Day Trips from Amherst
← All Amherst day tripsDay Trips from Amherst: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Amherst, MA. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
12 waterfalls near Amherst
Glendale Falls
111 Clark Wright Rd, Chester
Just 1 hr 3 min from Amherst, rated 4.8 stars by 243 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Croton Gorge Park
Croton-On-Hudson, NY 10520
Just 2 hrs 26 min from Amherst, rated 4.8 stars by 5,104 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Warren Falls
Warren, VT 05674
Just 2 hrs 46 min from Amherst, rated 4.8 stars by 880 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Doane's Falls
Royalston, MA 01368
Just 45 min from Amherst, rated 4.8 stars by 428 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
High Falls
Hudson, NY 12534
Just 1 hr 36 min from Amherst, rated 4.7 stars by 650 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Buttermilk Falls
Ludlow, VT 05149
Just 1 hr 41 min from Amherst, rated 4.7 stars by 115 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Enders State Forest
CT 06035, USA
Just 1 hr 5 min from Amherst, rated 4.7 stars by 823 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Harriman State Park
Southfields, NY 10975
Just 2 hrs 45 min from Amherst, rated 4.7 stars by 4,643 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Wahconah Falls State Park
Dalton, MA 01226
Just 1 hr 2 min from Amherst, rated 4.7 stars by 471 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Huntington Gorge
Richmond, VT 05477
Just 2 hrs 52 min from Amherst, rated 4.7 stars by 178 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Bash Bish Falls State Park
Mt Washington, MA 01258
Just 1 hr 40 min from Amherst, rated 4.6 stars by 1,070 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Chesterfield Gorge State Wayside (park and ride)
Spofford, NH 03462
Just 58 min from Amherst, rated 4.6 stars by 112 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from Amherst
What are the best waterfalls near Amherst, MA?
The best waterfalls near Amherst range from roadside cascades to backcountry falls requiring a hike. Check the cards above for top-rated options with drive times and real visitor ratings.
Are there swimmable waterfalls near Amherst?
Some waterfalls near Amherst have designated swimming areas at their base. Always check current conditions and posted rules before swimming. State park waterfalls with established trails are generally the safest options.
How hard are the hikes to waterfalls near Amherst?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Amherst are visible from parking areas or short boardwalks. Others require moderate to strenuous hikes of 2-6 miles round trip. Check individual trail descriptions before heading out.
When is the best time to see waterfalls near Amherst?
Spring (March-May) typically offers the highest water flow after snowmelt and rain. Waterfalls are beautiful year-round though. Winter ice formations are dramatic, and fall foliage framing a waterfall is hard to beat.
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