Welcome to Trap Falls in Ashby, Massachusetts

Situated in a picturesque section of Willard Brook State Forest, Trap Falls is a beautiful waterfall with three side-by-side plunges that drop into a rocky pool and is easy to see in all seasons. The very short hike over the snow-covered path by the rushing brook leads to a small wooden footbridge with awesome views of this small, yet powerful waterfall.

Trap Falls can be seen in only a few minutes and when I visited in early January, the flow was strong due to the recent rain storms.

How to get to Trap Falls in Ashby, Massachusetts |

Plot Google Map directions to Trap Falls at 599 Main Street in West Townsend (bordering Ashby), Massachusetts here.

There is a small, dirt parking pull off with a yellow gate that has room for a few vehicles. After parking, go around the gate and hiking on the path into the forest. In winter, wear hiking boots with traction as sections of the path can be icy, and snow covers the roots by the trees lining the edge of the brook.

What to see at Trap Falls

As soon as you start on the path to Trap Falls, you’ll see the beautiful and impressive brook that the falls flow into. You can hike close to the edge if you like; simply stay to the right of the trees, and it’s easy to find spots to see the brook.

As you hike the short snowy path , you’ll see beautiful pines that provide a dense canopy to the fast flowing brook. The wooden footbridge is visible as you make your way by line of the trees to Trap Falls.

After a couple minutes, you’ll reach the footbridge to see the falls straight on. It’s sturdy, and you can set up a tripod for shots.

Even in winter surrounded by snow, the flow can be quite strong after rains. The snow-covered rocks add a beauty to the forest scenery.

Spring through fall, Trap Falls this is a great Central Massachusetts destination for family outings as there are picnic tables on both sides of the brook and a few grills. In summer, you’ll may find visitors in the brook.

You can climb up the big rocks for a view by the top of the falls (don’t advise doing this in winter), and dogs on leash are welcome. The footbridge offers a panoramic view of the falls and the surrounding forest canopy; I love hanging out for a bit and watching Trap Falls plunge into the brook and flow down the stream.

Tip: If you cross MA-119 to the campground entrance, you can see a small covered bridge.

Have you visited Trap Falls? What’s your favorite Massachusetts or New England waterfall?

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