Massachusetts

explore like never before

Get Custom Travel guides packed with local tips
Nature|Waterfalls

You’ll Fall In Love With The Stunning Waterfall Hiding Along This Breathtaking Massachusetts Trail

Published Jun 4, 2024

Written by 

Kim Falchek

What could be better than a beautiful hike on a peaceful trail? How about a beautiful hike to a stunning waterfall? Did you know that there are dozens of amazing waterfalls hiding throughout Massachusetts? From Race Brook Falls in Sheffield (one of my personal favorites) to Beaver Brook Falls in Belmont, the beauty of these natural wonders is simply breathtaking. March Cataract Falls near New Ashford is another Massachusetts cascade that can be found along a scenic local trail. I am definitely adding this pretty cascade to my waterfall-chasing bucket list!

March Cataract Falls is located within the scenic Mt. Greylock State Reservation. This gorgeous reservation is considered to be one of Massachusetts' premier state parks.

alt
Nicole Kellogg/AllTrails

The March Cataract Falls Trail will take you right to the waterfall. This 2.2-mile out-and-back trail is a peaceful hike that can usually be completed in a little over an hour.

advertisement
alt
Dave Scarmozzino/AllTrails

The hike is considered to be of moderate difficulty; however, it does get slippery and more challenging when the trail gets wet and muddy. Please be aware that the end of the trail is also steep.

alt
Matthew Senn/AllTrails

Although March Cataract Falls isn’t the biggest waterfall in the state, it is certainly a sight to see. The intensity of the flow varies depending on the season and amount of rainfall. In general, the waterfall is most spectacular from spring until early autumn.

alt
Nicole Kellogg/AllTrails

However, it is also pretty spectacular to witness when it freezes in the wintertime!

alt
Duncan Honig/AllTrails

While you are at Mt. Greylock State Reservation, be sure to take this scenic drive along the Mount Greylock Scenic Byway. The 16-mile journey to the summit is absolutely stunning!

alt
Kim Carpenter/flickr

Have you hiked March Cataract Falls? How did it compare to other local waterfall hikes? To find even more information and download a March Cataract Falls Trail map, get the AllTrails+ app. Find even more majestic wonders in our Ultimate Guide to Chasing Waterfalls in Massachusetts.

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