17 Outdoor Adventures in Massachusetts That Will Make You Come Back Again
Massachusetts is a nature trippers delight, for it has almost everything from its rocky coastline to its mountain forests. For those willing to spend some time alone with nature, the state offers countless options that attract people. Each time you will find a new trail, a new path, or a new perspective that contributes to the extra charm of the place.
If you are an outdoor person who enjoys the jolt of fresh air, the anticipation of conquering new rugged lands, and the thrill of outdoor activities, then adventure in Massachusetts will be more than sufficient for you. Here are 17 outdoor trips that will give you that unquenchable thirst to do the next one.
Hiking the Appalachian Trail
The west of Massachusetts is also a part of the famed Appalachian Trail which has over 90 miles of beautiful land. Whether you are a day hiker or plan for a longer trail, this trail has beautiful views, up and down slopes and a quiet forest. Be prepared to feel completely surrounded by woods and streams providing wonderful atmosphere for the hike.
Kayaking on the Charles River
Providing the perfect paddling conditions, the Charles River runs through the state’s capital, Boston and several other surrounding towns. For new entrants or experienced ones, there are some urban views and some exquisite greenery of the river. Everything feels so calm with occasional swimming rowers and sails passing through, plus the towers of Boston contrasting with the natural appearance of river sides.
Exploring the Berkshires
The Berkshires are beautiful all year-round but they are especially beautiful during the fall when the trees shed their leaves. Featuring hundreds of miles of trails for hikers, driving tours, and wildlife watching, this area is about as close to paradise as any lovers of the out of doors could hope for. You will also see plenty of places to canoe, kayak, or fish with various lakes and rivers and camping sites to those who want an overnight adventure.
Cycling the Cape Cod Rail Trail
The longest rail trail on the Cape Cod is more than 25 miles long; this path is easy and perfect for beginner cyclists. While cycling through picturesque villages, meadows of pine trees, and swamps, you can take a break at one or another beach or have an ice-cream in one of the trail villages. This is actually a fantastic means to enjoy the seaside atmosphere with an additional bonus of some exercise.
Climbing Mount Greylock
Mount Greylock is the highest peak in the elevation of Massachusetts; the mount elevates from nearby plain ground and the top is good for viewing after a tiring hike. The view is so spectacular that on a clear day you can see five states! There are tracks of different levels of difficulty; if you need only several hours to climb up, you will find the appropriate route, if you planned to spend the whole day, the same trail will be also waiting for you. And at the top, they are no words or experience that can match the feeling of standing at the top of the highest point in that state.
Rock Climbing at Rumney Rocks
For those who are interested in more of a climbing experience, Rumney Rocks is for you, with steep cliffs and great vistas. This climbing site is famous for its rough topography and magnificent rocks and it has many climbers from all over. It’s a place where you can go as far as you can, and feel like you are on top of the world even if you are only a few feet off the ground.
Whale Watching in Provincetown
Swimming with the whales is appealing to most and is available at Provincetown. Provincetown’s waters are some of the best feeding grounds for humpback whales and you can get a boat tour that will take you right into it. Watching these big beasts breach or rising out the water with a tail slap is something incredible. Remember to bring your camera – this is one trip you will want captured in photographs.
Skiing at Wachusett Mountain
During the winter time, Massachusetts is great for skiing and one of the best places for that is at Wachusett Mountain. Skiing is just an hour away from Boston and one of the best places to ski is in Wachusett Mountain. Wachusett has trails for the beginner, intermediate, and advanced skier/snowboarder and a lodge to warm up in when you are done.
Zip-lining at Berkshire East
If you are interested in that screw of fun, then the zip line tours at Berkshire East adventure would do it for you. Indoor zip-lining let you fly through the trunks of the trees in the Berkshires and watch the forest go by below you at the same time. It is a thrilling method of accessing the natural splendor of the country in a manner that cannot be gotten from the ground.
Paddleboarding on Nantucket
If you have never been paddleboarding before, then there is no better time to start than on Nantucket’s flat waters. One must admit that with its bays and small harbours Nantucket is deemed to be an ideal place for such a tranquil sailing. Sail a board and enjoy the experience of paddling along the coast which gives an excellent view of the Island’s stunning views.
Horseback Riding in Myles Standish State Forest
A horseback ride through Myles Standish State Forest will give you an experience of Massachusetts like no other. This vast forest has many miles of bridle paths which go through pine plantations, past water, and on sandy tracks. Whether you already know how to ride a horse or if you don’t even know how to sit on a horse, you are sure to feel the beauty of nature when horseback riding through these areas.
Rock Climbing at Rumney Rocks
If rock climbing is your passion or if you have never been involved in it, Rumney Rocks gives you the best experience of climbing in the state. This destination offers trails for both the new and professional climber and there is always something new to discover. The steep cliffs and the awesome panoramic scenes that can be viewed from the summit are a great incentive for each climb.
Birdwatching at the Parker River Wildlife Refuge
For a low key but equally intense journey, then go for birding at the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge on Plum Island. This coastal sanctuary is even more ideal for migrating birds and bird watchers will have the chance to see many different species. Please come equipped with your binoculars and spend the day quietly amidst marshes, dunes and beaches.
Surfing at Good Harbor Beach
If you fancy doing some surfing, then you would definitely love surfing in Good Harbor Beach Gloucester. Having a sandy bottom and permanent swell, this beach is great for learners and professional surfers alike. And when you’re done having so much fun surfing the waves, you can sit back on the sand and watch the beauty of ocean.
Fishing in the Quabbin Reservoirs
Besides being a picturesque location perfect for a day of fishing away from any noise and people, the Quabbin Reservoir boasts of its large concentration of trout, bass, and salmon. This reservoir is located enclosed with hundreds of miles of forests; the atmosphere is calm and friendly and visitors can spend the day fishing in the clean waters.
Snowshoeing in Savoy Mountain State Forests
In the winter, Savoy Mountain State Forest becomes a snow covered landscape perfect for snowshoeing. There is nothing quite like the snowy paths – undeceiving, picturesque and peaceful where several animals’ tracks can be traced as well. It is a fun approach to winter and the opportunity to find the charm of the Massachusetts forests.
Exploring Halibut Point State Park
Located in Rockport, Halibut Point State Park is famous for the fantastic quarries of granite and the seacoast view. The park has trails that lead through old quarry areas and along the coast through rocky shores and is a great place for a morning hike, tide pooling or just to enjoy the coastal views. Do not forget to take a camera with you—this park has beautiful sea views.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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