Most of us enjoy a good waterfall but hiking for hours to see one is not always feasible. If you are wondering to yourself, “Where are waterfalls near me?” A trip to this stunning cascade in Massachusetts is the perfect solution. Pawtucket Falls, in Lowell, combines easy access with spectacular good looks, and it is one of the best waterfall hikes in the Massachusetts. Historians will also appreciate the history and vital importance it brought to the town as an industrialized society. Take a drive and allow the wonder and mist from this natural wonder bring some peace to your day.

Pawtucket Falls, on the Merrimack River, is one of the best waterfalls in Massachusetts. Its estimated length is 5.6 miles, with a width of 300 feet. And the fact that no hiking is required to access it, is the best part about this waterfall.
Wikimedia Commons/emw
These gorgeous waters look like something you would expect to find in the remote wilderness, but they're actually formed by the action of a dam.
The Pawtucket Dam, originally constructed in 1847 and 1875, is a rare hydraulic structure and an historic landmark.
T.H. Lawler, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
This 1896 photograph shows the churning rapids on the Merrimack River, an important fishing resource for the Pennacook Indians in pre-colonial times.
It has a granite block base with wooden flashboards on top, supported by iron pins, following the natural ledge of the Pawtucket Falls on the Merrimack River.
Flickr/Tim Button
Water is released over the falls in time of flood or high water. The waters drop about 32 feet over the course of a mile.

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One can easily view Pawtucket Falls from an adjacent bridge over the Merrimack River. This is close enough to take in the scenery, but not so close that you need to worry about getting wet.
Google/Sam Zhu
Listening to the roar of the water and seeing the spray is an inspirational experience.
Viewing the falls is free and watch for some surprising bonuses, such as this great blue heron.
Emw, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
Other wildlife to look for are shad, Atlantic salmon, and alewives thriving in the river.
The dam diverts much of the river's flow into the Northern and Pawtucket canals, which helped establish Lowell, Massachusetts as the first large-scale planned industrial city in the United States.
Wikimedia Commons/Nick Rabchenuk
At 5.6 miles in length, the Lowell Power Canal System is the largest in the United States.
After taking in the falls, more history is available at Boott Cotton Mills Museum in Lowell National Historic Park, which was once a textile mill. For more information, visit the website.
115 John St, Lowell, MA 01852, USA
Daderot at English Wikipedia, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
This complex holds mills built from the mid-1830s to the early 20th century, showcasing the early use of steam power, waterpower, and ultimately electric power. Explore the stories of the investors, the engineers, the workers, and the inventors who made Lowell successful. Lowell is one of the most vibrant cities in Massachusetts. It rose to prominence in the 1800s as a textile center, and other historic mills and canals that helped Lowell flourish are available to tour.

 

Other interesting nearby finds include the National Streetcar Museum to see original and replica cars. And don’t forget to grab a bite to eat before you head home! We recommend the historic landmark, Cobblestones of Lowell for a traditional American experience and amazing architecture, complete with amazing fish and chips and top-notch sirloin. And make sure to add a visit to Pawtucket Falls in Lowell, Massachusetts to your weekend to-do list when wondering “Where are waterfalls near me in Massachusetts?” The best time to visit the falls is during the spring thaw or after a series of summer rainstorms. If you visit during the hottest and driest months of the year, you may not see the falls at their full glory. Click here for a map and directions. For more of the best waterfalls in Massachusetts that don’t require any hiking to enjoy, check out our list here.

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More to Explore

Waterfalls Near Me

Carolyn Harmon | April 14, 2022

What's the most beautiful waterfall in Massachusetts?

The most beautiful waterfall in the state is Pawtucket Falls, located on the Merrimack River. These gorgeous waters look like something you would expect to find in the remote wilderness, but they're actually formed by the action of a dam. Its estimated length is 5.6 miles, with a width of 300 feet. And the fact that no hiking is required to access it, is the best part about this waterfall. 

What are the best waterfall hikes in Massachusetts?

The best waterfall hikes in Massachusetts are Doane’s Falls in Royalston, which is a series five waterfalls along a 0.2-mile section of Lawrence Brook, a tributary of the Millers River. Another beauty is Sage's Ravine in Mount Washington, a 3.8-mile loop trail near South Egremont. This moderately challenging hike is perfect for camping and running. And don't forget Wahconah Falls in Dalton, a 0.9-mile out-and-back trail near Windsor. It is an easy route, great for mountain biking and walking.

What other waterfalls in Massachusetts are easily accessible?

Bear's Den Falls in New Salem offers both natural elegance and history, as it is a quick walk to a picturesque waterfall offering a local legend concerning 17th-century great chief Metacomet. Head out on this 0.7-mile out-and-back trail near New Salem. And a great view of Chicopee Falls can be found from Bridge Street in Chicopee. The falls were artificially created by a dam, which is surrounded by greenery. 

 

 

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Pawtucket Falls, Lowell, MA 01854, USA
Cobblestones of Lowell, 91 Dutton St, Lowell, MA 01852, USA