Bear Rock Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (2)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Bear Rock Falls
Bear Rock Falls is a small, scenic cascade tucked into the forested slopes of the Berkshires, reached through Mount Everett State Reservation. The site lies within a State Conservation Area (SCA) owned by SPR, and offers a quiet, leafy setting that feels tucked away from the busiest parts of the region. Flow at the falls can be seasonal—best after spring runoff or following rain—so bring expectations for a gentle, intimate waterfall rather than a roaring plunge. The falls are most commonly visited as the objective of a short day hike: a moderate out-and-back that climbs through mixed hardwoods and mossy ledges to a shady pool at the base of the drop. The route is popular with local hikers looking for a quick nature escape in the reservation and rewards visitors with a peaceful spot to pause and listen to water and bird song.
The Setting
Bear Rock Falls sits at 1,631 feet within Mount Everett State Reservation, fed by the Housatonic River, in the hills of Massachusetts.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Bash Bish Falls (60 ft) lies 4.6 miles to the northwest.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
This is a 2.4-mile out-and-back trail with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain, rated moderate. The path leads through wooded terrain in Mount Everett State Reservation (land owner: SPR, SCA designation). Official USFS/agency surface, grade, and trail-class data are not provided for this route; visitors should expect a natural forest footpath that can be uneven in places. The route is generally well-marked but includes roots, rocks and potentially slippery sections near the waterfall—sturdy footwear and cautious footing are recommended.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Bear Rock Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Bear Rock Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall is most active during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The rocks near the waterfall can be slippery, especially after rain. Visitors should exercise caution and supervise children closely. Be aware of ticks in the area and take appropriate precautions.
Current Water Conditions
241 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 22 years of record
2.04 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge HOUSATONIC RIVER NEAR ASHLEY FALLS, MA (9 km away).
Today
Moderate
238 cfs
9/10Tomorrow
Moderate
298 cfs
8/10Thu
Moderate
371 cfs
9/10Fri
Moderate
380 cfs
6/10Sat
Strong
400 cfs
8/10Sun
Strong
363 cfs
8/10Mon
Strong
357 cfs
8/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, mostly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early March to early May, peaking in April.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Lakeville hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
1-meter lidar measures about 200 feet of descent through Bear Rock Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 1,632 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 80 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 337 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing east, the falls catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,632 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 200 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- East
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading east).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Bear Rock Falls is located near the town of New Marlborough, Massachusetts. Access is typically via local roads, and visitors should use GPS or local maps to navigate to the trailhead.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is limited and may consist of roadside parking or small pull-offs near the trailhead. Visitors should plan accordingly and avoid blocking private property.
Elevation
1,631 feet above sea level
Coordinates
42.062841° N, -73.437191° W
Land Management
Managed by UNK
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit after rainfall for the best water flow. Bring bug spray during warmer months, as the area can be buggy. Arrive early to secure parking, especially on weekends.
Where to Stay
Wilder House Berkshires
Holiday Inn Club Vacations Oak n Spruce Resort in the Berkshires
Holiday Inn Express Great Barrington by IHG
East Rock Inn
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Campbell Falls State Park and the town of Great Barrington, which offers dining and shopping options.
Wildlife
The area is home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should respect the natural habitat and avoid disturbing animals.
Cities near Bear Rock Falls
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