post-7983 thumbnail

Posted by Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism

It’s hardly a secret that western and central Massachusetts boast some of New England’s most spectacular scenery.
From lush greenery during summer to radiant crimson during fall, it’s an area splendid in beauty and visitor appeal. If you love the great outdoors, we offer some memorable ways to experience them here in Massachusetts
First, check out our video on Zoar Outdoor, Cornerstone Ranch, and Ramblewild, then read more about them and other outdoor adventures below.

Zoar Outdoor – If the Deerfield River area does represent something of a forgotten corner, as Zoar Director of Guided Programs Kevin McMillan says in the video, those who travel there will certainly remember it.
Zoar Outdoor

Zipping through the canopy at Zoar Outdoor by Mohawk Trail Association

Zoar Outdoor offers ziplining, kayaking, climbing and, of course, whitewater rafting, with varying skill levels for guests of different experience. After a full day, there are convenient lodging options on-site as well.
Cornerstone Ranch – There’s horseplay in the best kind of way at Cornerstone Ranch. In a quiet pocket of Princeton, horseback trail rides, along with sleigh and wagon rides, are all on tap.
Cornerstone Ranch

An equine friend at Cornerstone Ranch by Mary Connell via Facebook

To learn more about all the necessary details, including directions, just click here. Online bookings are encouraged, because that makes it easier for Cornerstone to keep the outings organized.
Ramblewild – Lanesborough, where the tallest peak in Massachusetts happens to be, is also home to Ramblewild, a tree-to-tree adventure park open daily through early September.
Ramblewild

On the ropes (in a good way) at Ramblewild

 Inside Ramblewild, eight aerial trails challenge guests with everything from rope ladders to suspended bridges to balancing logs. On the environmental front, the park is extremely sustainable, using neither screws nor nails to construct its courses.
Misty River Ballooning – While The Green River Festival, western Mass’s premier summer music festival, is well known for its majestic balloon rides, Misty River Ballooning in Florence can make that happen year round.
Misty River Ballooning

The view really is something

The tours set out from several locations within the Pioneer Valley, offering visitors a beautiful look at the Connecticut River and its surrounding area; on clear days, you can see three states. After landing, Misty River Ballooning helps you celebrate the experience with a traditional champagne toast and snack.
Ride Noho – Also based in Florence, Ride Noho is a terrific way for visitors to explore the local scenery in a special way. Ride Noho offers cycling excursions through Northampton and into several nearby towns. It has partnered with Hotel Northampton to provide accommodations after the trip.  For those of you escaping city life, Ride Noho has been described as therapy on wheels.
Ride Noho Inc

On the road with Ride Noho

For more adventuring ideas in Massachusetts, just click here. You can also learn more about central and western parts of the Commonwealth here and here.

TOPICS: , , ,