Switch on your inner adventurer and take a trip to these ethereal waterfalls in Massachusetts! We’ve scoped out a mix of urban waterfalls flowing freely over dams and natural Massachusetts waterfalls out west in the Berkshires. With some waterfalls where you can even enjoy a quick dip at the foot of the falls!
We’re keeping this list to Massachusetts only, but if you get out to Vermont, this waterfall is gorgeous for summer swims and autumn leaf-peeping! Word of advice—check out where the locals swim, the entire waterfall is not swimming friendly due to extra-large rocks!
Waterfalls in Greater Boston area
Most of the natural waterfalls in Massachusetts are out west, about a 2-hour drive from the city. If you’re looking for something a bit closer or accessible by public transit, these urban waterfalls are picturesque and relaxing enough to do the trick!
1. Newton Upper Falls (30 min drive)
Hop on the green line and find yourself overlooking a relaxing dam that cascades into beautiful falls! You’ll find the best viewing spot from Echo Bridge.
2. South Natick Dam (40 mins)
This long-stretched dam is adjacent to Grove Park. You can watch the waterfalls and catch a glimpse of the nearby island.
3. Waltham Moody Street Dam (25 mins)
Just a block over from the Waltham Commuter Rail stop are these stunning falls. Cross over the parallel bridge and enjoy the relaxing sounds. Don’t forget to head over to In-A-Pickle for the most massive pancakes you’ll ever eat!
4. Canton Viaduct (43 mins)
The backdrop of these falls is an 1835 brick viaduct. It adds a uniquely Gothic feel to the spot!
Best waterfalls in Massachusetts
The best waterfalls in the state fall from the rocky mountains of the Berkshires region. Make a trip out of it and stay at this perfect nature retreat! Along with your waterfall peeping, enjoy beekeeping, horseback riding, gorgeous sunsets, outdoor swims, sound baths and more!
5. Ashby Trap Falls (75 mins)
Tucked inside the peaceful Willard Brook Forest, the tall woods and smooth rocks make this an idyllic setting for a gloomy picnic.
6. Mount Washington Bash Bish Falls (2 hrs 46 min)
The most well-known and popular waterfall in the state, Bash Bish offers everything you’d want in a natural fall- a plunge pool, gorgeous views, emerald, green waters, and a stunning forest landscape. the 200-foot waterfall creates glorious pool 80-feet deep to the floor (sadly though, swimming is prohibited). It’s the tallest single drop fall in the state.
7. Ashfield Chapel Falls (2 hrs 15 min)
The rocks here create a natural slide! You can also swim, but only in the summer months as the currents become too strong outside of summer due to snow runoff.
8. Chester Goldmine Brook Falls (2 hrs 15 min)
This fall has a 45-foot drop along rocks at different tiers! There is a quite a hike to the top, but due to the greenery, there isn’t much sun here.
9. Glendale Falls at Middlefield (2 hrs 20 min)
These falls crash over giant boulders making for a stunning symphony of relaxing nature sounds. At 160-feet, it’s one of the other tallest waterfalls in Massachusetts.
10. Race Brook Falls (2hrs 46 mins)
Along with Bish Bash Falls and Glendale Falls, the 300-foot drop makes Race Brook Falls among the top 3 tallest waterfalls in Massachusetts-although it sits right on the Massachusetts New York border. The nearby hiking trails are picturesque, but the steep elevation is best for experienced hikers!
Best waterfalls in New England
If you’re looking for waterfalls set in truly magnificent mountainous peaks, a journey north to New Hampshire and Vermont is all you need. Not only great for leaf peeping and skiing, the mountains up north offer great summertime hiking complete with hidden waterfalls all throughout. Here are a few to explore:
11. Salmon Hole, Burlington, Vermont (3 hrs)
A popular swimming hole along the Green River, Salmon Hole offers deep pools perfect for a refreshing swim. It’s also a favorite spot for tubing during the summer months, providing a classic Vermont river experience.
12. Thorne Pond Conservation Area, Glen, New Hampshire (3 hrs)
Located across from Bear Peak at Attitash Mountain Resort, the area offers a series of trails along the Saco River with beautiful, hidden pools —it’s a local secret worth exploring.
13. Buttermilk Falls, Ludlow, Vermont (3 hrs 11 mins)
Whether you’re cooling off after a day at the Adventure Zone or a hike to the summit, Okemo Mountain Resort offers some fantastic spots to swim and relax. Just a short 5-minute walk from the parking area, this spot features three beautiful cascading waterfalls. The easy trail makes it a great option for families or those looking for a quick nature escape. The pools below the falls are perfect for a refreshing swim on a warm day.
14. Pikes Falls, Jamaica, Vermont (3 hrs 13 mins)
This southern Vermont gem features a mix of hiking, waterfalls, and reservoirs perfect for cooling off after your mountain adventures. A hidden gem near Mount Snow, Pikes Falls features a lovely waterfall cascading into a natural swimming hole. The short hike to the falls is well worth it for the cool waters and peaceful surroundings.
15. Bingham Falls, Stowe, Vermont (3 hrs 40 mins)
The best way to cool down after a hike up Mt. Mansfield or a ride on Stowe’s Gondola Skyride is with a refreshing dip in a nearby swimming holes. Located below a small, scenic gorge east of Mountain Road, Bingham Falls is a waterfall that pours into an emerald pool offering a classic swimming hole experience. It’s just a half-mile hike from the road.
16. Moss Glen Falls, Stowe, Vermont (3 hrs 40 mins)
A striking 100-foot drop waterfall just a few miles north of Stowe Village, find a few pools below the falls for swimming and scenic vantage points along the trail.
17. Fosters Hole, Stowe, Vermont (3 hrs 40 mins)
Located a quarter mile up along Notchbrook Road, Fosters Hole offers a peaceful spot with waterfall cascades, a beautiful pool, and plenty of shore to relax.