Bash Bish Falls | World Waterfall Database

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This waterfall has been surveyed, mapped and measured in person by the World Waterfall Database.

Though likely not the case, Bash Bish Falls is commonly claimed to be the tallest waterfall in Massachusetts. The falls drop about 180 feet in a linear run of about 480 feet, though no single fall exceeds roughly 50 feet in height. The falls consist of a series of flumes, cascades and punchbowls in a deep, constricted, seriously inaccessible gorge which has claimed the lives of many who have attempted to find a view into the defile. While portions of the upper part of the falls can be seen from places along the trails leading to the falls, only the final tier which splits around a huge boulder lodged in the canyon and falls in parallel streams for about 50 feet to a large pool below is clearly visible. During periods of high water, the falls assume a very powerful form, with the waters of Bash Bish Brook frequently turning a muddy, murky brown color, while in the summer the stream shrivels such that only one segment of the final tier of the falls may be flowing.

HISTORY AND NAMES

Bash Bish Falls is the Official name of this waterfall

Bash Bish (not Bish Bash, mind you) is said to be the name of an Indian maiden who was tied to a canoe and sent over the top of the falls as punishment for being unfaithful to her betrothed. In a twist of irony (or perhaps destiny), White Swan, the daughter of Bash Bish, is said to have suffered the same fate at the same waterfall.

Our thoughts

While it may or may not be the tallest in the state, Bash Bish Falls is certainly one of the more impressive waterfalls in Massachusetts simply because the geology of the canyon which forms the falls is so extreme and pronounced compared to the other waterfalls found in the region. It's certainly out of the way for those traveling from Boston, but it's worth the drive for waterfall hunters who plan on being in the area.

Location and directions

Bash Bish Falls is located in Mount Washington, but the most direct access is from Copake in New York. From the junction of Routes 23 and 22 in Hillsdale, New York, follow Route 22 south for four miles and turn left onto Route 344. After one-third of a mile, make a hard left following Route 344 east then stay left at the next fork, following signs pointing to Bash Bish Falls. There are three parking areas, one is found about half of a mile before crossing into Massachusetts, the second (at a gated gravel road) is found about 500 feet east of the state line and the third and largest is found at the top of the falls. All three are connected to the same trail system. The second parking area is the smallest but it affords access to the falls with the least amount of walking. From the lower parking area, the hike to the falls is three-quarters of a mile, from the middle parking area its all of about 800 feet and from the upper parking area, it's about one-third of a mile (but is much steeper).

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Bash Bish Falls is shown in the center. The 10 closest waterfalls within a 8km radius are shown as well (if any). Click any icon or see the list below for more information.

Additional Nearby Waterfalls

Name of Waterfall	Distance
Glen Brook Falls	3.58 mi / 5.72 km
Race Brook Falls	4.08 mi / 6.54 km
Bear Rock Falls	4.72 mi / 7.55 km

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Photography tips

The basin at the bottom of the falls is fairly wide open and the falls will see much direct sunlight during the afternoon hours, so best photography is had during the morning or late evening. Spray can be a problem during high water.

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Bash Bish Falls Berkshire County, Massachusetts, United States