Massachusetts is a beautiful place to spend a winter, especially if you love getting outdoors. There are a number of places across the state that truly shine under a layer of fresh snow. Check out these lovely spots that will make you feel like you’ve wandered into Santa’s realm.
1. Chestnut Hill Brook, Montague
Chestnut Hill Brook is a stream in Franklin County about three miles from Montague, and is nearby North Leverett, Stacy Mountain and Jackson Hill. Coming across this swollen creek running over a layer of crystalline ice feels like stumbling upon a scene from a postcard.
2. Greenough Trail Land, Carlisle
Greenough Trail Land was first settled by the Solomon Andrews family in 1765. Today, it is a stunning network of trails and paths, popular with cross-country skiers and ice-skaters. The land covers 242 acres, and features a lovely duck pond, footbridge and groves of red and white pines.
There are parking lots on Maple and East streets, and two trail entrances off Maple Street. You can also access this walking area from Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge.
3. The Martha’s Vineyard Land Bank
The Martha’s Vineyard Land Bank was created in the 1980s to preserve the island’s natural beauty, and includes over 3,100 acres of conserved land. These public trails are open from sunrise to sundown, and look absolutely surreal under a soft coating of glittering snow.
4. Salem Cross Inn, West Brookfield
The Salem Cross Inn offers sleigh rides and fireside feasts that rival any celebration at the North Pole. The restaurant and inn are surrounded by peaceful, natural beauty and look especially magical in the snow. (260 W Main Street, West Brookfield)
5. Boston Common Frog Pond
Whirl around on the ice in the middle of Boston's loveliest natural space. This "frog pond" is a prime spot to cool off during the summer, but during the cooler months it transforms into an enchanting place to test your skating chops. Skate rentals are available.
6. Nantucket
The hilly dunes of Nantucket's beaches look like the soft folds of a white velvet blanket under a light dusting of snow. Get there early in the morning to catch the glow of sunrise as it turns the landscape to glittering pink.
7. Boston Public Gardens
While these gardens spend most of the spring and summer in colorful bloom, they metamorphose into a winter wonderland of frosty trees, glittering snow and fairytale paths as soon as the weather turns. The signature footbridge (pictured) has featured in a number of well-known films, and is the perfect place to stop for a romantic moment or picture.
8. Nashoba Valley
The Nashoba Valley ski area is the perfect mixture of majestic winter beauty and snowy fun. Even if you don't ski, you'll appreciate gazing out at the slopes while sipping hot chocolate.
9. Mount Greylock
The peak of Mount Greylock often appears a deep sugarplum purple during winter sunsets and sunrises. You can take in the beauty of this mountain without climbing to the summit.
10. West Tisbury
The charming homes and galleries of West Tisbury look positively enchanting after a dusting of snow. The Field Gallery, pictured here, was built entirely by friends, passersby, summer house guests, and curious day trippers who volunteered their time.
11. Jiminy Peak
This mountain is home to the largest ski and snowboard resort in southern New England, and is a wonderful place to take in the full majesty of the season.
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