Berkshire County has a variety of waterfalls that can take the breath away from any curious traveler willing to spend some time hiking.
Tannery Falls
Savoy, Mass
The hike to the majestic Tannery Falls is no easy feat. Bumpy terrain and steep steps lead to a peaceful bubble untouched by the outside world.
The journey to the 80-foot falls starts at Savoy Mountain State Forest and a bumpy gravel road that leads to the trailhead; a longer trail will avoid the road and bring you to the falls as well.
Roots rise above the ground, greeting the hikers as they follow the rushing cascade. Farther into the trail, the hikers will reach a fence that protects them from Ross Brook's drop-off.
The drop-off overlooks the preserved site, giving them a glimpse of what is to come if they push onward. The sound of the rushing water is amplified the closer the traveler gets and they reach the steep steps made by the Student Conservation Association in 2008.
The path down the staircase gives the visitor a wonderful view. To the right is a view of the falls, and to the left is the second largest waterfall, Parker Brook Falls.
Find a trail map here.
Wahconah Falls State Park
Dalton, Mass.
Wahconah Falls is a must-see when coming to Central Berkshire County. It is a world of its own, standing alone from other sites in the area, especially in the fall, when the leaves crunch beneath your feet and the bare trees frame a magnificent site and a watery symphony of sound.
Finding Wahconah Falls during your drive can be a bit challenging. Visitors can take North Street in Dalton to Wahconah Falls Road. Parking is on the right.
The trail goes over a small bridge and continue straight for a short time. Soon, you can hear the rushing water. The trail will open up to a picnic area that overlooks the waterfall.
Money Brook Trail
Williamstown, Mass
Although it's not one of the most well-known waterfalls in New England, this 80-foot drop will take the breath away from any onlooker, especially during late spring or early summer when the water is high. Voyagers pass through maintained trails, a wood road, two bridges, and a steep hill to get to the waterfall.
Located at the end of Hopper Road, Money Brook Trail leads into the Hopper and follows Hopper Brook. Hikers encounter a variety of plants and animals during the 2.5-mile hike to the falls. It will require passing through the gates of an old farm, through fields and crossing Money Brook twice over bridges; about 100 feet from the second bridge, hikers will follow the blue leads at the Hopper Trail cut-off.
The hike gains elevation above the brook and crosses another tributary that leads to a narrow stepper section that will then make a sharp left, taking you to the opposite side, which is a short distance from the falls.
More information on the trail and directions can be found here.