In a few weeks I will be visiting the kids cabin in the Berkshires. A few years ago I did the route below but this time I would like to avoid going through Pittstown, Mass. Appreciate any suggestions for a modified route about the same mileage and climbing.

What is your starting point? Hand Hollow? Do you want to walk out the door, jump on your bike and go, or are you willing to drive to a different starting point?

In a general way, I'd say that the area north and east of your previous loop, starting around Dalton and Hinsdale, should be pretty nice, probably a little bit hillier too but not killer. Personally I'd avoid Lenox and Stockbridge even more than Pittsfield -- narrow roads and too many cars, especially in the summer.

My starting point is Canaan, NY. All on the bike. I remember the shoulders were a bit narrow heading South from Pittsfield (and non-existent going through Pittsfield). So, heading NE would be better? Maybe I'll work out a route on Map My Ride and see what it means for hills. Be nice to see some new country although I like the charm of Stockbridge and Lee, etc. Road bike 18 speed.

What about riding up Graylock to Williamstown and then back around?

I think that as long as you stay off Route 7 between Pittsfield and Stockbridge it's pretty much all good. Route 7 south of Stockbridge, going toward Great Barrington and Egremont, has some of that Berkshire quaintness but is less congested. That would also allow you to head back toward Canaan on Rtes 23 and 22 through Hillsdale and Austerlitz in NY, not as cute as Lenox and Stockbridge but pretty country.

Or you could head east from Lee and get on Route 8 and head either north or south; there may not be much of a shoulder but you should have the road to yourself most of the time.

That was a thought but don't feel I am currently in condition to do that.

Mapped out something similar but more hilly than my previous route.

That sounds good too. Will map out a few of these suggestions and see what comes out of it.Thanks.