1. World’s End, Hingham
World's End in Hingham is located between the Weir River and Hingham Harbor. It's a 251-acre conservation space that will absolutely stun you with its beauty and variety of landscapes you can find here. You can explore grassy meadows, rolling hills, winding dirt paths, rocky coastline and even tidal marshes.
2. Doanes Falls, Royalston
Also known as Royalston Falls, these gorgeous cascades are only a one-mile hike from the road and located in a hidden grove. The water tumbles almost 50 feet into a clear pool over a series of rocky ledges. When you're done admiring the falls, explore the surrounding trails on foot, mountain bike, horseback or skis.
3. Purgatory Chasm, Sutton
This place may have an ominous-sounding name, but don't let that deter you from exploring one of the most unique and dramatic landscapes in the state. Purgatory Chasm is a quarter-mile of jagged granite that is unlike anything you've seen before. You can take different trails to different rock formations or just scramble up the boulders that strike your fancy. Sturdy shoes are a must at this destination.
4. Natural Bridge State Park, North Adams
This unique marvel is the only one of its kind in North America. Head to Natural Bridge State Park to check out the only naturally formed white marble arch on the continent, as well as a massive white marble dam complete with waterfall and a series of above-ground caves.
5. The Bridge of Flowers, Shelburne Falls
This magnificent blooming bridge was once a town street railway. It was transformed into a stunning bridge garden in the 1920s, and has been enchanting visitors to Shelburne Falls ever since.
Learn more about it here.
6. Horseneck Beach State Reservation, Westport
Horseneck Beach State Reservation is one of the most popular oceanside campgrounds in New England. With its rugged rocks, soft sand and sweeping sea views, there's plenty to love about spending an afternoon or an entire weekend exploring the beautiful beach and walking trails of this reservation.
Learn more here.
7. Walden Pond, Concord
Walden Pond is perhaps the best known pond in the state for its association with Henry David Thoreau and its gorgeous natural beauty. Though it can get a bit crowded in the warmer months, this swimming hole is also great place to wander and relax in the autumn and winter. There are plenty of walking trails to explore and green groves to get lost in.
8. Great Brook Farm State Park, Carlisle
Great Brook Farm State Park is an underappreciated gem that offers over 1,000 acres of splendid forest and waterfront to explore. There's a real working farm on the park that's been operating for generations, as well as a seasonal ice cream stand.
9. Mount Greylock State Reservation
Mount Greylock is the highest peak in Massachusetts and one of the most magical in New England. Besides its sweeping panoramic views of the Berkshire landscape and many winding trails, the mountain is home to fields of flowers, grassy meadows, and enchanting waterfalls. The Massachusetts Veterans War Memorial Tower is located at the mountain's peak and is a stunning monument to the Bay State women and men who have served in the military.
10. Bash Bish Falls, Mount Washington
As Massachusetts' tallest waterfall, Bash Bish Falls definitely deserves a spot on this list. Though you can't swim at this cascade for safety reasons, it's the perfect place to set up a picnic or take some truly epic photos.
11. Sages Ravine, Sheffield
Sages Ravine in Sheffield is a great place to get lost in nature. This spectacular woodland area is filled with stony ledges and a valley of waterfalls. It only takes about 20 minutes of hiking to reach the ravine, so even novice outdoorspeople can enjoy its beauty.
12 Colby Farm Sunflower Fields, Newbury
This two-acre sunflower paradise is located at Colby Farm in Newbury. The public is welcome to come and enjoy the dazzling spectacle of blooms and pick up fresh veggies, milk, eggs and cider doughnuts at the farm shop. Please note that the sunflower fields are in bloom during the month of September. Call ahead to make sure you're not disappointed.
Learn more here.
A visit to even one of these gorgeous spots is sure to enchant you. If you’re looking to do even more exploring, check out our ultimate bucket list for anyone in Massachusetts who loves the outdoors.
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