Massachusetts is full of incredibly beautiful natural spots, but some are a clear cut above the rest. Check out these gorgeous places across the state that will take your breath away.
1. Chesterfield Gorge, Chesterfield
This dramatic gorge is one of the most beautiful spots along the Westfield River, a federally designated Wild and Scenic River. Visit the gorge to hike, canoe or just enjoy the view.
2. Monument Mountain, Great Barrington
Monument Mountain is the perfect place to get an eyeful of the beautiful southern Berkshires and the Housatonic River Valley. Visitors flock to Squaw Peak for the awesome hiking and thrilling views.
3. The Connecticut River Valley
Home to some of the most productive farmland in the nation, this entire region is a natural wonder. It's hard not fall in love with this area, which is peppered with charming agricultural hamlets and verdant forests.
4. Mount Greylock, Adams
This majestic peak is the highest in Massachusetts and affords one of the most spectacular views in the Northeast. The striking War Memorial tower and beacon at the mountain's summit is truly moving.
5. Cochituate Lake, Cochituate
Located in Cochituate Lake State Park, this lake featured a beautiful sandy shore and plenty of sparkling, clear waters.
6. Mohawk Trail, Miller Falls/Williamstown
This trail is 65 miles of gorgeous natural wilderness and timeless Massachusetts scenery. With over 50,000 acres of protected land and some of the best foliage viewing spots in the state, we're so fortunate to have the Mohawk Trail.
7. The Cape Cod National Seashore
With forty miles of raw, pristine beaches, marshes and forests that are home to countless rare species of plants and animals, the CCNS is a national treasure. It's also a great place for a simple beach day filled with sun, sand and surf.
8. Boston Common & Public Gardens, Boston
Having such an oasis of natural beauty in the middle of our largest urban center is a true wonder. Boston Common is the nation's oldest public park, and the public gardens feel miles away from the bustle of the nearby streets.
9. Doane's Falls, Royalston
Viewing these falls does require a bit of a hike, but the payoff is more than worth it. Glacial meltwater chiseled the waterfall into this gorge, where Falls Brook spills down over 45 feet into a crystal-clear pool.
10. Boston Harbor Islands, Boston
More formally known as the Boston Harbor Island National Recreation Area, this collection of islands offers a range of environments and activities that make each island feel like a unique natural gem. World's End, Spectacle and George's Islands are some of the loveliest coastal destinations near the city.
11. Aquinnah Cliffs, Martha's Vineyard
These cliffs are a geological marvel and one of the most dramatic natural spots in the state. Explore the nearby lighthouse and stay for the sunset in order to see the multicolored cliffs glow with light.
12. Walden Pond, Concord
Walden Pond was birthplace of transcendentalism and the favorite haunt of Henry David Thoreau. Today, it's a peaceful natural refuge filled with quiet nooks and beautiful hiking trails.
13. Bash Bish Falls, Mt. Washington
The highest waterfall in Massachusetts is also one of its most magical. Its waters flow through a hemlock forest and tumble over 60 feet into a sparkling basin. Swimming isn't allowed for safety reasons, but there's no more spectacular place for a picnic than at the base of this cascade.
14. Glacial Potholes, Shelburne Falls
These curious depressions in the gneiss bedrock around the lower Deerfield river are definitely worth a visit. They're a fantastic reminder of Massachusetts' ancient roots.
15. Purgatory Chasm, Sutton
This 70-foot deep gorge in the forests around Sutton is an otherworldly landscape. Filled with dramatic drops and spectacular vantage points, the granite fells of Purgatory Chasm are an unmissable natural wonder.
Have you visited these spots? Have suggestions for others? Let us know. If you want to explore more of this state’s natural beauty, check out these 12 trails that will guarantee you plenty of amazing views.
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