Located in western Massachusetts, the Pioneer Valley is home to a number of contiguous municipalities, each providing ample activities for visitors. Hampshire County is often referred to as the Five College Area, since the region is home to the University of Massachusetts Amherst, as well as Hampshire, Amherst, Mount Holyoke and Smith Colleges. In Amherst, tour the homestead of famous American author Emily Dickinson at the Emily Dickinson Museum. Outdoor recreation abounds in the Pioneer Valley and Charlemont boasts whitewater rafting, kayaking and hiking opportunities, as well as downhill skiing at the Berkshire East Ski Resort. J.A. Skinner State Park in Hadley also attracts the adventurous as it is located atop Mount Holyoke and is an ideal place to picnic and hike. The largest center in the area and the birthplace of basketball, Springfield hosts attractions such as the Hatikvah Holocaust Education Center, the Springfield Science Museum, the Museum of Fine Arts and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.