A Short But Beautiful Hike, Cascade Falls Loop Trail Leads To A Little-Known Waterfall In Massachusetts
By Melissa Mahoney|Published December 21, 2021
×
Melissa Mahoney
Author
I'm an east coast girl living in a west coast world. I grew up in New England before moving to SoCal for several years. I then lived in NYC or a year before moving to AZ in 2009. I worked in the entertainment industry for many years of my adult life and have a deep love for photography, writing, and traveling around the U.S. as well as to far-flung locations around the world. Travel is my life and writing about it is a dream!
Worcester may be a large city in central Massachusetts but at least it has places to escape to nature. There is even a short and sweet trail that leads to a waterfall, something you may be surprised to see in a city. If you don’t have a lot of time but want to get some fresh air, a bit of exercise, and take in some gorgeous scenery, this waterfall hike in Massachusetts is for you!
The Cascades is 157 acres of woodlands and meadow with a pond, streams, vernal pools in the spring, and a cascading waterfall.
There are several hiking trails to explore this picturesque property located within the Worcester city limits. This urban park is a perfect escape into nature.
The 1.4-mile Cascade Falls Loop Trail is a moderate loop trail that is rated as moderate. It is mostly flat with a few steep areas and an overall elevation gain of 187 feet.
Once you see Cascading Waters, you'll be impressed by this 60-foot waterfall found along the trail. However, if you are unable to hike, it is visible from the bridge on Cataract Street.
While you can take a hike through this preserve any time of year, it's perhaps best in the spring when the wildflowers are in bloom along the trail. The waterfall should also be at its fullest in the spring.
Are you ready for a waterfall hike in Massachusetts? If you’ve been on this trail before, tell us about the experience in the comments. To learn more about the Cascade Falls Loop Trail, visit AllTrails. You can also visit the Greater Worcester Land Trust website for more information on The Cascades.