Massachusetts

explore like never before

Get Custom Travel guides packed with local tips
Nature|Waterfalls

This Bewitching Waterfall In Massachusetts Is Hidden Just Out Of Sight

Discover Trap Falls in Willard Brook State Forest for a beautiful, easily accessible nature experience.

Published Sep 11, 2018

Written by 

Sophia

There are so many magical places to discover in the wilds of Massachusetts. However, sometimes you just don’t feel like setting aside an entire day to trek out into the woods to find them. When you just want to experience beautiful bit of nature without the hours of hiking, head to this stunning waterfall tucked just out of sight.

alt
Facebook/Frank J Kautz II‎

Trap Falls in Ashby is an enchanting waterfall that only feels like a secret. It’s hidden just a few steps into Willard Brook State Forest, but seems like it would be right at home in a fairytale woodland.

advertisement
alt
Facebook/Frank J Kautz II‎

The trail to reach the waterfall is only about 0.1 miles long. Reaching the falls involves a short walk on a flat dirt path. This path should be no trouble at all for most adults and kids, but those with mobility problems or parents with very young children might find it takes a bit longer to reach the falls.

alt
Facebook/Frank J Kautz II‎

The waterfall itself is absolutely stunning. Trap Falls is actually a series of three separate cascades that all plunge into a shallow pool at their base. The center cascade is the highest and features a picturesque, bowl-like depression. Depending on the recent weather and time of year, Trap Falls can be a rushing cascade or a gentle stream of water. The waterfall is about 12 feet in height.

alt
Facebook/Frank J Kautz II‎

Even though it only takes a few minutes to reach the falls, you should definitely plan to be at Trap Falls for a few hours. There are picnic tables and charcoal grills to use for cooking up a delicious meal in sight of the falls, and plenty of grassy spots to stretch out and relax. Kids will love visiting the waterfall and playing in the surrounding forest. Everyone who visits should bring a camera, as Trap Falls is an incredibly photogenic day trip destination.

alt
Facebook/Frank J Kautz II‎

You can find Trap Falls in the Willard Brook State Forest along Route 119 in Ashby, Mass. Click here to see the waterfall on a map and to get driving directions. For more of the best easy-to-explore waterfalls in Massachusetts, take a look at some of our favorites.

A big thanks to our Massachusetts Nature Lovers Facebook group member Frank J Kautz II‎ for contributing some of these stunning photos. Join to have your photos featured!

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

Nature|Hiking

The Stunning Top-Secret Waterfall in Massachusetts Nobody’s Ever Heard Of

Hike to Spirit Falls, a hidden gem in Massachusetts. This beautiful waterfall offers cascading waters, lush forests, and diverse trails.

Published Oct 17, 2024

Written by 

Jasmine Vieau

Tucked away in the small town of Royalston, Massachusetts, lies a hidden gem waiting to be discovered: Spirit Falls. This captivating waterfall, nestled within the Jacobs Hill preserve, invites you to unplug, explore the trails, breathe in the fresh air, and discover the magic of this natural treasure.

advertisement

Spirit Falls may not be the tallest waterfall in Massachusetts, but it's certainly a beautiful one. Water flows from Little Pond and drops 150 feet down a series of rocky ledges, creating a picturesque cascade. The falls are especially impressive in the spring (April-June) when the water flow is high.

alt
Robert deNormand/AllTrails

Reaching Spirit Falls requires a bit of an adventure. The Spirit Falls Trail is 1.5 miles long and considered moderately challenging. It's marked with white circles, but some hikers have mentioned on AllTrails that parts of the trail can be hard to follow. You'll hike through lush forests, with glimpses of diverse flora and fauna along the way. Be prepared for some uphill sections (you'll gain about 465 feet in elevation) and rocky terrain, especially as you get closer to the falls.

alt
Will Spellman/AllTrails

For a longer hike, consider taking a loop trail by connecting with the Tully Trail. This 22-mile long-distance trail, maintained by The Trustees of Reservations, offers a different perspective of the falls.

While Spirit Falls is undoubtedly the highlight, the Jacobs Hill preserve offers more to explore. Hike to "The Ledges" for breathtaking panoramic views of Tully Mountain, Mount Grace, and the Berkshire Hills. You can also check out Doane's Falls and Royalston Falls, two other stunning waterfalls within the preserve.

alt
Paul Loiselle/AllTrails

Jacobs Hill is open year-round from sunrise to sunset, and admission is free. Find directions and more information on the website of The Trustees of Reservations. The preserve is located at Route 68, Royalston, MA, 01331. Important to note: the parking area isn't plowed in winter, and don't forget to bring bug spray, as mosquitoes can be present, especially during the warmer months.

Leave the everyday behind and awaken your senses at Spirit Falls. With its cascading waters, lush forests, and diverse trails, this hidden gem is a must-visit for anyone seeking adventure and serenity in Massachusetts. So, grab your camera and get ready to discover the magic of Spirit Falls!

alt
barry fanion/AllTrails

Have you experienced the beauty of Spirit Falls or discovered other underrated spots in the area? Share your travels with us and nominate your favorite local waterfalls. Are you still looking for more hiking inspiration? Download the AllTrails+ app to find trails near you, or check out these 17 hidden waterfalls in Massachusetts that will take your breath away.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

Nature|National & State Parks

The Magnificent Scenic Wonder in Massachusetts That’s Located Only .25 Miles From the Parking Lot

Looking for an accessible activity to add to your fall bucket list? Check out the magnificent bridge and waterfall at Moore State Park in Paxton, Massachusetts!

Published Sep 4, 2024

Written by 

Kim Falchek

Fall is in the air in Massachusetts. Soon we will be hitting the annual autumn fairs, picking pecks of apples, and searching for that perfect pumpkin to carve into a scary Halloween jack-o-lantern. Autumn in New England is also a wonderful time of year to get out and spend some time in the woods. One of the prettiest places in the state to visit is a little state park in the central Massachusetts town of Paxton. I’m putting Moore State Park on my fall bucket list and highly recommend that you do so as well.

advertisement
alt
Barry McLean/Alltrails

A trip to Moore State Park is great for families. The walk is easy and great views are accessible via stroller and wheelchair. You can even bring your leashed dog along with you. The park is a beautiful spot to snap some great fall photos. 

alt
Sai Abhilash G/Alltrails

Parking is free in the state park’s lot on Sawmill Road. From here, you will find a paved path that leads you on a quarter-mile walk to a gravel trail. Although you haven’t traveled far, you will be rewarded when you set eyes on the gorgeous Enchanta Bridge set atop a beautiful cascading waterfall. With the stunning foliage framing the bridge in red, orange, and yellow hues, you will definitely feel the quintessential New England fall vibes.

alt
steve hearn/Alltrails

Step inside the restored bridge and marvel at the wooden architecture. From the scenic overlook, you can catch some great glimpses of pretty Eames Pond. The overlook is covered and has chairs where you can sit and take in the views.

Moore State Park is made up of 400 acres of land. The area was once bustling with sawmills and gristmills. If you choose to continue your hike, you will come upon a mill that has been preserved and restored. Other highlights of the park include an ancient mill foundation and even more waterfalls. There are also more trails to explore. Most are considered to be relatively easy hikes. Detailed maps of these routes can be found on the AllTrails app. If you enjoy your autumn visit, be sure to come back again in the springtime when the landscape is blanketed in colorful azaleas, mountain laurels, and rhododendrons.

Have you taken a fall trip to Moore State Park? Please tell us all about your experience. More information about visiting this small but beautiful state park can be found on the Massachusetts Moore State Park website. Find more great local autumn hikes at 9 Of The Most Beautiful Fall Destinations In Massachusetts.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

All Stories

Trip Ideas
Travel Preparation & Advice

You Can Explore Your State Like Never Before With Our Dashboard

by OnlyInYourState Staff
on Nov 6
OIYS dashboard
Nature
Hiking

This Natural Wonder in Oregon is the Definition of a Hidden Gem

by Courtnie Erickson
on Nov 6
alt
Stays
Camping

The Amazing Campground in Hawaii We Want to Visit All-Year Round

by Andrea Verschuyl
on Nov 6
A camper van light up at night beneath a starry sky.
Nature
Hiking

The Remote Destination in Missouri Where the Drive is Worth the Final View

by Alana Fravell
on Nov 6
alt
Trip Ideas
Small Towns

There’s No Place Like My Hometown of Decorah, Iowa for the Holidays

by Trent Jonas
on Nov 6
alt