September 10, 2025 – Holyoke, Massachusetts

Difficulty: Easy

Length: Approximately 2 miles

Max elevation: 679 ft.– total elevation gain approximately 211 ft.

Route type: Lollipop-Loop

Map: No Map Available

Trailhead parking: Community Field Rd, Holyoke, MA 01040

Ample parking and restrooms are available at Community Field.

Overview:

Scott Tower, officially known as the Walter Scott Memorial Tower, is a 56-foot stone structure located in Anniversary Hill Park in Holyoke, Massachusetts. Built in 1940 as a public works project, the tower was constructed using stone quarried directly from the hill on which it stands. It was named in honor of Colonel Walter Scott (1861-1935), the original owner and donor of the land.

Designed as both a scenic overlook and a symbol of community pride, the tower offers panoramic views from its observation platform, accessible via a spiral staircase.

Visitors reach the tower by following a paved, one-mile path through a wooded area, making it a popular destination for hikers, history buffs, and locals seeking a quiet escape.

During the 1940’s, the site was further developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and the Works Progress Administration (WPA), which added trails and footbridges to improve public access. However, since the 2000’s, the tower has suffered from neglect, including graffiti and vandalism, raising concerns about its preservation.

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History:

Originally known as “Crafts Hill,” Anniversary Hill Park in Holyoke was established between 1923 and 1939 to commemorate the City’s 50th anniversary. It became a popular destination for recreation, featuring stonework and Scott Tower, built in the 1940’s by the Civilian Conservation Corps.

However, the park declined after the 1960’s when I-91 split the landscape, isolating Scott Tower and limiting access. While nearby Community Field was revitalized in 2010, the larger park remained underused.

In 2020, Kestrel Land Trust partnered with the City to protect 14 forested acres near Scott Tower, reconnecting and expanding parklands. In 2024, invasive brush was cleared, views were restored, and a new, accessible entrance with parking and a gravel path was created west of I-91.

Future plans include adding community amenities, restoring historic stonework, and managing graffiti—revitalizing the park as a welcoming space for all.

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Trails Overview:

The main route to Scott Tower is an old paved road open only to foot traffic. Several dirt footpaths branch off from it, but we did not explore them. Currently, no trail map is available for the area.

The image below is a map layer from Gaia GPS, showing some or all of the available trails and paths.

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Hike Overview:

Scott Tower had been on my list of places to visit for years. During a recent road trip to Vermont, I decided to take a short detour to stretch my legs and finally see this historic landmark.

The walk to the tower is a relatively easy uphill climb along a paved road. While there are no signs or markers along the way, simply following the road toward the highest point will get you there.

The spiral staircase inside the tower is partially damaged—some steps are missing or unstable—and it’s quite dark as you ascend. I recommend bringing a small flashlight for safety.

In the past, the area around Scott Tower had a reputation for illegal activity, including graffiti, litter, and drug use. However, the park has seen significant cleanup efforts in recent years. Still, as it’s a secluded spot, it’s wise to remain cautious during your visit.

This simple lollipop loop starts at Community Field and follows a paved road, passing under both the northbound and southbound lanes of Interstate 91 before reaching the tower and returning.

I saw a sign near the restrooms warning that bears have been spotted throughout the park, so be “Bear Aware.”

As shown in the graph below, the elevation gain is minimal.

There is ample parking available at Community Field where there are restrooms available.

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The Hike:

From the northwestern end of the Community Field parking lot, proceed along the paved road past the gate. This is Scott Tower Road (as labeled on Google Maps), which passes beneath both the northbound and southbound lanes of Interstate 91.

Follow the paved road uphill. Shortly, it curves to the right, passing an old stone wall and a stone staircase on the left.

When you reach a fork in the road with the communication towers visible ahead on the right, either path will lead you to the tower. The left fork is the quicker route. We took the right fork because we weren’t sure which way to go. This marks the beginning of the loop portion of the hike.

If you’re taking the longer route (bearing right at the fork), when the paved section ends, continue straight onto the gravel road. Shortly after, turn left at a junction marked by a rock.

Follow the road uphill for a short distance until you reach the base of Scott Tower.

Though undeniably tall, the tower doesn’t dominate its surroundings. It stands on a walled platform, with an entrance framed by pillars made of native stone. These pillars support a wide balcony, ten feet above the ground. Inside, 68 steps spiral upward to a small lookout post offering a sweeping, 360-degree view of the lower Valley—from Mt. Tom all the way to Hartford.

In 1960, the construction of Interstate 91 cut through Anniversary Hill Park, separating part of the park, including the tower, and reducing accessibility. As access declined over the following decades, public use of the tower and its surroundings also diminished.

Watch your step while climbing the spiral staircase, some steps are cracked or missing. The stairwell is also quite dark.

The lower level of the tower.

The second level of Scott Tower.

Scott Tower offers scenic views of the city and the Connecticut River Valley. It stands on land that was once part of Holyoke’s largest and most impressive city park, originally opened in 1923 to commemorate the city’s 50th anniversary.

Over the years, the trees have grown, obscuring the 360° views that were once visible from the top of the tower. However, there are still glimpses. During leaf-off season, the views are probably much better.

Graffiti, vandalism, and neglect have damaged the historic tower, which once offered past generations a hiking area and a unique view of the Connecticut River Valley.

In the 1970’s, at least one cleanup effort, part of the ‘Legacy of Parks’ conservation program, was undertaken to remove graffiti.

On December 11, 1941, shortly after the park was completed, Holyoke’s volunteer air raid observation post was relocated to the top of Scott Tower. Standing over 550 feet above sea level, the tower offered a commanding view of the surrounding countryside, making it an ideal lookout for potential air attacks. City officials worked with the Army and the American Legion to establish a camp at the site.

When you’re ready to continue, take the paved road that begins parallel to the one you came up, to begin your descent.

At the intersection with Scott Tower Road, turn right and follow the paved road downhill, retracing your steps back to the parking area where the hike began.

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Review:

A short and easy walk along a mostly paved road, but the tower and its history make it a worthwhile destination. I wish I’d had more time to explore the surrounding trails, but it was definitely worth the visit.

Pros:

Scott Tower, some views, historical features, seclusion.

Cons:

No trail map or informational signage.

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Take a hike!

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Sources:

• Anniversary Hill Park – Kestrel Land Trust
• Crafts Hill, Massachusetts – Peakbagger
• Crafts Hill – Peakery
• Anniversary Field
• Friends of Scott Tower – Facebook Group

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