There are some really interesting and unique rock formations in Massachusetts. The state is known for its long past and coastal charm. Here are 12 amazing geological sights you must see in the Bay State, from famous rocks to strange landscapes shaped by glaciers:
1. Pittsfield State Forest’s Balance Rock
Pittsfield State Forest is where this is located.
Features: A big boulder perched dangerously on a smaller rock, which is thought to have been left behind by glaciers that are melting.
Hike: This natural wonder is right at the end of a short, easy walk.
2. The Chasm of Purgatory, Sutton
Purgatory Chasm State Reservation is in Sutton.
A deep, rough gorge with caves and tall rock walls that was formed during the last ice age.
Hike: The Purgatory Loop Trail is a simple one-mile hike with great views and fun rock climbing spots.
3. Rock formations on Singing Beach in Manchester-by-the-Sea
Singing Beach is in Manchester-by-the-Sea.Sea
There are interesting rock shapes all along the shore, and the sand that “sings” under your feet adds to the beauty.
Hike: Come here on a hike and take a walk along the beach to enjoy the sights and sounds.
4. Profile Rock is in the Freetown-Fall River State Forest.
The Freetown-Fall River State Forest is in Freetown.
A rock face that looks like a profile of a person is linked to Wampanoag tales.
In order to get to this natural and cultural site, you need to take a short hike through the forest.
5. The Babson Boulder Trail in Dogtown, Gloucester
Place: Gloucester’s Dogtown Commons
Features: A group of glacial erratics with motivational sayings are spread out in the old colonial town of Dogtown that has been abandoned.
Hike: Follow the 3-mile loop to find these interesting and important rocks.
6. Marblehead and Castle Rock
Where: Marblehead Neck, Marblehead
It has a rock outcropping that gives you a wide view of the Atlantic Ocean.
Hike: This beautiful lookout point is just a short walk away.
7. Ice craters, Shelburne Falls
Shelburne Falls and the Deerfield River
Features: A group of naturally formed potholes in the riverbank that were made by glacial meltwater many, many years ago.
Hike: This beautiful nature site is just a short walk from the center of Shelburne Falls.
8. Dinosaur Tracks, Holyoke
The Dinosaur Footprints Reservation is in Holyoke.
Features: Tracks made by dinosaurs that lived in the area more than 200 million years ago that have been preserved in rock.
Hike: To get to the footprint spot, take a short, flat trail.
9. Boulder Field, Blue Hills State Park
Place: Milton’s Blue Hills Reservation
Features: A field of glacial erratics spread out across the land, great for climbing and exploring.
Hike: To see these interesting rocks, pick one of the many Blue Hills hikes.
10. Doane’s Falls, North Royalston
Doane’s Falls is in Royalston.
Features: a group of waterfalls that flow over rough rock forms, making for beautiful and peaceful views.
Hike: The 1.5-mile loop walk is a great way to get to the falls and the rocks around them.
11. Rocks in Rockport at Halibut Point
Halibut Point State Park in Rockport is the place.
It has a granite quarry that was turned into a coastal park with beautiful views of the ocean and interesting rock forms.
Hike: To get a better look at the rocks and history, take the Quarry Loop Trail.
12. Hill Wompatuck, Hingham
Where: Hingham’s Wompatuck State Park
There is a huge glacial erratic in the middle of the forest that gives you a look into the natural history of the area.
Hike: There are many trails in the park that will take you to the rock.
These rock formations in Massachusetts are beautiful, have interesting histories, and are great for outdoor activities. These places are worth the trip whether you want to hike, scramble, or just be amazed by how creative nature is!
