Bash Bish Falls

Bash Bish Falls is a waterfall in southwestern Massachusetts, in the Taconic Mountains. They are the state's highest waterfall. The falls are made up of a series of cascades, nearly 200 feet in total, with the final cascade being split into twin falls by a jutting rock, dropping in an 80-foot "V" over boulders to a serene pool below.

The waters of Bash Bish Falls begin at a spring in Mount Washington and after the falls, Bash Bish Brook continues on a gentler course through New York State until joining the Hudson River. The waterfall is at the mouth of a gorge formed during the last ice age. At the rear of the gorge (opposite the waterfall) is a 194 ft. sheer rock wall.

More than 25 deaths have occurred at this area in the past century (some due to drowning, but most due to rock climbing/rock jumping). This is a very dangerous area in the summer months; pools are shallow, and swimming is not allowed.

There are two access points for viewing Bash Bish Falls, both on Route 41 in Egremont, Massachusetts. There are both upper and lower access points with views of the falls on the road.

ummit

From the top of the waterfalls, known as the "Summit," one has a clear view across Massachusetts into New York State. Recently the Park Service installed railings to prevent falls, which have been common from that location.

Links

Bash Bish Falls State Park [http://www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/western/bash.htm]

[http://sighclub.com/2005/07/24/bash-bish-falls-a-photo-essay/ Bash Bish Falls Photo Essay]