The history of this state didn’t start with the Mayflower. Long before colonists arrived from Europe, native peoples lived in what we now consider Massachusetts. Even before that, ancient woodlands spread their branches far and wide over the land. Part of this ancient forest still survives today.

Mount Everett State Reservation is a leafy kingdom of old growth trees and tremendous natural beauty. Spread between the towns of Mount Washington and Sheffield, this forest’s centerpiece is majestic Mount Everett.
AllTrails/Doreen O'Rourke
The reservation has about 530 acres of old-growth forest, mostly on the eastern slope of the mountain. That means that the trees here are many hundreds of years old.
Alltrails/Tom Garrahan
The trails that wind around the mountain take you to all the prettiest parts of the reservation — like Race Book Falls.
AllTrails/Sarah L Hamby
This stunning waterfall has three tiers, though most people don’t realize the upper two tiers exist due to the steepness of the trails to reach them.
AllTrails/Doreen O'Rourke

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You can also find other smaller cascades throughout the forest. Following the sound of rushing water usually pays off with the sight of a lovely waterfall.
AllTrails/Doreen O'Rourke
The woods themselves have an almost mystical beauty. Early morning fog, sparkling dew, and picturesque trees like American beech, sweet and yellow birch, and eastern white pine make you feel like you’re wandering through a fairytale.
AllTrails/ Varnana Beuria
Trails here range from easy to challenging. Casual hikers should try out the Elbow trail, Guilder Pond Trail, and the Mount Everett trail.
AllTrails/Alicia Amaral
Part of the Appalachian Trail runs through the reservation, so feel free to continue your journey north or just enjoy the local scenery.
AllTrails/Alicia Amaral
After all, you can’t beat views like these.
AllTrails/Doreen O'Rourke

You can find more information about exploring Mount Everett State Reservation here. Admission is free and dogs are permitted on leash. For more of the best hiking trails in Massachusetts, check out this list of our favorites.

If you love exploring this state’s natural wonders, be sure to join our Massachusetts Nature Lovers Facebook group for more inspiration and your chance to have a photo featured!

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