Here Are 9 Of The Most Unique Hikes You Can Possibly Take In Massachusetts
Massachusetts is full of amazing places to wander and there are plenty of great hikes that offer something truly special. Whether it’s an amazing view, waterfalls, or just impeccable natural tranquility, these spots all have that extra touch of awesome. Read on to learn more about some of the most unique and best hikes in Massachusetts we’ve profiled. Try one on your day off or tackle them all over on a long weekend!
Moore State Park is a 737-acre recreation area located in Paxton, portions of which were listed on the National Register of Historic Places as the Moore State Park Historic District in 2004. Features of the park include historical building foundations, a restored sawmill, Eames Pond, waterfalls, and mill chutes as well as abundant wildflowers. Exploring this state park is one of the best hikes in Massachusetts.
This gorgeous hike will take you to one of Massachusetts' only accessible natural ravine hiking areas. Sages Ravine is actually part of the Appalachian Trail and features plenty of beautiful woodland, dramatic rock outcroppings, and multiple stunning waterfalls.
This hike will take you about two miles down an old road to the ruins of the Eyrie House, an old hotel built in the 1860s. The ruins are picturesque and the hike is short enough that you'll have time to set up a picnic amidst the old stone walls and columns.
Mount Greylock is the highest peak in Massachusetts, but you don't have to climb all the way to the peak to take advantage of the lovely views it affords. Hiking this route to Stony Ledge will lead you past woodland waterfalls, beautiful meadows, and finally to a stunning natural overlook.
This stunning spot is the perfect place for a hike in all seasons, but it's particularly breathtaking in the winter. Located on Plum Island off the North Shore, the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden gem that affords plenty of solitude and gorgeous views. If you commit to an early morning hike, you'll be treated to some really lovely sunrise scenery. It's one of the most scenic hikes in Massachusetts.
This hike will give you goosebumps in a good way. A wander through the aptly named Witches Woods in Beverly is equal parts beauty and thrilling spookiness once you're in on the forest's chilling history. Local history has it that during the Salem Witch Trials of the 1690s, persecuted individuals fled into the woods. Some of those supposed witches were said to have remained in the dense forest, practicing their craft and wakening supernatural forces. A century later during the American Revolution, soldiers stationed in the woods reported seeing the ghosts of their fallen comrades wandering between the trees with horrified looks on their faces.
If you fancy a stroll up a hill that ends with impressive panoramic views, this is the hike for you. Make your way up Weir Hill in North Andover for a heaping helping of forest serenity and stunning mountain vistas. This is a great option for casual hikers since it rewards pretty minimal effort with maximum reward. If you're looking for easy hikes in Massachusetts, this is a wonderful option.
This is one of the most unique hiking destinations in the state. Natural Bridge State Park in North Adams features the only natural white marble arch in North America, not to mention above-ground caves that you can explore on foot. Waterfalls tumble over the marble of the park and make for a truly spectacular natural setting.
Hiking to Umpachene Falls in New Marlborough is a great summer day activity for two reasons. The hike is very gentle and easy, and you'll be rewarded for your efforts with a gorgeous waterfall swimming hole. The pool is deep enough for a good swim but not so deep that it's more dangerous than taking a dip in a swimming pool. It's one of the best easy hikes in Massachusetts.
What do you think of this list of the best hikes in Massachusetts? If you’re looking for even more amazing hikes to tackle around the Bay State, check out our list of some great hikes that are under three miles.
Address: Moore State Park, 1 Sawmill Rd, Paxton, MA 01612, USA
Address: Sages Ravine, South Egremont, MA 01258, USA
Address: Stony Ledge, Williamstown, MA 01267, USA
Address: Mount Tom State Reservation, 125 Reservation Rd, Holyoke, MA 01040, USA
Address: Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, Refuge Rd, Newbury, MA 01951, USA
Address: Beverly Commons Drive, Beverly Commons Dr, Beverly, MA 01915, USA
Address: Weir Hill, North Andover, MA 01845, USA
Address: Natural Bridge State Park, McAuley Rd, North Adams, MA 01247, USA
Address: Umpachene Falls, New Marlborough, MA 01259, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Best Hikes In Massachusetts
April 05, 2022
Melissa M.
What are some of the best places for glamping in Massachusetts?
Not everyone is made for roughing it in the woods in a tent, and that is precisely why glamping has become so popular over the years. Have you ever wanted to spend the night in a yurt? Well, you can go yurt glamping in Massachusetts at several campgrounds. More comfortable than a tent, a night in a yurt is like no other camping experience you’ve had before.
What are some of the most fascinating natural wonders in Massachusetts?
There are so many natural wonders around Massachusetts from the Brewster Tidal Flats to glacial potholes in Shelburne Falls to a natural bridge in Adams. You may want to consider taking our natural wonders road trip in Massachusetts to see several all in one go.
Are there any kid-friendly hikes in Massachusetts?
In order for a hike to be kid-friendly, a trail has to be both easy and short. Luckily there are numerous kid-friendly hikes in Massachusetts that are one mile and under. From Pine Hills in Plymouth to the Wendell State Forest Friendly Trail in Wendell, the whole family can enjoy a hiking adventure together!
Address: Moore State Park, 1 Sawmill Rd, Paxton, MA 01612, USA
Address: Sages Ravine, South Egremont, MA 01258, USA
Address: Stony Ledge, Williamstown, MA 01267, USA
Address: Mount Tom State Reservation, 125 Reservation Rd, Holyoke, MA 01040, USA
Address: Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, Refuge Rd, Newbury, MA 01951, USA
Address: Beverly Commons Drive, Beverly Commons Dr, Beverly, MA 01915, USA
Address: Weir Hill, North Andover, MA 01845, USA
Address: Natural Bridge State Park, McAuley Rd, North Adams, MA 01247, USA
Address: Umpachene Falls, New Marlborough, MA 01259, USA
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