Day Trips from Boston
← All Boston day tripsDay Trips from Boston: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Boston, MA. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
10 waterfalls near Boston
Rocky Gorge Scenic Area
Albany, NH 03818
Just 2 hrs 32 min from Boston, rated 4.8 stars by 1,327 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Lower Falls
Albany, NH 03818
Just 2 hrs 29 min from Boston, rated 4.8 stars by 1,642 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 1 hr 33 min from Boston, 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.
Tannery Falls
Savoy, MA 01256
Just 2 hrs 34 min from Boston, rated 4.8 stars by 140 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.
Enders State Forest
CT 06035, USA
Just 2 hrs from Boston, 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.
Kent Falls State Park
Kent, CT 06757
Just 2 hrs 50 min from Boston, rated 4.7 stars by 2,136 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 2 hrs 28 min from Boston, 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.
Lower Falls Recreation Site
Conway, NH 03818
Just 2 hrs 29 min from Boston, rated 4.7 stars by 108 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Chesterfield Gorge State Wayside (park and ride)
Spofford, NH 03462
Just 2 hrs 1 min from Boston, 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.
Bash Bish Falls State Park
Mt Washington, MA 01258
Just 2 hrs 38 min from Boston, 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from Boston
What are the best waterfalls near Boston, MA?
The best waterfalls near Boston 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 Boston?
Some waterfalls near Boston 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 Boston?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Boston 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 Boston?
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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