Glendale Falls

About Glendale Falls

Tucked into the rolling hills of western Massachusetts, Glendale Falls is one of the most spectacular and unspoiled natural swimming destinations in the entire state. Fed by the clear, cold waters of Glendale Brook, this cascading series of falls holds the distinction of being one of the longest waterfall runs in Massachusetts — a fact that becomes immediately, strikingly obvious the moment you step through the surrounding forest and hear the roar of rushing water ahead of you. The site straddles the towns of Pittsfield, Hinsdale, and West Worthington, sitting in that quiet corner of the Berkshires where the landscape feels ancient and unhurried.

The Setting and Landscape

What strikes you first is the sheer scale of it. Water doesn't just trickle here — it tumbles and rushes over mossy ledges and smooth granite shelves in a long, dramatic cascade that draws the eye upward and downward at once. The surrounding forest presses in close, a dense canopy of hardwoods and hemlocks that filters the light into shifting greens and golds depending on the season. In spring, the falls run loud and muscular with snowmelt, throwing mist into the cool air. By summer, the forest quiets, the light turns buttery, and the brook settles into its most inviting, swimmable state. Come fall, the hillsides ignite in color — deep reds, burnt oranges, and amber yellows reflected in the dark pools below. Winter transforms the whole scene into something almost otherworldly, with ice formations clinging to the rock faces like frozen sculpture. No two visits to Glendale Falls are quite the same.

Swimming in Glendale Brook

In summer, the pools carved out at the base of the falls offer a genuinely refreshing swim in cool, clean creek water. The rocky brook bottom and natural ledges give the site a wild, unmanicured feel that's part of the appeal — this is not a groomed swimming beach, and that's exactly why people love it. You'll want to wade in slowly and find your footing, as the streambed is rocky and uneven in places. The water runs clear enough that you can watch your feet among the smooth stones below the surface. Depth varies by section and season, so exploring the different pools along the run is part of the experience. Come prepared to be cold — Glendale Brook stays brisk even on the hottest August afternoons, which makes it all the more refreshing after the hike in.

Plan Your Visit

Glendale Falls is an unofficial, unsanctioned swimming site with no facilities on-site — no restrooms, no parking attendants, no lifeguards. There is no fee to visit, but you'll want to arrive prepared with everything you need. Sturdy footwear is essential; the rocky terrain near the falls demands more than sandals or flip-flops. The drive to the falls requires careful attention to directions, so download or print your route before you lose cell service in the hills. If you'd like to make a weekend of it, the Pittsfield State Forest on the northwest side of Pittsfield offers two well-regarded, inexpensive camping areas nearby. The closest towns — Pittsfield, Hinsdale, and West Worthington — give you access to services and supplies before you head out into the woods. Pittsfield, the largest of the three, is your best bet for a meal, fuel, or last-minute gear before the visit.