Day Trips from Gloucester
← All Gloucester day tripsDay Trips from Gloucester: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Gloucester, MA. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
9 waterfalls near Gloucester
Tannery Falls
Savoy, MA 01256
Just 2 hrs 55 min from Gloucester, 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.
Lower Falls
Albany, NH 03818
Just 2 hrs 24 min from Gloucester, 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.
Rocky Gorge Scenic Area
Albany, NH 03818
Just 2 hrs 27 min from Gloucester, 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.
Blackstone Gorge
Blackstone, MA 01504
Just 1 hr 34 min from Gloucester, rated 4.7 stars by 965 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 30 min from Gloucester, 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.
Diana's Baths
NH 03812, USA
Just 2 hrs 30 min from Gloucester, rated 4.7 stars by 3,850 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 24 min from Gloucester, 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.
Wahconah Falls State Park
Dalton, MA 01226
Just 2 hrs 58 min from Gloucester, 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.
Chesterfield Gorge State Wayside (park and ride)
Spofford, NH 03462
Just 2 hrs 13 min from Gloucester, 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 Gloucester
What are the best waterfalls near Gloucester, MA?
The best waterfalls near Gloucester 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 Gloucester?
Some waterfalls near Gloucester 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 Gloucester?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Gloucester 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 Gloucester?
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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