Bash Bish Falls State Park Entrance

This moderate 5.5-mile (8.8 km) hike to Bash Bish Falls offers a unique blend of easy rail trail cruising and a rewarding climb to a spectacular waterfall. You'll start on the paved Harlem Valley Rail Trail, winding through serene wooded areas, wetlands, and open farmland, before the terrain dramatically shifts to a forested path alongside Bash Bish Brook. The grand finale is Bash Bish Falls, Massachusetts' highest single-drop waterfall, plunging 60 feet into an emerald pool, a truly ethereal sight after 2 hours and 29 minutes of hiking.

To plan your visit, note that the trail connects via Taconic State Park in Copake Falls, New York. While the Harlem Valley Rail Trail is largely flat and accessible, the final push to Bash Bish Falls involves a more significant elevation gain of 600 feet (183 metres), with steeper sections and rocky terrain, particularly on the Massachusetts side. Parking is available, and the trail is generally open year-round, though conditions vary seasonally.

What makes this route stand out is its ability to combine two distinct hiking experiences: the gentle, multi-use Harlem Valley Rail Trail and the rugged, dramatic approach to Bash Bish Falls. This blend of rural landscapes and a powerful natural landmark in the southern Taconic Mountains makes it a distinctive and appealing option for those seeking varied scenery and a memorable waterfall destination.

This easy 1.6-mile (2.6 km) loop from Taconic State Park – Copake Falls Area is your ticket to Massachusetts' tallest waterfall, Bash Bish Falls, with a modest 199 feet (61 metres) of elevation gain. The trail follows a wide, old woods road, winding alongside the scenic Bash Bish Brook through a shaded hemlock-hardwood ravine forest. You'll experience a gentle climb after an initial short descent, leading you to the dramatic 60-foot (18-meter) single-drop waterfall that splits around a gigantic boulder.

Plan your visit by heading to the Taconic State Park – Copake Falls Area in New York, which offers the easier approach to the falls. Parking can fill up quickly, especially on warm summer weekends, so an early start is recommended. The route is generally smooth underfoot, making it suitable for various fitness levels, and you can expect to complete the hike in about 43 minutes.

Bash Bish Falls is a significant natural landmark, notable for its unique geology and the fact that the trail crosses the state line from New York into Massachusetts. While the impressive falls are the main draw, the surrounding Taconic State Park area also connects to historic sites like the Copake Iron Works, offering a glimpse into the region's past. Remember that swimming in the emerald pool at the base of the falls is strictly prohibited for safety reasons.

The Taconic State Park – Sunset Rock Overlook loop from Copake Falls Area offers a moderate 5.5-mile (8.8 km) hike with 1210 feet (369 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 2 hours and 49 minutes. You will traverse varied terrain, from rocky paths alongside a calm creek to dense woodlands of pine, hemlock, and mountain laurel. The highlight is undoubtedly the Sunset Rock Overlook, providing sweeping 180-degree views of the Hudson Valley and the Catskill Mountains in the distance.

To plan your visit, start your adventure from the Copake Falls Area. Be aware that the path can be rocky, and you will encounter several stream crossings, some of which might not have bridges. The climb to Sunset Rock is steady and can be steep in sections, so good fitness is recommended. The trail is particularly popular for its namesake sunsets, but also offers beautiful spring wildflowers and vibrant fall foliage.

This route is part of the broader network that includes the South Taconic Trail, and the area is rich in both natural and historical context. Nearby, you can find the historic Copake Iron Works site, adding another layer of interest to your trip. The diverse flora and the dramatic views make this loop a standout option for those exploring the Taconic State Park Copake Falls hiking trails.