Is swimming allowed at Lulu Cascade?

No, swimming is not allowed at Lulu Cascade.

Live Conditions · 38 ft³/s · Much lower than usual

Lulu Cascade

Q: Are dogs allowed at Lulu Cascade?

Yes, dogs are allowed at Lulu Cascade.

Massachusetts

By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026

Pittsfield State Forest SRMA · SPR

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

1.5 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

300 ft

About Lulu Cascade

Lulu Cascade is a small, picturesque waterfall tucked into the Berkshires of western Massachusetts. Nestled within Pittsfield State Forest — managed as a Special Recreation Management Area (SRMA) and owned by SPR — the cascade sits in a quiet, forested setting that makes for a restorative short hike away from busier viewpoints in the region. The falls are best appreciated as an intimate natural feature amid the trees rather than a large, dramatic drop. The route to Lulu Cascade is a pleasant outing for hikers who want a relatively short adventure with reward. A short detour off the Gould Trail brings you to the cascade, where the calm woodland atmosphere and the sound of flowing water create a peaceful spot to pause and explore. The area’s SRMA designation highlights its recreational value within Pittsfield State Forest.

The Setting

Lulu Cascade sits at 1,309 feet within Pittsfield State Forest, fed by the East Branch Housatonic River, in the foothills of Massachusetts.

Nearby Falls Worth Visiting

Wahconah Falls (40 ft) lies 9.4 miles to the east.

Wahconah Falls

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

The moderate 1.5-mile out and back trail gains 300 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

Access: Gould Trail (out-and-back). Total distance: 1.5 miles roundtrip with approximately 300 feet of elevation gain; rated moderate. Trail type: out-and-back. The path follows forested terrain and includes some uneven and rocky sections; it is commonly described as well-marked but can be rooty in places. Surface, grade, and trail class are not specified in the provided land/trail data.

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 Lulu Cascade?

✅ Dogs are allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🤑 Fee: $0.00

🏊 Is There Swimming at Lulu Cascade?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

The best time to visit Lulu Cascade is in the spring or after heavy rainfall when the water flow is at its peak. Fall is also a popular time due to the vibrant foliage in the surrounding forest.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.

Safety Information

The trail may be slippery after rain or during icy conditions in the winter. Always stay on marked trails and be cautious of loose rocks near the cascade.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 3 hours ago Barely Flowing

38 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

Much lower than usual for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

41 54 154 241

Based on 90 years of record

0.85 ft

Water depth at gauge

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.

About This Gauge

This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.

EAST BRANCH HOUSATONIC RIVER AT COLTSVILLE, MA

USGS 01197000

5.5 mi from waterfall

Drainage: 58 sq mi

Altitude: 993 ft

Know when to go.

Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Pittsfield hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

Lulu Cascade is located within Mount Greylock State Reservation. Visitors can access the trailhead from the Notch Road or Rockwell Road, which are the main roads leading into the park. The cascade is situated along the Gould Trail.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is available at designated lots within Mount Greylock State Reservation, including near the Gould Trail trailhead. Availability may vary during peak seasons.

Hours

Elevation

1309 feet above sea level

Coordinates

42.494806° N, -73.299550° W

Land Management

Pittsfield State Forest SRMA

Managed by UNK

Visitor Tips & Gear

Wear sturdy hiking shoes as the trail may be rocky or muddy in places. Bring insect repellent during the summer months. Arrive early during peak seasons to secure parking.

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With 1.5 miles and 300 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.