Massachusetts is an amazing place to be a nature-lover. We have beautiful beaches, rolling hills and majestic mountains. Plus, they’re all within a day’s drive of each other! If you’re itching to explore a bit of the Bay State’s natural beauty, this is the list for you. Here are the must-see natural wonders and best nature activities in the state.
1. Colby Farm Sunflower Fields, Newbury
This may be the ultimate spring day trip! Colby Farm's neverending sunflower field is open to the public and completely enchanting. You can wander through two acres of gorgeous sunflowers and as many showstopping photographs as you please. Don't forget to pick up some fresh veggies and fruits at the farm!
2. Ramblewild, Lanesborough
Ramblewild’s Tree-to-Tree Adventure Park in Lanesborough is a great way to experience the outdoors and take in an unforgettable bird's-eye view of the forest. Visitors are securely harnessed and allowed to explore the aerial ropes course and beautiful forest canopy bridge with the help of experienced guides. It's super fun and a totally unique experience.
3. Davis Farm Mega Maze, Sterling
This is a great option for people who want to spend some time in nature, but have friends who aren't really up to hiking up a mountain. The Davis Farm Mega Maze was called the best corn maze in America by CNN, and it's an amazing seasonal activity for all. There are over three miles of twists and turns in this huge maze, with plenty of cool stuff to see inside. You can even grab a bite in one of the in-maze food shops!
4. Metacomet-Monadnock Trail
This hike isn't for the faint of heart, but it will definitely leave you feeling exhilarated. Spanning 148 miles, this stunning footpath winds through Hamden, Hampshire, Franklin and Worcester counties. If you decide to tackle the whole trail, you're in for a tour of the natural wonders of Massachusetts that you'll never forget.
5. The Cape Cod National Seashore
If you're at all a fan of the beach, you have to make the Cape Cod National Seashore one of your summer destinations. Relax on vast expanses of beautiful shoreline or explore exquisite forests and beautiful marshes. The hiking trails here are amongst the most scenic in the state, so bring along a big bag of trail mix.
6. Mount Greylock State Reservation, Stony Ledge Route
The Stony Ledge route is a fantastic hiking trail on Mount Greylock. It's perfect for beginners and is about 3.7 miles round trip. There's so much beauty packed into those miles that you might find yourself taking the journey slowly just to soak in the splendor. At the end of the hike, the spectacular vista from Stony Ledge will open up in front of you.
7. Thunderbolt Mountain Coaster, Charlemont
Do you love the outdoors but also fancy a bit of a thrill? This spot is the perfect balance of both. Hop on the Thunderbolt Mountain Coaster at Berkshire East Mountain Resort in Charlemont and pilot one of the unique driver-controlled cars through the lush forest. You'll get to experience the beauty of the mountainside in a totally unique way.
8. Madaket Beach, Nantucket
This gorgeous beach on the southwest point of Nantucket Island is home to one of the best sunsets in New England. The orientation of the beach means that it's the perfect place to watch the last light of day dip below the waves in a spectacular show of golds, pinks, and purples.
9. Deerfield Lazy River
Cruise through the beautiful scenery of the Berkshires on this lazy river ride in Deerfield. With a little help from Deerfield River Portage, you can be on a tube and relaxing on the water with minimal effort on your part. They supply the equipment and even transport you to and from the river. This is definitely a great activity for families or friends who love the outdoors.
10. Chapel Brook Falls Waterslide, Ashfield
Cool off and make some great summer memories at this natural waterslide in Ashfield. Chapel Brook Falls offers a smooth stone surface that is perfect for slipping and sliding into the clear natural pool below. Suitable for even smaller children, there's no reason not to pack a picnic lunch and check this spot out.
11. Bash Bish Falls, Mount Washington
It wouldn't be a proper outdoor bucket list without this incredible spot. Bash Bish Falls is the highest waterfall in the state and a true natural wonder. Though you can't swim here for safety reasons, tackling the easy hike to the falls and soaking up the view is more than worth your time.
12. Sages Ravine, Sheffield
This gorgeous area of woodland is packed with lovely foliage, dramatic rocks and a stunning valley of waterfalls. You'll be in awe of the beautiful natural scenery and happy that it only took about 20 to 30 minutes to reach the ravine. Perfect for a quick weekend outdoor excursion!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.