Bash Bish Falls
Mount Washington, Massachusetts
Details
Distance
0.75 miles
Elevation Gain
295 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Description
Added by Lucas Gashi
Bash Bish Falls is a spectacular 60-foot waterfall located on the Massachusetts-New York border in the southern Berkshires. This popular destination offers easy hiking access and stunning natural beauty, making it perfect for families and casual hikers.
Parking Options
- Massachusetts Side: 0.5-mile hike to falls
- New York Side: 1.0-mile hike to falls (Copake Falls area)
- Both parking areas provide easy trail access
Trail Information
- Difficulty: Easy
- Trail Type: Well-marked, family-friendly path
- Best Time to Visit: Spring through fall for optimal water flow
Swimming Information
Important: Swimming is NOT permitted directly at Bash Bish Falls due to safety concerns.
Alternative Swimming Options:
- Several family-safe swimming pools located upstream from the falls
- Additional swimming holes downstream from the falls
- Look for areas away from posted warning signs
- Always exercise caution around water
Safety Guidelines
- Stay Away from Falls Edge: Posted signs warn visitors not to approach the top of the falls
- Swim Responsibly: Only swim in designated safe areas upstream or downstream
- Watch Children: Keep children supervised near all water areas
- Proper Footwear: Wear sturdy shoes for potentially slippery rocks
Camping Options
New York Side
Taconic State Park (Copake Falls, NY)
- Full camping facilities
- Convenient to NY parking area
- Reservations recommended
Massachusetts Side
Mount Washington State Forest
- Ashley Brook Primitive Campsites
- State-approved designated primitive camping
- Outhouse facilities available
- Accessible hike from Mt. Washington State Forest Headquarters
Planning Your Visit
- Arrive Early: Popular destination, especially on weekends
- Bring Water: Stay hydrated during your hike
- Pack Out Trash: Help preserve this natural area
- Check Conditions: Water levels vary seasonally
Getting There
The falls are accessible from both Massachusetts Route 344 and New York State Route 344.
Note: Always check current park conditions and regulations before visiting, as rules and access may change seasonally.
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Bash Bish Falls Reviews
Path was a little washed out from storms over the summer but still an easy & short hike down to the falls. A beautiful scene when the sun is out! Found a nice small spot to sit and read for a few hours. Definitely a good trip if wanting something short to add into the day!
4.0
Beautiful hike the entire way and the waterfall is gorgeous!
5.0
Stopped here on my way home from a trip to Vermont/Western Mass. in February. There had been a quick warm up and it melted a bunch of snow, so the falls was raging. We had the place mostly to ourselves on a cold Sunday afternoon.
4.0
This is by far my favorite waterfall to go to. So so beautiful and fun! Easy and quick hike too
5.0
Beautiful falls which are often uncrowded. The water level varies through the year so there are times when the falls run light.
4.0
I've been going to Bash Bish since I was young, and it never disappoints! The hike is short ... A little steep at times...but definitely manageable and the falls are worth the effort. :-)
3.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
Nearby
Bash Bish Falls from Taconic State Park
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