Heath MassachusettsATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Heath, Massachusetts.
1. Heath Agricultural Society Fair
HISTORIC ANNUAL COUNTRY FAIR
The Heath Agricultural Society Fair is held each year in August at the Heath Fairgrounds on Colrain Stage Road. The fair features a chicken barbeque, animal events, horse and oxen draws, live music, arts and crafts, needlework, baked goods, flowers, and fireworks. It represents a true agricultural fair tradition and offers fun for visitors of all ages.
2. Burnt Hill
SCENIC BLUEBERRY PICKING VISTA
Burnt Hill is a scenic vista in Heath featuring two wild blueberry farms where visitors can pick their own blueberries in summer. The hill represents one of the highest points in the area, offering beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. This natural attraction combines outdoor recreation with the opportunity to harvest fresh, local produce.
3. Heath Historical Society
LOCAL HERITAGE MUSEUM
The Heath Historical Society is located in two historic buildings in the center of town: the old townhouse and the old schoolhouse. The exhibits represent a broad range of Heath's past and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the museum by appointment to learn about the town's history since its incorporation in 1785.
4. A.L. Avery & Son General Store
CLASSIC COUNTRY STORE
A.L. Avery & Son General Store is a traditional country store serving the Heath community. The store offers a variety of goods and serves as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. This establishment represents the small-town charm and community-centered lifestyle that defines Heath.
5. Hail to the Sunrise / Mohawk Park
NATIVE AMERICAN MEMORIAL
Hail to the Sunrise is a monument and park honoring the Native American heritage of the region. The bronze statue depicts a Mohawk man with his arms raised to greet the sunrise, standing as a tribute to the indigenous peoples of the area. The peaceful park setting provides a place for reflection and appreciation of the region's original inhabitants.
6. Mohawk Trail State Forest
ANCIENT FOREST WILDERNESS
Mohawk Trail State Forest offers 6,000 acres of old-growth forest and recreational opportunities near Heath. Visitors can enjoy camping, hiking, fishing, and swimming in this pristine natural environment. The forest is home to some of the tallest trees in New England and provides a glimpse into the region's pre-colonial landscape.
7. Hicks Family Farm Corn Maze
AGRICULTURAL FAMILY FUN
Hicks Family Farm Corn Maze offers a seasonal agricultural attraction that delights visitors of all ages. The intricately designed maze challenges participants to navigate through acres of corn while enjoying farm-fresh air and countryside views. Additional farm activities and treats make this a perfect autumn destination for families.
8. Berkshire East Mountain Resort
FOUR-SEASON OUTDOOR ADVENTURE
Berkshire East Mountain Resort is a four-season recreational destination located near Heath offering skiing, mountain biking, zip-lining, and more. In winter, visitors enjoy downhill skiing and snowboarding on varied terrain suitable for all skill levels. During warmer months, the resort transforms to offer mountain biking trails, canopy tours, and whitewater rafting adventures on the nearby Deerfield River.
9. Zoar Outdoor Adventure Resort
WHITEWATER RAFTING HEADQUARTERS
Zoar Outdoor Adventure Resort offers thrilling whitewater rafting experiences on the Deerfield River near Heath. The resort provides professional guides, equipment, and training for adventures ranging from gentle family floats to challenging Class IV rapids. Beyond rafting, visitors can enjoy zip-lining, kayaking, and rock climbing for a complete outdoor adventure experience.
10. Crab Apple Whitewater
PREMIER RIVER ADVENTURES
Crab Apple Whitewater is a family-owned rafting outfitter offering guided river adventures in the Heath area. Their professional guides lead expeditions on the Deerfield River, providing all necessary equipment and safety instruction. The company offers various trip options to accommodate different ages, experience levels, and adventure appetites.
11. Shelburne Falls Bridge of Flowers
BLOOMING HISTORIC BRIDGE
The Bridge of Flowers is a unique pedestrian bridge transformed into a magnificent linear garden spanning the Deerfield River. Originally built in 1908 as a trolley bridge, it was converted into a garden walkway in 1929 when volunteers planted flowers along its 400-foot span. Today, the bridge showcases over 500 varieties of annuals and perennials from April through October, attracting thousands of visitors annually.
12. Glacial Potholes
ANCIENT GEOLOGICAL WONDER
The Glacial Potholes in Shelburne Falls feature more than 50 naturally carved circular depressions in the bedrock of the Deerfield River. These geological formations were created over 14,000 years ago by the erosive action of swirling water and stones during the retreat of glaciers. Visitors can view these impressive natural sculptures from an observation platform, witnessing one of the largest concentrations of such formations in the country.
13. Gould's Sugar House
AUTHENTIC MAPLE EXPERIENCE
Gould's Sugar House is a beloved family-owned maple syrup producer and restaurant near Heath. Visitors can observe the maple sugaring process during the spring season and enjoy delicious maple products year-round. The restaurant serves hearty country breakfasts and lunches featuring their signature maple syrup, drawing crowds from across New England.
14. High Ledges Wildlife Sanctuary
PANORAMIC MOUNTAIN VIEWS
High Ledges Wildlife Sanctuary offers spectacular panoramic views of the Deerfield River Valley and the Berkshire Mountains. The sanctuary features diverse hiking trails through 586 acres of forest and meadows rich with wildflowers and wildlife. Spring visitors are treated to an impressive display of rare wildflowers, while the autumn foliage provides a stunning backdrop for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
15. Bardwell's Ferry Bridge
HISTORIC ENGINEERING MARVEL
Bardwell's Ferry Bridge is a historic lenticular truss bridge spanning the Deerfield River between Shelburne and Conway. Built in 1882, this single-lane iron bridge is one of the few remaining examples of this distinctive engineering style in New England. The picturesque setting makes it popular with photographers and history buffs seeking to experience the region's transportation heritage.