The Outdoor Center is designed to connect to its surroundings and to nature. As you approach the Outdoor center, the three roof gables relate to the three surrounding peaks: Mount Greylock in the center, Cole Mountain to the southeast and Ragged Mountain to the north. Surrounding the building are direct views of Mount Greylock, a small stream, a pond, and the Glen Loop Trail at the heart of the 1,063-acre property. The trail passes by a pond and flourishing wetlands.

The Outdoor Center further connects with nature with its large windows that bring the vibrancy of nature and filtered light from the outside to inside, and the terrace that allows visitors to move easily between the inside and outside and view Mount Greylock.