Lake Arcadia, the current home of the Five-College team, is located just off of Route 9 in Belchertown, eight miles southeast of the Amherst College campus. The team keeps our boats and equipment at the Belchertown town beach, which the town generously lets us use during their off season. Although the lake is small, it is known for its gusty, shifty winds that challenge even the most experienced sailors.
DIRECTIONS
From Amherst College: Follow Route 9 east from the College towards Belchertown. Make a right turn onto Federal Street, which can be found easily by looking for the "Dwight Chapel" signs. You will see Lake Arcadia on your left through the houses and trees after approximately two miles. Just past the lake make a left onto Town Beach Road. Follow that road to the fenced parking lot on the left.
From the North or South: Take I-91 and exit at Route 9 Amherst/Northampton. Proceed east on Rt. 9 for six miles to the town of Amherst and follow the directions above.
From the East: Take I-90 (Mass Pike) to Exit 8 Palmer/Amherst. Pay the toll and make a left onto Rt. 32 North. Continue for 0.8 miles and make a left onto High St. Go straight for 2.2 miles and at the stop sign bear right onto Rt. 181 North. Follow the signs to Belchertown/Amherst. 181 North will take you into downtown Belchertown. Bear left onto Rt. 9 West after passing the McDonald's. Continue west on Rt. 9 for one mile and turn left onto Federal St. at Tilton Automotive. Cross over the railroad tracks and look for Town Beach Road on your right. Follow that road to the fenced parking left on your left.