There’s something peaceful about the sound of rushing water, whether you find it at along the river or at the base of a cascading waterfall. And while Boston is known for many things, being a waterfall hot spot isn’t one of them. So we’ve searched beyond the city to find waterfalls near Boston families can enjoy right now. Each of our picks is less that two hours away (some are super close!) and will give you a chance to see beautiful sights and hike a little too. Here’s where to find eight wonderful waterfalls near Boston.
Cascade Falls | Melrose, MA
When it comes to waterfalls near Boston, it doesn’t get closer than the Cascade Falls, located in the Middlesex Fells Reservation. Best visited after a heavy rainfall, it’s one of many features of this expansive outdoor space. Plan a family hike, bike or birding expedition when you visit this spring and maybe a trip to Stone Zoo to see the Supersized Creatures when you’re done? There’s definitely enough to do here to spend the whole day.
Distance from Boston: 20 minutes
Newton Upper Falls | Newton, MA
A dam along the Charles River creates this peaceful little waterfall located in the 23-acre Hemlock Gorge Reservation, just west of Boston. Bring the kids to explore the area on a sunny day and they won’t be disappointed. Especially when they find Echo Bridge. Test your lung power at the platform under the bridge to really wow your budding scientists.
Distance from Boston: 30 minutes
South Natick Dam Falls | Natick, MA
Another sweet waterfall along the Charles River, the South Natick Dam Falls sits on the site of a former grist mill. Enjoy its soothing sounds from a nearby bench or the viewing platform.
Distance from Boston: 30 minutes
Falls at Old Slater Mill | Pawtucket, RI
You’ll find this Boston-area waterfall along the Blackstone River, at the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution in America. It’s just outside the Old Slater Mill, constructed in 1793, that’s open for tours Thursday through Sundays, now through September 11, 2022. It’s one of two historic tours you can take when you visit. Definitely a day trip worthy destination.
Distance from Boston: 50 minutes
Find it: nps.gov/places/slater-mill
Danforth Falls | Hudson, MA
This lovely waterfall that’s part of the 80-acre Danforth Conservation Area attracts visitors from all over. Unlike some of our other picks, this one involves a short hike along a 1.2-mile loop trail to enjoy this cascading beauty. If you visit in the spring time, be sure to wear waterproof boots or shoes as the trail can sometimes be muddy. And maybe bring your fishing pole. Danforth Brook is stocked each spring.
Distance from Boston: 45 minutes
Find it: hudsonlandtrust.org
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Albion Dam Falls | Lincoln, RI
If you visit this waterfall, created by a dam along the Blackstone River in Rhode Island, bring your bikes. From the waterfall, you can easily hop on the Blackstone River Bikeway and head out in either direction. Hint: it’s a great walking trail too, and it’s super stroller friendly.
Distance from Boston: 50 minutes
Find it: exploreri.org
Doane’s Falls | Royalston, MA
You’ll find this waterfall near Boston about 90 minutes outside the city, just right for an easy weekend day trip. Hike along the half-mile trail that leads you to the plunging waterfall that has three viewing spots. Then head to nearby Coddings Meadow for a family picnic if the sun is out. Hint: Tully Lake Campground is right there, so if a summer camping trip is on your radar, this is a good place to plan it, if you can snag a spot.
Distance from Boston: 1.5 hours
Find it: thetrustees.org/place/doanes-falls
Trapp Falls | Ashby, MA
You’ll find this lovely waterfall near Boston just inside Willard Brook State Forest, and you don’t need to walk too far to enjoy it (.1 miles to be exact). Three separate falls cascade 12 feet into the pool below. After you’ve marveled at this natural wonder, plan to hike the nearby trails in Willard Brook, or even pull up a picnic table and enjoy lunch in the outdoors.
Distance from Boston: 1.5 hours
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