Forget the seashore – this stunning lake in Massachusetts may just be your new favorite swimming spot. Lake Cochituate is secluded, beautiful, and just begging to be visited. Here’s what you need to know for your next lakeside beach day.
Lake Cochituate is located in Middlesex County between the towns of Natick, Wayland, and Framingham.
This stunning lake is a surprisingly great alternative to the seashore.
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It was originally used as a water reservoir for Boston, but is now a recreational spot popular with those looking to do a spot of kayaking, swimming, and boating.
Lake Cochituate is actually made up of three linked ponds.
It offers a beautiful sandy beach with a large, sloping grassy area for picnicking and play.
Non-motorized boating is welcome here, and it’s great place to launch a kayak.
It’s a lovely spot for a bit of swimming, as the water is usually warm and clear during the summer.
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Looking to stretch your legs? Follow the Snake Brook Trail for a 1.5-mile adventure through the woods and along the water.
The next time you want to hit the water, swap out the seashore for Lake Cochituate. You won’t regret it.
You can find driving directions to Lake Cochituate by clicking here. For more of the most stunning swimming and boating lakes in Massachusetts, check out some of our favorites here.
Natural wonders abound in the Bay State. From places like Chesterfield Gorge to Mount Greylock, the Cape Cod National Seashore, and more, there are some jaw-dropping places just about everywhere you look. The Brewster Tidal Flats in Massachusetts is a natural wonder you may have heard of before and absolutely one natural wonder you have to see for yourself to believe.
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The Brewster Tidal Flats extend nearly 10 miles along Cape Cod Bay from Brewster through North Eastham. You can see the flats at low tide when the water recedes over one mile into the bay.
Once the tide goes out, there's sand as far as the eye can see. Many people like to walk far out onto the flats during the low tide. I did that with my dad and children one summer and it was quite an adventure!
During low tide across the flats, you can see sandbars, clam beds, oyster farms, and tidal pools that are overflowing with life. It's an extraordinary time to be here. We all took time to see what sea creatures we could find in the tide pools.
The Brewster Tidal Flats, also called the "mud flats," cover an area of approximately 12,000 acres.
This great expanse provides a wonderful place to hike, look for seashells, find sea life, and just marvel at such a magnificent natural phenomenon. People also come here to go oystering.
The Brewster Tidal Flats also provide a breathtaking spot to watch the sunset.
While they aren't the largest tidal flats in the world, it's amazing to have the largest mudflats on the entire North American continent right here in Massachusetts. These tidal flats are among the most unique and best natural wonders in Massachusetts to see and experience.
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We could have spent hours exploring the vast sandy landscape created by these tidal flats in Massachusetts.
However, as quickly as the tide recedes, it comes back and we were left walking barefoot through the water during the sunset.
Because crabs were coming after our feet as we walked, I decided that a pair of water shoes would be necessary for next time!
Take a look at this video of the Brewster Tidal Flats in Massachusetts by Christopher Seufert:
Every time I've seen the tidal flats at low tide, my jaw drops. It's one of the most extraordinary natural wonders in Massachusetts. Have you witnessed the Brewster Tidal Flats in Massachusetts yet? It's such a fascinating natural phenomenon that happens to be the largest tidal flats in North America! To learn more about the Brewster Tidal Flats, visit the Brewster Chamber of Commerce website.
Is there anything better than throwing on a swimsuit and hitting the water on a hot and sticky day? If you want to combine cooling off with a relaxing float down a lazy river, these awesome lazy rivers in Massachusetts will deliver just what you need. With a mix of indoor and outdoor places to float, you're sure to find the perfect spot to beat the heat and make some great memories. All great options when the heat begins to climb! And not many of these options come to mind right away, so add these to your new rotation.
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1. Water Park of New England, Danvers
Looking for "river tubing near me?" Well, I suggest you head to Water Park of New England to escape to the tropics any time of year. This lazy river winds through an indoor water park that also offers thatched huts, lovely cabanas, awesome waterslides, and a cool island atmosphere. Their Adventure River winds around the park at a leisurely pace, treating visitors with a relaxing float. With over 65,000 square feet of fun rides and relaxation areas, you’ll never want to leave. Easily one of the best lazy rivers in Massachusetts you can visit any time of the year.
2. Crooked Creek, Great Wolf Lodge, Fitchburg
For river tubing near Boston, Crooked Creek at Great Wolf Lodge in Fitchburg is a fantastic indoor Massachusetts lazy river that’s perfect for a relaxing float with friends and family. The river winds around the park and features a gentle current and pristine water. Once you get your fill of the lazy river, try other awesome water rides like the Howling’ Tornado funnel thrill ride, their four-story tandem tube ride, or their family-friendly waterslide. Access to the water park is reserved for guests of the lodge and their visitors, which is all the more reason to plan a relaxing summer weekend away. If you’re looking for great tubing in Massachusetts, Great Wolf Lodge in Fitchburg has got it all dialed in!
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3. Adventure River, Six Flags New England
If you want to spend the whole day splashing around, this Massachusetts lazy river spot is a great option. Hurricane Harbor at Six Flags New England is a massive water park that features countless watery thrill rides, whirlpools, and spray zones. They also have an awesome lazy river called the Adventure River. This slow-moving water ride will send you on a refreshing tour around the park. You’ll travel over 1,000 feet while bobbing pleasantly on an inner tube. It’s suitable for all ages, and features carved stone walls and lush foliage that will make you feel like you’ve drifted into a tropical paradise. You can also splash around in the water before hopping back on your tube and sinking deep into total relaxation. Paired with a complete adventure park nearby, this lazy river has earned our vote as one of the best outdoor places for river tubing in Massachusetts. Check the Six Flags New England website to make sure the lazy river is open during your visit.
4. Deerfield Lazy River, Deerfield River
The Deerfield River is a stunning waterway that makes for a perfect place to float your cares away. Check in with Deerfield River Portage to grab a tube and hit the water. The company will even drive you to the edge of the river and meet you at the end of your float to take you right back to your car, eliminating the need for that awkward car shuffle. The real draw here is the stunning natural beauty of the river, which includes sparkling waterfalls and lush vegetation along the shoreline. Wear plenty of sunscreen, slip on some sturdy footwear, and head to Deerfield for this amazing lazy river experience. For the best riving tubing in Massachusetts, the Deerfield River is always our first choice! It’s just a great way to enjoy all the beautiful landscapes and adventures that Massachusetts has to offer.
We love these lazy rivers in Massachusetts! Are there any we’re missing? Would you add any to the list? Let us know in the comments below!
We think Massachusetts is filled with fabulous ways to escape the heat! What’s your favorite place in the state to cool off? If you haven’t heard, you need to check out this hidden waterpark that will make your summer epic.
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Need new swimwear for your lazy river tubing in Massachusetts? Take a look at the selection from our friends at REI!