11,000 acres of woodlands that cover part of Hancock. More than 30 miles of trails meander through the forest, leading to popular spots like Berry Pond. Campers spend nights around the water, while anglers often cast from the shore.
Housing includes resort condos and rural homes
Many of the homes bought and sold in Hancock are condos at Jiminy Peak. Along with a mountainside location, units come with access to resort amenities such as pools, a fitness center and on-site restaurants. Prices vary from $125,000 to $500,000. Single-family homes scattered around Hancock vary in style from ranch to Colonial Revival to contemporary designs. One feature houses share is roomy lots, typically measuring an acre or more. Many homes sit on hills, providing views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Single-family homes sell between $300,000 and $540,000.
Kids zoned to Hancock Elementary, Mount Greylock Regional School
Local public schools are a draw for many buyers, says Barb Hassan, owner of Barb Hassan Realty. “They have great [athletics and cultural] programs, and they start them very early,” she says. Hancock Elementary School’s student body consists of about 60 prekindergartners through sixth graders. This results in small classes where teachers can focus on individualized learning. Despite the school’s small size, Hancock Elementary offers extracurriculars such as Lego robotics and drama. The school does not receive a grade from Niche. Meanwhile, Mount Greylock Regional School accepts middle and high schoolers, scoring an A-minus. The school’s dozens of sports teams and clubs include jazz band and cross-country skiing.
Dining at Jiminy Peak, shopping to the south
Most of Hancock’s restaurants are located in and around Jiminy Peak. Diners can play cornhole and horseshoes while waiting on their food at Bluebird & Co., at the entrance to Jiminy Peak. At the resort, The Country Store serves breakfast and lunch and carries enough grocery staples to stock a pantry. Residents can drive to Target in Lanesborough or Big Y in Pittsfield for more groceries. Lee Premium Outlets hosts about 60 stores, mostly fashion outlets,15 miles south of Hancock.
Highways connect to Pittsfield, Albany
Cars are necessary to get around Hancock, with several highways passing through or near the community. Pittsfield, the county seat, is about 15 miles away, while Albany is a 30-mile drive west.
Written By
Alex Soderstrom
