Glendale Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.3 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Glendale Falls
Glendale Falls is one of the longest and most powerful waterfalls in Massachusetts, located in the Glendale Brook area of the Chester-Blandford State Forest. The falls cascade over a series of rocky ledges, creating a picturesque and serene environment.
The Setting
Glendale Falls sits at 1,066 feet within Glendale Falls, fed by the Westfield River, in the foothills of Massachusetts.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Glendale Falls is short and easy, leading visitors directly to the base of the falls. The path is well-maintained but may be slippery near the water, especially after rain. Visitors can explore the surrounding area for additional views of the cascading water.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Glendale Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Glendale Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring is the best time to visit Glendale Falls, as the water flow is typically strongest due to snowmelt and spring rains. Fall is also a popular time due to the vibrant foliage.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the water as rocks can be slippery. Avoid visiting during heavy rain or icy conditions as the trail may become hazardous.
Current Water Conditions
200 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 112 years of record
3.33 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing higher than usual 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 WESTFIELD RIVER AT KNIGHTVILLE, MA (11 km away).
Today
Moderate
200 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Moderate
216 cfs
6/10Sat
Moderate
250 cfs
9/10Sun
Moderate
216 cfs
9/10Mon
Moderate
209 cfs
9/10Tue
Moderate
225 cfs
9/10Wed
Moderate
241 cfs
9/10Best window: Sat — moderate flow, sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early March to late 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 Lenox Dale 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 shows the creek losing roughly 80 feet through Glendale Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 1,067 feet.
The ground changes about 49 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 137 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northeast and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,067 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 80 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Glendale Falls is located in Middlefield, Massachusetts. The trailhead is accessible via Clark Wright Road, which is a short drive off Route 20. The parking area is near the trailhead.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
A small parking lot is available near the trailhead, but it may fill up quickly during peak seasons.
Elevation
1,066 feet above sea level
Coordinates
42.350176° N, -72.966914° W
Land Management
Managed by UNK
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during weekends and peak seasons. Wear sturdy shoes as the area near the falls can be slippery. Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities nearby.
Where to Stay
Berkshires Untold
Holiday Inn Club Vacations Oak n Spruce Resort in the Berkshires
Courtyard by Marriott Lenox Berkshires
The Black Swan Lee - Lenox, an Ascend Collection Hotel
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
INDIAN HOLLOW
6 miles away · 2 sites
Overview With abundant wildlife, lush scenery and waterfront views, Indian Hollow Group Campground, located at the Knightville Dam and Reservoir, offers groups and clubs a recreational oasis.Recreation The rivers and streams at Knightville offer excellent trout fishing, and the river is stocked with trout in both the spring and fall. The surrounding hills provide prime upland game habitat, and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts stocks pheasants for the fall hunting season. Hunting and fishing are
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Nearby Attractions
Chester-Blandford State Forest, Keystone Arch Bridges Trail, and the town of Chester.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, small mammals, and occasional deer sightings.
Cities near Glendale Falls
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