Mount Washington (Massachusetts)

Falls Road. Perhaps the state's most dramatic waterfall. The falls cascade through a series of gorges, and then drop 60 feet into a sparkling pool below. Wilderness camping available year round. There are two paths from the parking lot on the Massachusetts side of the park: One to a scenic lookout and the other to the falls. The view from the scenic lookout is a bit disappointing. From there, it is possible to do a difficult hike all the way down to the falls. The path from the falls back up to the parking lot is moderately difficult (make sure you take the path to the right parking lot, as there is one on the Massachusetts side and another on the New York side). Numerous signs warn that swimming in the park is prohibited, yet you will see some people swimming at their own risk, anyway. It is possible to see multiple hawks gracefully gliding in the sky over the falls, if you look at the right time.

East St. Year-round, sunrise to sunset, but no services are available (carry in, carry out). Seasonal road access and parking is available to the Guilder Pond day-use area (informal picnic area). From there a 3/4 mile path leads to the summit of Mount Everett (2,624-foot elev.), and a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of Massachusetts, New York and Connecticut. Even if you lack time to hike to the summit, it is worth driving up the dirt road to see a great view of the peaceful pond.

Year-round sunrise to sunset. Offers 30 miles of trails over 4,169 acres of rugged terrain. Hike the South Taconic Trail to the top of Alander Mountain for excellent vistas. Or follow the Appalachian Trail along the ridgeline and through Sage's Ravine.