Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
200 ft
About Spirit Falls
Spirit Falls is a 30-foot (9.1 m) cascade tucked into the Jacobs Hill open space preserve in Royalston, Massachusetts. The preserve—known locally as Jacobs Hill Reservation—is owned and managed by the nonprofit Trustees of Reservations, and the scenic Tully Trail (a 22-mile / 35 km route) passes right by the falls, making it an easy and rewarding stop for day-hikers and long-distance trekkers alike. The falls’ compact drop and rocky plunge pool create a photogenic focal point amid classic New England woods. The setting is peaceful and inviting year-round: a short stroll through mixed hardwood and evergreen forest delivers you to the viewing ledges. If you’d like to extend your visit into an overnight stay, Tully Lake Recreation Area is about 2.9 km (roughly 1.8 miles) away and offers nearby camping options.
The Setting
Spirit Falls sits at 761 feet within Jacobs Hill Reservation, fed by the East Branch Tully River, in the foothills of Massachusetts.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Royalston Falls (45 ft) lies 3.8 miles to the northwest.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 1.5-mile out-and-back trail gains 200 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The hike to Spirit Falls is an out-and-back route of approximately 1.5 miles with about 200 feet of elevation gain; the route is rated moderate. The path winds through mixed hardwood and evergreen forest and is well-marked, but expect uneven footing and some rocky sections—sturdy shoes are recommended. This is a conserved, non‑USFS trail inside the Trustees of Reservations’ Jacobs Hill Reservation and is frequently accessed from the Tully Trail corridor. The short distance and modest climb make it a great half‑day outing for hikers looking for a compact waterfall destination; watch for wet or slippery rock near the falls and plan accordingly.
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 Spirit Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Spirit Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Spirit Falls, as the water flow is typically stronger due to snowmelt and rainfall. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides a lush green backdrop.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution on the trail, especially near the waterfall, as rocks can be slippery. Be aware of ticks and other insects in the area. Always stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge EAST BRANCH TULLY RIVER NEAR ATHOL, MA (3 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
14 cfs
4/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
14 cfs
4/10Tue
Barely Flowing
14 cfs
4/10Wed
Barely Flowing
14 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
14 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
14 cfs
5/10Sat
Barely Flowing
15 cfs
3/10Best window: Wed — barely flowing flow, partly sunny (trip score 5/10).
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 Baldwinville 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.
The ground through the falls loses about 183 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 753 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 196 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 70 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing west, the falls glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 753 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 183 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- West
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading west).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Spirit Falls is located near the town of Savoy, Massachusetts, within the Savoy Mountain State Forest. The trailhead can be accessed via local roads, and signage may be limited, so using a GPS or map is recommended.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the trailhead, but spaces may be limited, especially during peak seasons.
Elevation
761 feet above sea level
Coordinates
42.668975° N, -72.205083° W
Land Management
Managed by UNK
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trail can be uneven and slippery, especially after rain. Bring insect repellent during warmer months and check weather conditions before heading out.
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With 1.5 miles and 200 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.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
Blooming Inn Shelburne Falls
Vikings Villages Resort
Riverside Hotel, an Ascend Collection Hotel
Old Mill 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 Campground
TULLY LAKE RECREATION AREA (MA)
1.8 miles away · 1 sites
Overview The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers invites you to come relax at Tully Lake. There are a variety of outdoor recreation activities for you and you family. Although the dam was built primarily to reduce flood damages on the Millers and Connecticut Rivers, the 1,300-acre reservoir area provides a place for you to get away from it all and connect with nature.Recreation Tully Lake offers many opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Activities in and around the lake include mountain biking, camping,
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other attractions in the Savoy Mountain State Forest include Tannery Falls and Borden Mountain. The area also offers camping and additional hiking trails.
Wildlife
The forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors may also encounter salamanders and other amphibians near the water.
Cities near Spirit Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Spirit Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
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