July 20, 2019 Sunny

Bash Bish Falls in the southwest part of the state is a waterfall with about 200 feet of cascades that end in an 80 foot waterfall which splits into two streams of water at a large boulder. It can be accessed by a relatively flat 1.5 mile roundtrip hike from just over the New York state border, or from a somewhat steeper 1 mile roundtrip trail from the Mass side. We decided to do the latter hike, of course, in keeping with our theme of visiting Mass state parks.
The trail is well-marked and maintained, and begins to descend steeply from the parking lot.

It has a few interesting features like this bridge as it twists and turns downward.

The boys enjoyed racing ahead of us. Eventually you reach a flat area with railings and a great view of the falls.

From here, you can go down some stairs to the falls and the pool below.

The day we visited was really hot and, although it was 6 o’clock, there was still a good crowd of swimmers in the pool under the falls (despite the “No Swimming” signs).

But I don’t blame them. The water was really cool and refreshing, and continues down a series of time-worn channels where other groups relaxed. The very first pool was lovely and calm. A family rested on a sandy bank as their young girl played in the water.

Just below this was a small drop with a swirling pool of water.

After enjoying the sights and sounds for a while, we started our climb back, stopping for one last view of the falls.

Bash Bish Falls is a real gem and we highly recommend visiting if you’re in the area.
Beautiful and unexpected, a real gem for a just a little effort. 
A short hike down. The waterfall and swimming hole were both stunning. 
Awesome waterfall and parking lot.
The waterfall was cool. 
For more information: Bash Bish Falls State Park official site