Craving mountain views, river thrills, and small-town charm in Western Mass? Head to Charlemont! Nestled in the scenic Berkshire foothills along the Deerfield River, Charlemont is an outdoor lover’s dream—perfect for rafting, ziplining, skiing, and hiking. Whether you're chasing fall foliage, whitewater rapids, or quiet forest trails, Charlemont delivers four-season adventure and rustic relaxation.
Charlemont, MA Highlights:
- For Thrill Seekers: Whitewater raft the Deerfield River – Choose from Class I to Class IV rapids with several top-notch outfitters.
- For Outdoor Explorers: Hike to Shelburne Fire Tower – Trek to this scenic lookout for sweeping views of the Mohawk Trail and beyond.
- For Families: Ride the Mountain Coaster at Berkshire East – Twist through the forest on a gravity-powered alpine coaster fun for all ages.
- For Winter Sports Fans: Ski or snowboard at Berkshire East – Enjoy downhill thrills with trails for all skill levels and night skiing options.
- For Zipliners: Soar through the trees at Zoar Outdoor or Berkshire East Canopy Tours – Experience adrenaline and treetop views on one of New England’s best zipline courses.
Best Time to Visit Charlemont, MA
The best time to visit Charlemont is in the summer for river sports and hiking, the fall for stunning foliage, and the winter for skiing and snowboarding. Spring is quieter but ideal for fishing and wildflower hikes.
How to Get to Charlemont, MA
- If you are traveling by car: Located along the Mohawk Trail (Route 2), Charlemont is about 2.5 hours from Boston and 1.5 hours from Albany.
- By Train: The nearest Amtrak station is in Greenfield (about 30 minutes east), with rental car or rideshare options from there.
- By Air: Bradley International Airport (CT) and Albany International Airport (NY) are both within a 1.5-hour drive.
Where to Stay in Charlemont, MA
- Recommended for Families: Berkshire East Lodge – Ski-in/ski-out convenience, mountain views, and proximity to adventure activities.
- For Couples: Warfield House Inn – Cozy country inn atop a hill with breathtaking views of the Deerfield River Valley.
- For Rustic Vibes: Zoar Outdoor Cabins and Lodging – Stay on-site after rafting or ziplining for a true back-to-nature retreat.
Best Things to Do in Charlemont, MA
⮕ For hikers: Mohawk Trail State Forest
Hike wooded trails and admire fall colors in this peaceful, affordable Massachusetts retreat.
Over 6,000 acres, Mohawk Trail State Forest offers camping from May to October. For those interested, there are both campsites and cabins available for camping. Onsite restrooms and picnic areas can be found throughout the park. For those interested in a day trip, picnic tables, grills, and pavilions are available for use. When you’re ready to get active, consider one of the hiking trails found throughout the park. Rivers and streams in the area provide ample trout fishing, swimming, and canoeing opportunities. Be sure to enjoy the hikes while taking in the scenic surroundings and wildlife.
Cold River Road, Charlemont, MA 01339, Phone: 413-339-5504
⮕ For adventure seekers: Berkshire East Mountain Resort
Ski snowy slopes or zipline in summer on an exciting family mountain trip.
When you’re looking for a quick – or lengthy – getaway, the Berkshire East Mountain Resort offers many awesome opportunities for outdoor activities in the beautiful Berkshire Mountains. This full resort not only offers lodging but also activities no matter the weather. In the winter months, enjoy snow tubing, skiing, and racing. In the warmer months, you can go white water rafting on the Deerfield River, check out the Aerial ropes course, zip lining, or the mountain coaster. The mountain coaster allows you to select your speed with on-cart hand breaks. This is perfect for adults and older kids who want to take on the adventure with a little one over the age of three.
66 Thunder Mountain Road, Charlemont, MA 01339, Phone: 413-339-6617
Attractions for Couples
⮕ For kayakers and anglers: Deerfield River
Go whitewater rafting or enjoy a romantic paddle along this scenic, winding river.
Perhaps the most famous river in Charlemont, Deerfield River is the location for many tourists and locals looking to get some water activities going. This river is 76 miles long from Vermont through Massachusetts. Because of the dams in the surrounding area, this is a slower moving river that has perfect spots for swimming and fishing. Many visitors enjoy tubbing on the river, and whitewater kayaking in rougher areas. A visit to Charlemont would not be complete without spending a little time at Deerfield River, enjoying a picnic or the wildlife.
⮕ For photographers: Bissell Bridge
Walk along this historic covered bridge and snap photos during your quick stop.
Bissell Bridge is a covered bridge that runs over Mill Brook. The slow-moving water beneath the bridge comes from a nearby waterfall. Though the bridge has been closed down for rehabilitation, this is not the original covered bridge that stood here. AS the first covered bridge in America during the 20th Century, this bridge is now part of the National Registry of Historic Places. Visitors to the area will want to see the former glory of the era of covered bridges. Walk through the bridge and gaze down into the waters through one of the open windows. While you’re here, consider the short trip to the Henry W. Bissell house.
39 N Heath Road, Charlemont, MA 01339
⮕ For cultural travelers: Hail to the Sunrise/ Mohawk Park
Look at the bronze statue and reflect during a quiet weekend drive.
No visit is complete to a town without seeing all of the sites and monuments of the area. The Hail to the Sunrise monument in Mohawk Park is one of these sites. This monument is dedicated to the Mohawk tribes of Massachusetts and New York as a reminder of the beautiful heritage and aid they provided during settlement. Visitors are greeted by an Indian chief with his arms raised high to the sky welcoming the sunrise. A reflecting pool that sits by is circled by stones from over 100 Native American tribes. Visitors can purchase a mini-monument to take home.
Hail to the Sunrise/ Mohawk Park, 512 Mohawk Trail, Charlemont, MA 01339
Unique Adventures
⮕ For thrill-seekers: Crab Apple Whitewater
Ride thrilling rapids and savor a fun, unusual outdoor summer adventure.
With locations across three states, Crab Apple Whitewater provides excellent training and experiences for whitewater rafting. Three generations have owned Crab Apple and have expanded their business from Maine through Vermont and into Massachusetts. The MA-branch is located on Deerfield River and offers three rafting options: Bridge Section Rafting, Funyaks, and Family Raft Trip. At eight miles long, the half-day family raft trip is best for those with children or who are less experienced. No matter your experience level, there is no need to worry, Crab Apple provides all equipment and training.
2056 Mohawk Trail, Charlemont, MA 01339, Phone: 800-553-7238
⮕ For outdoor enthusiasts: Zoar Outdoor/Deerfield Valley Canopy Tours
Zip through treetops and explore forest views on this exciting trip for couples.
A trip to the Berkshires is truly about enjoying the outdoors, no matter the season. With Zoar Outdoor/Deerfield Valley Canopy Tours, guests have the chance to try their hand at several activities they may not get to at home. While lodging is available on site, it’s the activities that will really get your blood pumping. Consider whitewater rafting on Deerfield River or try a slower paced water sport, like paddle boarding. If you want to stay dry, try your hand at the Canopy Tour, which is a 3-hour treetop adventure that includes 11 zip lines and three rappels.
7 Main Street, Charlemont, MA 01339, Phone: 800-532-7483
Where to Eat in Charlemont, MA
- Recommended for Families: Cold River Cafe & Restaurant – Friendly, casual spot offering hearty breakfasts, burgers, and homemade pies.
- For Local Flavor: Trail Head Tavern – Laid-back mountain pub with craft brews and comfort food, perfect after an adventure.
- For a Quick Bite: Mohawk Park Campground Snack Bar – Grab hot dogs, fries, and ice cream near the Deerfield River in warmer months.
If you are interested in local events:
- For Fall Fans: Charlemont Foliage Festival (October) – Celebrate peak color with crafts, food, and family fun on the Mohawk Trail.
- For Winter Thrills: Berkshire East Race Events (January–March) – Cheer on local skiers or join fun races at this lively mountain resort.
- For Music & Community: Hilltown Summer Concerts (various dates) – Enjoy live music in nearby hilltowns with mountain backdrops.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30 Minutes of Charlemont, MA:
- For Art Lovers: MASS MoCA (North Adams) (25 min) – Explore contemporary art in a sprawling converted factory campus.
- For Waterfall Seekers: Tannery Falls (20–25 min) – Hike to a beautiful and secluded waterfall near Savoy Mountain State Forest.
- For History Buffs: Bridge of Flowers in Shelburne Falls (15 min) – Walk a former trolley bridge now blooming with seasonal flowers.
- For Scenic Drives: Mohawk Trail Scenic Byway – Cruise one of the oldest scenic routes in New England with mountain views and overlooks.
- For Gardeners: Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory (30 min) – A year-round tropical garden filled with butterflies in South Deerfield.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Where is Charlemont located?
- As part of the Springfield, MA area, Charlemont is a small town nestled in the Berkshire Mountains.
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What makes Charlemont unique?
- With only about 1,266 people, this small town truly embodies the mountain life.
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What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy in Charlemont?
- Outdoor activities are key for this rustic area, especially whitewater rafting, camping, and hiking.
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What attractions should visitors check out in Charlemont?
- If you’d like to spend some time in Charlemont, be sure to check out the local parks and ski resorts in the area.
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What seasonal activities are available in Charlemont?
- No matter the season, Charlemont has you covered with outdoor sports and family activities.
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