Best Waterfalls in Massachusetts: 15 Local Favorites & Hidden Gems
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Melissa Mahoney
Author
The Bay State is home to many natural wonders plus pristine beaches along the Atlantic and its bays. Then, of course, there are the mountains, numerous hiking trails, and overlooks to view our stunning landscapes. While I grew up next door in Rhode Island, I consider Massachusetts my second home, and I love exploring this beautiful state. There’s so much to see here, and that includes waterfalls! While cascades aren’t the first natural attractions to cross one’s mind at the mere mention of Massachusetts, there are quite a few lovely waterfalls within the state’s borders. If you’re someone who enjoys chasing waterfalls, here are some of the best waterfalls in Massachusetts:
Tallest Waterfalls In Massachusetts
The tallest waterfall in Massachusetts is a mere 60 feet in a single drop. While that’s impressive to us Bay Staters, it may not be to someone from, say, Hawaii or California. But our tallest cascade along with a few other falls are still stunning sights to see. Ready to chase the tallest waterfalls in the state? Let’s go!
1. Bash Bish Falls
Bash Bish Falls, Mt Washington, MA 01258, USA
Make your way to Bash Bish Falls State Park in the Berkshires of Western Massachusetts where you'll find the tallest waterfall in Massachusetts that's a single drop. Welcome to the magical Bash Bish Falls! The twin cascades that make up this waterfall are approximately 60 feet tall at its final drop. The water flows around a large rock that gives the waterfall its double cascade. As it's located near the Massachusetts/New York border, it can be accessed from either state.
2. Race Brook Falls
Race Brook Falls, Sheffield, MA 01257, USA
To get to the cascade that is Race Brook Falls, you must take a hiking trail that can be rather rocky in areas and slippery after it rains. It's imperative you wear hiking boots! That being said, it'll be well worth your effort to see this waterfall that has an overall height of 67 feet, and a 30-foot drop at its tallest point. For trail information, visit AllTrails.
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3. Tannery Falls
Tannery Falls, Savoy, MA 01256, USA
The 80-foot Tannery Falls may be one of the most gorgeous hidden waterfalls in Massachusetts. Located in the remote Savoy Mountain State Forest, a hike, of course, is the way to find it. Take the 5.1-mile moderate Tannery Falls Trail which may be muddy in the spring or after it rains. Plan accordingly! Enjoy the trek to Tannery Falls as it's quite scenic. And there's a bonus waterfall (Parker Brook Falls) you'll get to see as well.
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4. Campbell Falls
Campbell Falls, New Marlborough, MA 01259, USA
Campbell Falls is a 50-foot cascade found on the Massachusetts side of Campbell Falls State Park on the Massachusetts/Connecticut border. This is a lovely waterfall that flows through a gorge before falling into a small pool below.
Best Waterfall Hikes In Massachusetts
If you enjoy a good hike with a waterfall as the ultimate destination, the following trails are for you. So, don your hiking boots, pack a pair of water shoes (just in case), and head out on. one of the best waterfall hikes in Massachusetts.
5. Wahconah Falls
Wahconah Falls, Windsor, MA 01270, USA
Located in the Berkshire Mountains of Western Massachusetts, Wahconah Falls is one of the most beguiling Massachusetts waterfalls. You'll want to spend as much time taking it all in. A short hike of less than a mile will get you to the 40-foot Wahconah Falls and I am certain you'll be mesmerized by the blue pool of water the falls cascade into.
6. Royalston Falls
Royalston Falls, Royalston, MA 01368, USA
The 45-foot Royalston Falls can be accessed via a short hike along Falls Brook and a deep gorge. Hikers say that the trail can be quite muddy so make sure you're wearing the appropriate footwear. Needless to say, it can be a challenge to Royalston Falls but it's so worth it!
7. Doane's Falls
Doane's Falls, Royalston, MA 01331, USA
Another Royalston cascade, Doane's Falls is one of the best-known New England waterfalls. To see Doane's Falls, you will have to take a short trail that runs alongside Lawrence Brook. You'll probably hear the falls before you see them! As picturesque as can be, Doane's Falls starts beneath a stone bridge and cascades into the waters below that eventually empty into Tully Lake. You'll want to have your cell phone fully charged in order to fill your camera roll with photos and videos here.
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8. Goldmine Brook Falls
Goldmine Brook, Massachusetts, USA
The enchanting Goldmine Brook Falls looks more like it belongs in a fairytale than something you see in real life. But it exists, and for that we are happy. Yet, not many people know about this incredible waterfall with a 45-foot drop. A short and sweet hike of 0.1 miles will get you down to this waterfall where you can marvel at its. beauty.
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9. Umpachene Falls
Umpachene Falls, New Marlborough, MA 01259, USA
At just 0.3 miles, the Umpachene Falls Trail is an easy hike -- easy enough to bring kids! Located in a town park where the Umpachene River meets and flows into the Konkapot River, it's worthwhile to see the scenery here.
Accessible Waterfalls In Massachusetts (No Hiking Required)
Sometimes we just want to see a waterfall and not necessarily hike to one. And for those who have mobility issues, there are a few accessible waterfalls in the state. So, if you’re looking for “no-hike waterfalls near me,” take a look at the following:
10. Pawtucket Falls
Pawtucket Falls, Lowell, MA 01854, USA
Located along the Merrimack River, Pawtucket Falls has a drop that measures 32 feet. It was created by the historic Pawtucket Dam between 1847 and 1875. If you want to see this impressive waterfall, it requires no hiking!
11. Slatestone Brook Falls
Falls Road, Sunderland, MA, USA
Slatestone Brook Falls is the ultimate roadside attraction. Set on private property, you can view it from the road -- no need to trespass! This waterfall cascades an impressive 40 feet, and believe me, you'll want to take plenty of pictures!
12. Moody Street Dam
Moody Street, Moody St, Waltham, MA, USA
While Moody Street Dam on the Charles River is man-made, it's still quite beautiful. You can see the waterfall from the Moody Street Bridge from the surrounding areas.
13. Chicopee Falls
Chicopee Falls, Chicopee, MA 01020, USA
Flowing over a masonry stone dam in Chicopee, the Chicopee River (a tributary of the Connecticut River) creates Chicopee Falls. You'll find it right along Bridge Street, or Route 33. This is one easily accessible waterfall in Massachusetts!
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Best Waterfalls near Boston
Let’s face it — Boston is an awesome city! I still love visiting the city after all these years. But for those of you who live in and around Boston, you may want to escape it and go chase down a waterfall located not too far away. Here are some of the best waterfalls near Boston:
14. Beaver Brook Falls
Beaver Brook Reservation, 66 Mill St, Belmont, MA 02478, USA
Beaver Brook Falls is quite easy to access and it yet it seems to be hiding in plain site. You'll discover this gorgeous waterfall in the 59-acre Beaver Brook Reservation. While there are plenty of ways to enjoy the park like fishing, hiking, and biking, viewing this waterfall should be at the top of your list when you come here!
15. Trap Falls
Trap Falls, 599 Main St, West Townsend, MA 01474, USA
Located just over an hour northwest of Boston in the town of West Townsend close to the New Hampshire border, Trap Falls is a scenic escape from the city. It's also not too far away from the road in Willard Brook State Forest if you're looking for a short but sweet hike. You'll be absolutely smitten by Trap Falls and the beauty that. surrounds it!
Are you ready to chase some of the best waterfalls in Massachusetts? Before you hit the road in search of cascades around the state, take a look at our Ultimate Road Trip Packing List as well as our Ultimate Hiking Packing List for all you need in the car and on a waterfall hike!
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