Bash Bish Falls facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Bash Bish Falls |
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| Location: | Mount Washington, Massachusetts, US | ||
| Type: | Cascade | ||
| Total height: | 60 feet (18 m) | ||
Bash Bish Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in Bash Bish Falls State Park in the Taconic Mountains of southwestern Massachusetts, US. It's known as the highest waterfall in Massachusetts! This amazing natural wonder is made up of several smaller waterfalls, or cascades, that together drop almost 200 feet (61 meters). The very last part of the falls is quite special: the water splits into two twin streams around a large rock, forming a "V" shape as it plunges 80 feet (24 meters) down into a calm pool below.
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Discover Bash Bish Falls
The water that forms Bash Bish Falls starts from a spring in Mount Washington, Massachusetts. After flowing over the falls, the water becomes Bash Bish Brook. This brook then continues its journey through New York State until it eventually joins the Hudson River.
The waterfall sits at the entrance of a deep valley, called a gorge. This gorge was carved out by glaciers during the last ice age! Across from the waterfall, at the back of the gorge, there's a tall rock wall that stands 194 feet (59 meters) high.
How to Visit the Falls
There are a few ways to see Bash Bish Falls. The main ways are from Falls Road in Mount Washington, Massachusetts. This road is a continuation of New York State Route 344. You can find both an upper and a lower viewing area along this road.
There's also a hiking trail that leads to the falls. This trail is a bit steep and is marked with blue blazes. It connects from the South Taconic Trail and lets you see the falls from the south side. Bash Bish Falls is located on Bash Bish Mountain, which is about 1,500 feet (457 meters) high.
Staying Safe at the Falls
From the very top of the waterfalls, often called the "Summit," you can enjoy a clear view across Massachusetts and into New York State. To help keep visitors safe, the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation has put up railings.
It's very important to be careful when visiting Bash Bish Falls. The pools are shallow, and swimming is not allowed because it can be dangerous. Climbing or jumping on the rocks is also very risky. Always follow the safety signs and rules to have a fun and safe visit!
Nearby Parks and Recognition
Bash Bish Falls State Park is surrounded by other beautiful natural areas. It's right next to Massachusetts' Mount Washington State Forest, which covers about 4,000 acres (16 square kilometers). It's also close to New York's Taconic State Park, which is about 5,000 acres (20 square kilometers).
In 2007, readers of the Berkshire Eagle newspaper voted Bash Bish Falls as one of the "Wonders of Berkshire County." This shows how much people appreciate its natural beauty!
Images for kids
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Rocky Pool Bash-Bish Falls by John Frederick Kensett, 1865
