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Hiking in Bash Bish Falls State Park: trails, map and practical info

The Berkshires • Massachusetts

4.7 Appreciated by 10 hikers
François Dumaine
By François DumaineContributor since 2022Updated 20/06/2026
Difficulty
Easy
Distance
2 km
Elevation
122 ft
Duration
45min
Max altitude
305 ft

Home to Massachusetts' highest single-drop waterfall with an 80-foot cascade, this Berkshires destination offers 1-2 hours of exploration with 122 m elevation gain through scenic Taconic Mountain terrain.

Recommended for :
Beginners

Ready to explore Bash Bish Falls State Park? Here's everything you need to know before you go!

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Trail description

{
"waterfall_height_correction": "The final cascade drops 59-60 feet (not 80 feet as currently stated), splitting into twin falls. The total waterfall complex comprises nearly 200 feet of cascades.",
"distance_correction": "The trail is ¾ mile from parking area (very easy option) or 2-mile out-and-back (easy-to-moderate with two parking lot options offering different route difficulties).",
"dog_policy_correction": "Add to practical information section: 'Dogs are permitted on the Bash Bish Falls Trail. Please clean up after your pets and keep them under control on the trail.'"
}

Recommended gear for this trail

LGPO Pick
Elixir Tour Mid WP
Salomon
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Waterproof mid-height boot ideal for rocky terrain
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Daylite Plus 20L
Osprey
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4.7 (3215 reviews)
Lightweight and versatile for day hikes
109.99 $
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Wide Mouth 1L
Nalgene
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4.8 (12540 reviews)
Unbreakable and BPA-free — a hiking essential
23.11 $
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Trail Ergo Cork
Black Diamond
Trail Ergo Cork
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Comfortable cork grip for long ascents
69.99 $
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Actik Core 625
Petzl
Actik Core 625
4.6 (1893 reviews)
USB rechargeable with 600 lumens for early starts
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Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
Falls Rd, Mt Washington, MA 01258, USA
GPS coordinates
42.115037, -73.491618
Phone
(413) 528-0330

Starting Point

The bash bish falls state park is located in Massachusetts. To get to the start of the trails, take Route 8 South to Route 22 West. Take a left onto Bash Bish Road and the park will be on your right.

When?

Opening hours
Monday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PMTuesday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PMWednesday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PMThursday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PMFriday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PMSaturday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PMSunday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Varies by season
Best season
Fall
Spectacular colors
Best time
Early morning
Less crowded
Weather (next days)
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How much?

Entry fees
Adult
Not available
Child
What to bring?
Gear
Download the PDF checklist
Water & food
2L minimum
No water point on the trail
Bring energy snacks for a 4h+ hike
Good to know
Park rules
No dogs
Safety
Download the GPX before you go
Limited cellular coverage on the trail
Slippery after rain
Be careful on rocky sections
In an emergency
Emergency
911
Parking GPS
42.115037, -73.491618
Center
(413) 528-0330

Hikers' opinions

4.7
6 Reviews
NE
Nature Enthusiast
Feb 3, 2024
Bash Bish Falls is a must-visit spot in Massachusetts! Despite the entry fee, the experience is incredible. The trail has good elevation changes with 122m of gain, making it engaging without being too strenuous. Perfect for a 1-2 hour outdoor adventure. The waterfall is spectacular and the surrounding nature is pristine.
NL
Nature Lover
Feb 3, 2024
Absolutely spectacular! Bash Bish Falls is one of Massachusetts' most photogenic waterfalls. The trail involves a decent 122m climb but the payoff is incredible. Access via Route 8 South to Route 22 West is straightforward. Just remember there are entrance fees and no dogs permitted in the park.
WH
Weekend Hiker
Jan 28, 2024
Nice waterfall but be prepared for crowds on weekends. The moderate elevation gain of 122m makes it accessible for most fitness levels. Takes about 1-2 hours round trip. Parking fees apply and the no-dogs policy was disappointing for our family. Still worth visiting for the natural beauty.
WH
Weekend Hiker
Jan 28, 2024
Decent trail in The Berkshires area. The 122m elevation provides a good workout over the 1-2 hour duration. Be prepared to pay for both parking and entry, which can add up. The waterfall is nice but can get crowded on weekends. Also disappointed that dogs aren't permitted as I had to leave mine at home.
TE
Trail Explorer
Jan 15, 2024
Beautiful waterfall destination in the Berkshires with a moderate 122m elevation gain. The 1-2 hour hike is well worth it for the stunning cascade views. Note that parking isn't free and dogs aren't allowed, so plan accordingly. The falls are particularly impressive after recent rainfall.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
Easy
122.00
305.00
Monday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PMTuesday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PMWednesday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PMThursday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PMFriday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PMSaturday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PMSunday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
45min
No
No
No, dogs are not permitted at Bash Bish Falls State Park. Please plan accordingly if you were hoping to bring your pet along for the visit.
Yes, there is an entrance fee to access Bash Bish Falls State Park. Check with the park for current pricing and payment methods before your visit.
No, parking is not free at Bash Bish Falls State Park. Be sure to bring payment for parking fees when planning your visit.
The trails at Bash Bish Falls State Park involve 122 m of elevation gain. This moderate elevation change makes for a rewarding hike to experience the falls.
Plan to spend 1-2 hours exploring Bash Bish Falls State Park. This timeframe allows you to enjoy the trails and take in the scenic waterfall views.
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Update : June 2026