Bash Bish Falls State Park is located in the southwestern part of Massachusetts, near the tri-state border of New York, Connecticut, and Massachusetts. What makes it especially interesting is that it connects directly with Taconic State Park in New York, and both parks share the same waterfall, Bash Bish Falls. There are trails from both the Massachusetts and New York parking areas that lead to the waterfall. The water is extremely clear, with a slightly bluish tone that makes the scenery feel very clean and refreshing. Along the trail, there are also signs marking the Massachusetts–New York state border. I’m not sure about the parking situation on the New York side, but the Massachusetts parking lot is free. From there, you can simply follow the trail downhill to reach the falls. However, the waterfall is for viewing only. You cannot go close to it, and swimming is not allowed. Bash Bish Falls State Park is a great weekend getaway near New York. It is located on the border of upstate New York and Massachusetts, about a little over 2 hours’ drive from New York City, at Falls Rd, Mt Washington, MA 01258. The park is a beautiful forest area with waterfalls, streams, and hiking trails. Activities in the surrounding area include swimming, fishing, hiking, and hunting. On this trip, we went for a BBQ. We brought our own grill, charcoal, food, and drinks. After parking, we walked deeper into the park. Along the way, there were streams and many people swimming. Everyone was respectful and kept a good distance from each other. After about 20 minutes of walking, we reached the waterfall, which was very impressive. Some people were even jumping into the water from the rocks. The whole area is shaded, so it is not too hot even in warm weather. However, the trail is quite rough, so comfortable walking shoes are necessary, and it is also a good idea to bring water-friendly shoes or sandals. The air feels extremely fresh, almost like a natural oxygen bar. Occasionally escaping the city and spending time in nature feels very refreshing. There are two parking lots in the park. It is better to park at the first one you see, because the trail from there to the waterfall is flatter. The deeper parking lot has more elevation change and is harder to walk from.
Bash Bish Falls
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Bash Bish Falls
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Bash Bish Falls famous?
Bash Bish Falls is Massachusetts' highest single-drop waterfall and the state's most photographed waterfall. The falls are steeped in Native American legend about a Mohican woman named Bash Bish, and the dramatic twin cascades plunging into a crystal-clear pool make it an iconic Berkshires destination.
Can you swim at Bash Bish Falls?
No — swimming is prohibited at Bash Bish Falls due to dangerous conditions and past fatalities. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Bash Bish Falls?
Dogs allowed on-leash on trails at Bash Bish Falls State Park. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Bash Bish Falls free? Do you need a permit?
Free — no entry fee or permit required to visit Bash Bish Falls State Park. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Bash Bish Falls?
Parking available at two locations: Massachusetts side parking area (smaller lot, shorter walk) and New York side parking area (larger lot, easier trail). Parking is free. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Bash Bish Falls?
About 0.8 km / 0.5 mi one-way from the Massachusetts parking area, or about 1.2 km / 0.75 mi one-way from the New York side. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Bash Bish Falls hike difficulty
Easy to Moderate — relatively short trail with some rocky sections and elevation change, steeper from Massachusetts side, gentler from New York side. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Bash Bish Falls?
Spring (April–June) for peak water flow from snowmelt and spring rains, creating the most dramatic cascade. Fall (September–October) offers beautiful foliage. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Bash Bish Falls
From the Massachusetts parking area, take the steep trail downhill through the forest to the base of the falls (steeper but shorter). From the New York side (Taconic State Park), follow the wider, more gradual trail along Bash Bish Brook upstream to the falls. Both trails converge at the viewing area at the base of the waterfall. Stay behind barriers and on designated trails.
Bash Bish Falls official website
Attractions near Bash Bish Falls
- •Mount Washington State Forest — surrounding forest with hiking trails and scenic views
- •Taconic State Park (NY) — adjacent park with camping, trails, and Copake Falls
- •Alander Mountain Trail — challenging hike to summit with panoramic Berkshire views
- •Great Barrington, MA — charming town 20 minutes away with dining and shopping
- •Bash Bish Gorge Trail — scenic trail following Bash Bish Brook through the gorge
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
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