6 Gorgeous Frozen Waterfalls In Massachusetts That Must Be Seen To Be Believed
You may already know that Massachusetts is filled with gorgeous waterfalls that are beautiful summer hiking destinations, but you may not have realized that these cascades are just as gorgeous in the winter. As soon as temperatures drop, many of our state’s waterfalls transform into crystalized works of art. Take a look at some of these breathtaking frozen waterfalls in Massachusetts.
If you decide to visit any of these waterfalls, please be respectful of any safety rules. Check trail opening and closing dates to ensure you can reach the falls.
For more waterfalls in Massachusetts, check out our ultimate Massachusetts waterfall road trip. And you can find more wonderful waterfall hikes on Alltrails.com.
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Waterfalls in Massachusetts
How long is the Bash Bish falls hike?
The hike to Bash Bish Falls varies in length depending on the starting point. There are two primary trails to reach the falls:
- From the Massachusetts side: This trail is about 0.5 miles one way, making it a 1-mile round trip. It's a relatively easy hike with a slight decline on the way to the falls and a slight incline on the way back.
- From the New York side: This trail is longer, around 3/4 of a mile one way, resulting in a 1.5-mile round trip. With a steeper incline, this route is more challenging than the Massachusetts trail.
Both trails lead to the spectacular Bash Bish Falls, the highest single-drop waterfall in Massachusetts. The area is popular for its scenic beauty and a great spot for photography, picnicking, and enjoying nature. Remember to check local conditions and guidelines, as the trails can be slippery, and the area around the falls can be dangerous.
Are there waterfalls near Boston?
Yes, there are several waterfalls near Boston, though they might require a bit of a drive as the immediate vicinity of the city is mostly urban and coastal. Here are a few notable ones:
- Bash Bish Falls: As mentioned earlier, Bash Bish Falls is the highest single-drop waterfall in Massachusetts. Located in the state's southwestern corner near the New York border, it's about a 2.5-hour drive from Boston.
- Doane's Falls: Located in Royalston, MA, Doane's Falls is about an hour and a half drive from Boston. These falls offer a series of cascades along Lawrence Brook, with easy trails and scenic views.
- Royalston Falls: Also in Royalston, this waterfall is part of a nature reserve and offers a serene hiking experience. It's approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Boston.
- Glendale Falls: One of the longest and most powerful waterfall runs in Massachusetts, Glendale Falls is located in Middlefield, MA, around a 2-hour drive from Boston. The falls feature a series of cascades and are especially impressive during the spring melt.
- The Falls at Tully Lake: Located near Royalston, these falls are part of a larger recreational area that includes Tully Lake. It's about 1.5 hours from Boston and offers camping, hiking, and kayaking in addition to the falls.
While these waterfalls provide a beautiful nature getaway, they are a drive from Boston. If you're looking for a day trip or a short weekend getaway, these destinations offer a refreshing break from city life.