There are 8 incredible waterfalls right in our backyard and just a close drive from Boston!

Walking in nature can refresh the soul and renew the spirit. And a waterfall is one of the most breathtaking sights in nature! The mesmerizing sound of the water as it falls, the mist that rises from the bottom, and the sheer power of the cascading water make for a truly unforgettable experience. Close your eyes and picture it already.

(Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images)

Why We Should Get Out And Take a Hike

Walking in nature has many benefits for our mental and physical health. It can reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and increase physical fitness. A walk in nature is a great way to clear your mind and relax your body. The sights, sounds, and smells of nature can help to soothe your senses and bring a sense of peace and tranquility.

When you add the beauty of a waterfall to the mix, the experience becomes even more magical. Watching the water cascade down the rocks can be hypnotic and mesmerizing. The sound of the water falling is calming and soothing, and the mist that rises from the bottom can refresh your skin and senses.

(Photo by Sean Gallup/Getty Images)

Walking to a waterfall can also be an adventure. Many waterfalls are located in remote areas, and the hike to get there can be an exciting and challenging experience. The trail may be steep and rocky, but the reward of reaching the waterfall is well worth the effort.

Waterfalls Near Boston

So where are these magical and mystical waterfalls near Boston? Take a look, and take a hike sometime!

• The Cascade - Melrose, MA

  178 Washington St, Melrose, MA

  This fall is the closest to Boston. It’s most beautiful after a heavy rain. If you go during a dry week, you will be disappointed! But it’s only a 5-minute walk to the falls, so it’s worth checking out!

  The Cascade-Melrose - Massachusetts

  Overview of The Cascade-Melrose. Includes description, photos, trail info, and directions.

• Pawtucket Falls - Lowell, MA

  Cobblestones of Lowell, 91 Dutton St, Lowell, MA

  Pawtucket Falls is on the Merrimack River and while it’s a 5.6-mile hike, everyone says the waterfall is the most beautiful part of the journey!

  PawtucketFalls - Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park (U.S. National Park Service)

  In 1671, Joseph Jenckes, Jr., built an iron forge by the falls. He used the water to power his trip hammer and blast furnace. Soon other iron workers joined him, founding the Village of Pawtucket. Pawtucket grew in the early 1700s, especially after a bridge was built over the Falls in 1713.

• Sutton Falls (Manchaug Falls and Blackstone River Waterfall) - Sutton, MA

  Intersection of Main St., Manchaug Rd., Whitins Rd., and Putnam Hill Rd. The waterfall is at the southwest corner of the intersection.

  There are two waterfalls within close distance in Sutton, MA! The Blackstone River Waterfall is bigger, but people say that the Manchaug is more stunning.

  Manchaug Falls Sutton Massachusetts

  Manchaug Falls Sutton Massachusetts - Sutton is blessed to be home to two gorgeous waterfalls. While the Blackstone River waterfall might be larger, the Manchaug Falls are more serene!

• Purgatory Falls - Lyndeborough, NH

  Trailhead and parking area are on Purgatory Road in Lyndeborough, NH. From the junction of Rt. 101 and Rt. 101A

  There are actually three waterfalls on this hike so there’s lots to look at.

  Purgatory Falls - NH Family Hikes

  Everything you need to know about hiking Purgatory Falls.

• Spirit Falls - Royalston, MA

  178-100 Warwick Rd, Royalston, MA

  This is a not really a waterfall, but more of a beautiful cascade. “The falls is seasonal but is splendid in high water. Spirit Falls can also be easily combined with other highly recommended natural features in the area, specifically Doane’s Falls and Royalston Falls.”

  Spirit Falls - Massachusetts

  Overview of Spirit Falls. Includes description, photos, trail info, and directions.

• South Natick Falls - Natick, MA

  58 Eliot Street, Natick, MA

  This is where the Charles River meets the South Natick Dam.

  South Natick Dam - Natick Historical Society

  A history of the Charles River dam in South Natick, researched by Wellesley College student Charlotte Diamant.

• Trap Falls - West Townsend, MA

  599 Main St, West Townsend, MA

  “Trap Falls is much more impressive than its size would indicate. In the right water conditions, three separate plunges dump into a shallow pool. The center falls is slightly higher than the others, and is shaped like a punchbowl.”

  Trap Falls - Massachusetts

  Overview of Trap Falls. Includes description, photos, trail info, and directions.

• Stepstone Falls - West Greenwich, RI

  Off Route 165 west, take Escoheag Hill Road north for one mile to the trailhead by an old cabin.

  If you think you’re seeing a waterfall you will be disappointed. Stepstone Falls is really what it’s name says… they’re more of a staircase of water that cascades downwards.

  Stepstone Falls - Rhode Island

  Overview of Stepstone Falls. Includes description, photos, trail info, and directions.

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