Franklin County offers plenty of ways for families to enjoy winter during school vacation week, from days on the slopes to indoor play, skating, and quiet walks in the woods. 

Hit the slopes at Berkshire East

Berkshire East Mountain Resort in Charlemont remains one of the region’s go-to winter destinations, with multiple lifts and a variety [...]

On Saturday, September 6, 2025, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., the Great Falls Discovery Center will host a special family-friendly program led by wildlife ecologist Brad Timm, founder of the Northeast Wildlife [...]

Fun and Engaging Activities for February 2025 School Vacation Week in Franklin County, MA

February vacation week is the perfect time to explore, create, and enjoy quality time with family. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, creative workshops, or educational experiences, Franklin County, Massachusetts, has plenty to offer. Here [...]

Outdoor enthusiasts are in for a treat with the upcoming guided hike to the High Ledges, scheduled for Saturday, September 10, 2024. This experience promises breathtaking views and an opportunity to connect with nature, making it a perfect outing for individuals and families [...]

As winter rolls on, you might be feeling some cabin fever. Getting outside during winter and embracing the snow and the cold is a healthy and fun way to enjoy the winter months and cherish the stunning wintry scenery around Western [...]

The renowned Mohawk Trail State Forest is home to the tallest trees in New England, offering visitors the chance to marvel at its cherished towering white pine trees while gaining insight into their significance within the forest ecosystem and American [...]

Franklin County locals adore the natural beauty that surrounds them. There are so many incredible spots where you can fully embrace nature and soak in the breathtaking views of the valley. With plenty of hiking trails to choose from, you can get a fantastic workout while enjoying the great outdoors. Check out these beloved local hiking [...]

There are so many ways to enjoy winter in Franklin County, Massachusetts, with its multitude of conservation areas, state parks, ski areas, and state forests. Whether you love to downhill ski, cross country ski, snowshoe, ice skate, or just go for a scenic walk in the woods, you can find so many ways to relish the beauty of winter. Whereas [...]

You may have noticed while driving around Western Mass that the views are breathtakingly beautiful. In fact, these drives have special designations as Scenic Byways. Each one offers a chance to explore the most picturesque parts of our region, while also leading you to areas of arts and culture, agricultural and industrial heritage, natural [...]

Around Franklin County, you’ll find many old buildings, structures, and features which were built around the time of the Industrial Revolution and no longer serve a purpose. Rather than letting them sit and deteriorate, many of these outdated relics have been renovated and given a new purpose which serves the community in some way. One example of this is the Canalside Rail Trail, a little treasure in Turners Falls. 

Once a rail bed, which runs along the canal and the Connecticut River, the trail has been paved and made usable for walkers/joggers, cyclists, and other forms of human-powered wheels. The stretch of trail runs 3.7 miles with ample parking on both ends, at Unity Park in Turners Falls, and McClelland Farm Road in Deerfield. Along the way, you’ll cross the 1880 trestle bridge over the Connecticut River, from which you can gaze up and down the river and even see the mouth of the Deerfield River. You’ll also pass many serene rest stops with benches and picnic tables which offer stunning views of the river and the wildlife. Once you reach Turners Falls, you'll be riding alongside the canals and old factories (hence the name!) and eventually come to the fish ladder where you can get a close up view of the migrating fish. The Canalside Rail Trail has a lot to offer and I recommend riding it during different times of year to see the trail in all its forms! 

After the trail, be sure to check out the wonderful village of Turners Falls. There are some great eateries such as The Rendezvous, Five Eyed Fox, and Black Cow Burger Bar to name a few, and some great places to shop, like Tangible Bliss and LOOT Found + Made.

More information on the Canalside Rail Trail here.

Happy Trails! 

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