With a chance to gain some fresh air and head out of the office for a day, the PLA crew (missing a few key members due to sporting injuries) were anxious to head up the 2,005 ft. high mountain. Climbing one of New England’s many mountains provided PLA staff members the opportunity to bond with colleagues, while also getting some healthy exercise. Luckily, it was not as HOT as the office hike from 2013 (98 degrees Fahrenheit!) to Mount Monadnock, the staff were able to enjoy a more mild hike this time around.
As part of PLA’s annual tradition, we took off the Friday before Labor Day weekend to trek up Mount Wachusett. The staff at PLA was eager to hike Mount Wachusett, located only about an hour away from the PLA office here in Somerville.
Taking about an hour to reach the top, the PLA staff took their time to see the forests and lakes of central Massachusetts, admiring the breathtaking views provided by Mount Wachusett. The outlook provided a panorama of The Berkshires to the West, Mount Mondnock to the North, and also a view of the Prudential Tower and other skyscrapers of Boston to the East.
At the top of Mount Wachusett, the PLA staff stopped to take a few photographs of the spectacular vista. Catherine Harnist’s son, Oli (short for Olivier) took our official portrait, which showcased our fit staff. Oli was also the best hiker in the group, barely perspiring as he raced up and down the mountain with ease.
The trek down Mount Wachusett’s backside provided a relaxing walk along neatly aligned rock paths fitted with overlooks of nearby lakes. With a crisp blue sky and ideal temperature the hike provided a satiating challenge. At the end of the hike, PLA staff enjoyed their lunches at a small picnic area back down at the bottom.
Stay tuned for our next hiking adventure…Mount Adams, Mount Washington or even K2! On second thought, we may have to do a little bit of training…
