Road trips are awesome, but unless you’re the kind of person who enjoys logistics, planning them can be a bit of a hassle. Luckily, we’ve done all the legwork so you’ll never have to Google “What are some natural wonders in MA?” again. If you want to experience some of the most beautiful natural wonders in MA, without the headache of planning your route, one of the best MA road trips is for you.
You can tackle this road trip in Massachusetts any way you want. Start at the beginning and visit each site, or hop on somewhere in the middle. The entire adventure takes about 12.5 hours total, but unless you love whizzing by beautiful places without stopping, you’ll want to dedicate an entire weekend to exploring some of the most beautiful places in MA.
Before heading out, check out the road trip and directions on Google Maps.
Google Maps
- Crane Beach, Ipswich
Flickr/Maria
Flickr/Ryan Harvey What better way to start an epic journey than with a day at the beach? If you’re hopping on the road up north, Crane Beach is your first stop. Nature lovers will love its population of piping plover nests, and everyone else will love the shimmering white sands and sparkling waters. This beach has clean bathrooms and showers, ample parking spaces and a well-stocked snack bar in-season. It’s one of the loveliest beaches in the state, so be sure to check out this Ipswich treasure.If you feel like spending a bit more time in the area, try trekking up to Castle Hill and exploring the magnificent Crane Estate. The beach is open year-round, 8 a.m. until sunset. For more information, check out the official website of Crane Beach. Crane Beach, Ipswich, MA, USA
- World’s End, Hingham
Flickr/Lee
Flickr/liz west Heading down into the South Shore, your next stop will be World’s End. Its dramatic name is perfectly suited to the rolling hills, sweeping views, and craggy coastline that this park has on offer. You’ll truly feel like you’ve traveled to the edge of civilization when you explore this 251-acre preserve. Though it might seem worlds apart from urban life, Boston is actually a mere 15 miles away. The park is open year-round, 8 a.m. until sunset. Check out our previous article to learn more about World’s End. World’s End, Hingham, MA 02043, USA
- Quabbin Reservoir & Overlook
Flickr/James Walsh
Flickr/Henry Zbyszynski The Quabbin Reservoir is one of New England’s best kept secrets. There isn’t a single spot in the area that doesn’t offer immense scenic beauty. You can hike, bird watch, fish, and picnic at this beautiful waterfront spot. The one thing you can’t do? Swim. The reservoir supplies drinking water to the city of Boston, so splashing around is not allowed. The observation tower near Gate 43 provides an amazing view of the entire area. Check out our previous article to learn more about The Quabbin Reservoir. Quabbin Reservoir, Massachusetts, USA
- Glacial Potholes, Shelburne Falls
Flickr/downtownstreets
TripAdvisor/Jennifer C. These glacial potholes are a geological marvel. More than 50 natural holes dot the granite landscape at the base of Salmon Falls, ranging from six inches wide to a whopping 39 feet in diameter. They were formed during the last “glacial age” by the constant whirling of water against stone. While visitors were once permitted to swim in the pools, reckless behavior resulted in the pools being closed to swimming in 2012. Still, these dramatic natural features are a wonder to behold even from afar. Check out our previous article to learn more about the Glacial Potholes. Shelburne Falls Potholes, J726+W7, Shelburne Falls, MA 01370, USA
- Natural Bridge State Park, North Adams
Tripadvisor/Treehugger009
Tripadvisor/Dave2840 This state park is a bit off the beaten path, but well worth the search. It is named for the natural stone arches of white marble that have been formed by the eroding forces of water through the area. This place features stunning views from atop the high gorge, and walking paths through the winding stone labyrinths near the marble waterfall. Learn more about Natural Bridge State Park in our previous article. Natural Bridge State Park, McAuley Rd, North Adams, MA 01247, USA
- Mount Greylock, Adams
Flickr/MOTT
Flickr/Jack Imack This is the highest peak in Massachusetts, and certainly the most altitude gain you’ll experience on this trip. For the truly adventurous, hiking up to Bascom Lodge is an unforgettable way to experience the mountain. If you’re slightly less inclined to make the 90-minute trek to the top on foot, you can drive straight to the summit. The views are spectacular, and the fresh air is bracing. Check out our previous article to learn more about Mount Greylock. Mount Greylock, Adams, MA 01220, USA
- Bash Bish Falls
Flickr/Andy Arthur
Tripadvisor/ussubforce Following on the heels of the tallest mountain in Massachusetts, this road trip will take you to the highest waterfall in the state. Bash Bish Falls tumbles over 70 feet into a crystal-clear pool at its base. Swimming is not allowed for safety reasons, but the rocks near the falls are actually the best places from which to view the falls. There is a small viewing platform above the falls, however, the climb up there is quite dangerous as the rocks tend to be slippery. Trails around the waterfall are well-marked, and the nearby 1,356-acre Mount Everett State Forest offers plenty of spots to picnic. Access to the waterfall is free. The park is open from sunrise to just after sunset. Check out our previous article to learn more about Bash Bish Falls. Bash Bish Falls, Mt Washington, MA 01258, USA
- Bartholomew’s Cobble, Sheffield
Flickr/phoca2004
Flickr/angela n. Bartholomew’s Cobble is a 100-foot-high bedrock outcropping that rises above the surrounding countryside like a lush, green tower. The reservation features one of the largest cottonwood trees in Massachusetts, and well-marked hiking trails up to the top of the twin hills. Ambitious hikers can summit the 1,000-foot high Hulbert’s Hill that offers sweeping views of the Housatonic River Valley. There are about nine miles of hiking trails total, so bring your sturdy shoes. Visit in mid-September through October to catch sight of the local hawk migration. Check out our previous article to learn more about Bartholomew’s Cobble. Bartholomew’s Cobble Reservation, 105 Weatogue Rd, Sheffield, MA 01257, USA
- Cape Cod National Seashore, Wellfleet
Flickr/Jeff
Flickr/Marcy Leigh This road trip ends the way it began: with a splash. Meander your way across Cape Cod (be sure to stop for ice cream at least twice) and wrap up your adventure at the Cape Cod National Seashore. This nature preserve is pretty huge (it runs almost all the way to the tip of Cape Cod), so you probably won’t be able to see everything in one trip. However, be sure to check out Marconi Beach. Its soft sand and dramatic dunes are the perfect backdrop for a celebratory end-of-trip picnic. Besides the beach, you should definitely take an hour or so to follow the boardwalk through the park’s Atlantic White Cedar Swamp. Check out our previous article to learn more about Cape Cod National Seashore. Cape Cod National Seashore, Wellfleet
Bonus: Aquinnah Cliffs, Aquinnah
Flickr/MOTT It wouldn’t be much of a road trip if you had to take a ferry. However, if you have time, you should definitely head over to Martha’s Vineyard to check out these multi-colored cliffs. Ancient clay deposits lend the land beautiful ribbons of crimson, gold, green and even a bit of purple. Best viewed at sunset! Check out our previous article to learn more about the Aquinnah Cliffs. Aquinnah Cliffs Overlook, 31 Aquinnah Cir, Aquinnah, MA 02535, USA
Interested in discovering more of the most beautiful places in MA? Check out this YouTube video by Vacationsgram to see some of the top places to visit in the Bay State:
Google Maps
Flickr/Maria
Flickr/Ryan Harvey
What better way to start an epic journey than with a day at the beach? If you’re hopping on the road up north, Crane Beach is your first stop. Nature lovers will love its population of piping plover nests, and everyone else will love the shimmering white sands and sparkling waters. This beach has clean bathrooms and showers, ample parking spaces and a well-stocked snack bar in-season. It’s one of the loveliest beaches in the state, so be sure to check out this Ipswich treasure.If you feel like spending a bit more time in the area, try trekking up to Castle Hill and exploring the magnificent Crane Estate. The beach is open year-round, 8 a.m. until sunset. For more information, check out the official website of Crane Beach.
Crane Beach, Ipswich, MA, USA
Flickr/Lee
Flickr/liz west
Heading down into the South Shore, your next stop will be World’s End. Its dramatic name is perfectly suited to the rolling hills, sweeping views, and craggy coastline that this park has on offer. You’ll truly feel like you’ve traveled to the edge of civilization when you explore this 251-acre preserve. Though it might seem worlds apart from urban life, Boston is actually a mere 15 miles away. The park is open year-round, 8 a.m. until sunset. Check out our previous article to learn more about World’s End.
World’s End, Hingham, MA 02043, USA
Flickr/James Walsh
Flickr/Henry Zbyszynski
The Quabbin Reservoir is one of New England’s best kept secrets. There isn’t a single spot in the area that doesn’t offer immense scenic beauty. You can hike, bird watch, fish, and picnic at this beautiful waterfront spot. The one thing you can’t do? Swim. The reservoir supplies drinking water to the city of Boston, so splashing around is not allowed. The observation tower near Gate 43 provides an amazing view of the entire area. Check out our previous article to learn more about The Quabbin Reservoir.
Quabbin Reservoir, Massachusetts, USA
Flickr/downtownstreets
TripAdvisor/Jennifer C.
These glacial potholes are a geological marvel. More than 50 natural holes dot the granite landscape at the base of Salmon Falls, ranging from six inches wide to a whopping 39 feet in diameter. They were formed during the last “glacial age” by the constant whirling of water against stone. While visitors were once permitted to swim in the pools, reckless behavior resulted in the pools being closed to swimming in 2012. Still, these dramatic natural features are a wonder to behold even from afar. Check out our previous article to learn more about the Glacial Potholes.
Shelburne Falls Potholes, J726+W7, Shelburne Falls, MA 01370, USA
Tripadvisor/Treehugger009
Tripadvisor/Dave2840
This state park is a bit off the beaten path, but well worth the search. It is named for the natural stone arches of white marble that have been formed by the eroding forces of water through the area. This place features stunning views from atop the high gorge, and walking paths through the winding stone labyrinths near the marble waterfall. Learn more about Natural Bridge State Park in our previous article.
Natural Bridge State Park, McAuley Rd, North Adams, MA 01247, USA
Flickr/MOTT
Flickr/Jack Imack
This is the highest peak in Massachusetts, and certainly the most altitude gain you’ll experience on this trip. For the truly adventurous, hiking up to Bascom Lodge is an unforgettable way to experience the mountain. If you’re slightly less inclined to make the 90-minute trek to the top on foot, you can drive straight to the summit. The views are spectacular, and the fresh air is bracing. Check out our previous article to learn more about Mount Greylock.
Mount Greylock, Adams, MA 01220, USA
Flickr/Andy Arthur
Tripadvisor/ussubforce
Following on the heels of the tallest mountain in Massachusetts, this road trip will take you to the highest waterfall in the state. Bash Bish Falls tumbles over 70 feet into a crystal-clear pool at its base. Swimming is not allowed for safety reasons, but the rocks near the falls are actually the best places from which to view the falls. There is a small viewing platform above the falls, however, the climb up there is quite dangerous as the rocks tend to be slippery. Trails around the waterfall are well-marked, and the nearby 1,356-acre Mount Everett State Forest offers plenty of spots to picnic. Access to the waterfall is free. The park is open from sunrise to just after sunset. Check out our previous article to learn more about Bash Bish Falls.
Bash Bish Falls, Mt Washington, MA 01258, USA
Flickr/phoca2004
Flickr/angela n.
Bartholomew’s Cobble is a 100-foot-high bedrock outcropping that rises above the surrounding countryside like a lush, green tower. The reservation features one of the largest cottonwood trees in Massachusetts, and well-marked hiking trails up to the top of the twin hills. Ambitious hikers can summit the 1,000-foot high Hulbert’s Hill that offers sweeping views of the Housatonic River Valley. There are about nine miles of hiking trails total, so bring your sturdy shoes. Visit in mid-September through October to catch sight of the local hawk migration. Check out our previous article to learn more about Bartholomew’s Cobble.
Bartholomew’s Cobble Reservation, 105 Weatogue Rd, Sheffield, MA 01257, USA
Flickr/Jeff
Flickr/Marcy Leigh
This road trip ends the way it began: with a splash. Meander your way across Cape Cod (be sure to stop for ice cream at least twice) and wrap up your adventure at the Cape Cod National Seashore. This nature preserve is pretty huge (it runs almost all the way to the tip of Cape Cod), so you probably won’t be able to see everything in one trip. However, be sure to check out Marconi Beach. Its soft sand and dramatic dunes are the perfect backdrop for a celebratory end-of-trip picnic. Besides the beach, you should definitely take an hour or so to follow the boardwalk through the park’s Atlantic White Cedar Swamp. Check out our previous article to learn more about Cape Cod National Seashore.
Cape Cod National Seashore, Wellfleet
It wouldn’t be much of a road trip if you had to take a ferry. However, if you have time, you should definitely head over to Martha’s Vineyard to check out these multi-colored cliffs. Ancient clay deposits lend the land beautiful ribbons of crimson, gold, green and even a bit of purple. Best viewed at sunset! Check out our previous article to learn more about the Aquinnah Cliffs.
Aquinnah Cliffs Overlook, 31 Aquinnah Cir, Aquinnah, MA 02535, USA
There are so many more natural wonders in MA, and this road trip only scratches the surface. Still, you can’t go wrong visiting all these spectacular sites. Would you add any other beautiful places in MA to this road trip? Let us know in the comments! You might also want to visit 10 man-made wonders in Massachusetts.
Don’t forget to nominate your favorite natural wonders in MA for a chance to see them featured in an upcoming article!
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The OIYS Visitor Center
Natural Wonders In Massachusetts & Related Info September 13, 2020 Beth Price-Williams Are there any natural wonders in MA? There are many natural wonders in MA, including:
Lake Massapoag in Sharon
The natural lake just might be the most underrated natural wonder in all of Massachusetts. It boasts clear, clean water, and spans more than 350 acres. It’s an ideal spot for swimming boating, and fishing.
Boston Harbor Islands National & State Park in Boston
Comprised of a collection of islands, this landmark attractions boasts a rich history and plentiful outdoor activities. What are the most picturesque hiking trails in Massachusetts? Many of the most relaxing places in Massachusetts can be found along its hiking trails. Some of the most picturesque hiking trails in MA are:
The Ashley Reservoir Trail in Holyoke
Spanning just over three miles, this hike and features such picturesque scenery as a shimmering lake, perfect for snapping photos.
The All Persons Trail at Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary
This easy hike takes you through lush forest, along a boardwalk, past flowing streams and ponds, and to a cascading waterfall. What are the best outdoor activities in Massachusetts? Some of the best outdoor activities in Massachusetts include:
Ramblewild’s Tree-to-Tree Adventure Park in Lanesborough.
The treetop adventure course is ideal for adventure seekers seven years and older. The ropes course features wooden bridges, rope ladders, and ziplines.
Nickerson State Park
Boasting 400 campsites this state park lets visitors pitch a tent or rent a yurt - and don’t forget swimming gear. The state park is home to a sandy beach that leads into the cool water.
The OIYS Visitor Center
Natural Wonders In Massachusetts & Related Info
September 13, 2020
Beth Price-Williams
Are there any natural wonders in MA? There are many natural wonders in MA, including:
Lake Massapoag in Sharon
The natural lake just might be the most underrated natural wonder in all of Massachusetts. It boasts clear, clean water, and spans more than 350 acres. It’s an ideal spot for swimming boating, and fishing.
Boston Harbor Islands National & State Park in Boston
Comprised of a collection of islands, this landmark attractions boasts a rich history and plentiful outdoor activities. What are the most picturesque hiking trails in Massachusetts? Many of the most relaxing places in Massachusetts can be found along its hiking trails. Some of the most picturesque hiking trails in MA are:
The Ashley Reservoir Trail in Holyoke
Spanning just over three miles, this hike and features such picturesque scenery as a shimmering lake, perfect for snapping photos.
The All Persons Trail at Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary
This easy hike takes you through lush forest, along a boardwalk, past flowing streams and ponds, and to a cascading waterfall. What are the best outdoor activities in Massachusetts? Some of the best outdoor activities in Massachusetts include:
Ramblewild’s Tree-to-Tree Adventure Park in Lanesborough.
The treetop adventure course is ideal for adventure seekers seven years and older. The ropes course features wooden bridges, rope ladders, and ziplines.
Nickerson State Park
Boasting 400 campsites this state park lets visitors pitch a tent or rent a yurt - and don’t forget swimming gear. The state park is home to a sandy beach that leads into the cool water.
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
There are many natural wonders in MA, including:
- Lake Massapoag in Sharon
The natural lake just might be the most underrated natural wonder in all of Massachusetts. It boasts clear, clean water, and spans more than 350 acres. It’s an ideal spot for swimming boating, and fishing.
- Boston Harbor Islands National & State Park in Boston
Comprised of a collection of islands, this landmark attractions boasts a rich history and plentiful outdoor activities.
What are the most picturesque hiking trails in Massachusetts?
Many of the most relaxing places in Massachusetts can be found along its hiking trails. Some of the most picturesque hiking trails in MA are:
- The Ashley Reservoir Trail in Holyoke
Spanning just over three miles, this hike and features such picturesque scenery as a shimmering lake, perfect for snapping photos.
- The All Persons Trail at Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary
This easy hike takes you through lush forest, along a boardwalk, past flowing streams and ponds, and to a cascading waterfall.
What are the best outdoor activities in Massachusetts?
Some of the best outdoor activities in Massachusetts include:
- Ramblewild’s Tree-to-Tree Adventure Park in Lanesborough.
The treetop adventure course is ideal for adventure seekers seven years and older. The ropes course features wooden bridges, rope ladders, and ziplines.
- Nickerson State Park
Boasting 400 campsites this state park lets visitors pitch a tent or rent a yurt - and don’t forget swimming gear. The state park is home to a sandy beach that leads into the cool water.
