Address
4G85+29, Mt. Washington, MA 01258
- This page, Bash Bish Falls State Park, is offered by
- Department of Conservation & Recreation
Bash Bish Falls State Park
Details
Overview
Bash Bish Falls State Park offers scenic viewing of the Commonwealth’s largest waterfall. The dramatic final pitch of Bash Bish Brook drops about 60 feet into an emerald plunge pool.
Sacred to the Mohican and Scaghticoke peoples, it later sparked new scientific thoughts, became an inspiring muse for artists, and an exciting vacation spot. Today, visitors can enjoy moderate to rigorous hikes through the surrounding landscape and stunning views of the falls from a designated viewing area.
Bash Bish is contiguous with Mount Washington State Forest and other preserved lands. Together, they constitute a densely biodiverse habitat for many protected species, and home to old growth forest areas.
Bash Bish Falls connects to Taconic State Park in New York State. Highlights there include the historic Copake Iron Works, Harlem Valley Rail Trail, camping, picnicking, swimming, and hiking.
Sacred to the Mohican and Scaghticoke peoples, it later sparked new scientific thoughts, became an inspiring muse for artists, and an exciting vacation spot. Today, visitors can enjoy moderate to rigorous hikes through the surrounding landscape and stunning views of the falls from a designated viewing area.
Bash Bish is contiguous with Mount Washington State Forest and other preserved lands. Together, they constitute a densely biodiverse habitat for many protected species, and home to old growth forest areas.
Bash Bish Falls connects to Taconic State Park in New York State. Highlights there include the historic Copake Iron Works, Harlem Valley Rail Trail, camping, picnicking, swimming, and hiking.
Hours
Sunrise to sunset
Parking
Where you park determines your hike to the falls. Refer to All Activities - Hiking below to park at the appropriate location for your hike. Parking is free at the parking lot on Falls Road in Mount Washington, MA, limited to 24 cars. Parking is also available at Taconic State Park, off NY Route 344 in Copake Falls, NY. On-road parking along Falls Road or Route 344 is not permitted at any time.
Activities
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Hiking
It is a hike to experience Bash Bish Falls. To plan your hike refer to All Activities - Hiking below.
Facilities
- Scenic Viewing Area
- Restrooms. Portable toilets available May through mid-October.
All Activities
Hiking
Hiking is required to get to the falls. You have two options:
- From Massachusetts Parking Lot: Difficult ability, about 0.6 miles round-trip. Shorter, more rugged, and strenuous.
- From New York Parking Lot: Moderate ability, about 1.5 miles round-trip. Longer and gradual, but rocky and uneven.
- South Taconic Trail: A 12.4-mile hiking trail. Moderate to difficult ability. Access is from Taconic State Park in New York. Click here for trail map.
Accessibility
- Both trails to the falls are not wheelchair accessible.
- Restrooms. Accessible portable toilets available at Massachusetts parking lot and at falls viewing deck from Labor Day through Columbus Day.
Restrictions
- Direct access to the falls is prohibited. Visitors are required to stay within the dedicated viewing area
- Pets on leash always. Clean up after your pet and remove waste off site.
- Entering the water is prohibited. No swimming or diving
- No rock climbing
- No picnicking, grilling or fires
- No alcohol, or glass containers
- No coolers
- No trash cans. Please carry-in, carry-out all trash and personal items.
- No drones
- No access to the upper gorge from the Massachusetts parking lot – it is dangerous.
More info
Bash Bish Falls is a natural area with inherent dangers. Remember—safety first. We ask all visitors to only use designated trails and areas open to the public. Trails and rocks may be slippery, wear sturdy shoes. Respect the dangers without taking risks. Be content to simply enjoy the beauty of the falls.
