Explore Western Mass for Outdoor Recreation

Four-season outdoor recreation in Western Mass abounds, with options from rugged to relaxed. Whatever your pace, we’ve got the place!

Our region is a pedaler’s paradise, filled with dedicated bike riding trails and winding back roads. Cast across a classic trout stream, or hike through stunning fall foliage. The colder months shine brightly with snowshoeing, cross country and downhill skiing, and walking in a winter wonderland.

Thrill seekers, try out the adrenaline surge of whitewater rafting; there’s nothing like the roaring rush of the rapids! Check out  Crabapple WhitewaterBerkshire Whitewater and Zoar Outdoor.

For a more serene scenic experience on the water, consider a cruise on the Connecticut River aboard the stately Lady Bea. Canoes, kayaks and boats are rentable at some of our region’s state parks and recreation areas, or of course, you can launch your own.

Eager to get into the water? The Northeast’s largest water park Hurricane Harbor at Six Flags New England is made for you. This massive park also features scores of rides with energy levels suited for all ages.

Animal lovers will delight in discovering our two beautiful and educational zoos: Forest Park and Zoo in Springfield and Lupa Zoo in nearby Ludlow. At Lupa, hand-feeding the feeding animals is not only encouraged, the critters love it!

A pair of Western Massachusetts’ golf courses (Crumpin’ Fox and The Ranch Golf Club) rival many of the best layouts in New England, and dozens of excellent municipal and private links welcome visitors.

Crave outdoor variety? Berkshire East Mountain Resort and close-by Zoar Outdoor offer something everyone in your family will enjoy, from skiing to zipline canopy tours to the world’s longest mountain coaster.  Another multi-activity locale, Northfield Mountain Recreational Center, also operates in all seasons. Enjoy cycling, boating, fishing, paddle sports, and more in the warmer months, plus cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter.