It's been such a hot summer who doesn't want to visit the coolest spot in the 413 -- The Granville Gorge. The gorge is located on Route 57 in Southwick, MA as you approach the Granville town line. It's a great spot for families with bigger kids to explore and cool off during the summer months but especially during this strange summer of social distancing.
Once you pull in the gravel drive, find a spot to park around the circular lot and follow a trail down into the gorge or just freestyle it down the ravine.
Even though I've been visiting here since I was knee high to a grasshopper, I actually wouldn't recommend this gorgeous spot for littles. The rocks are extremely slippery and it is a very steep slope down into the gorge. I mean, the definition of gorge is a narrow valley with steep, rocky walls. That screams big kid adventure.
Unfortunately, there is often some broken glass scattered around the parking lot, trail and banks left behind by asshats who can't respect themselves nevermind Mother Nature. So it's important to wear real shoes to visit here -- not flip flops.
No matter what age you are when you visit, wear the swimsuit or bring a change of clothes. The water is too inviting and I've already warned you about the slippery rocks. I'm not a water shoe type of girl, but if you have them, bring them here.
There are plenty of shallow pools where you can relax and let the kids play and explore. There are lots of water skimmers, tiny fish, and newts to find here. Bring your nets to catch and release the many nature friends to be discovered.
In these times of social distancing it's important to note that this is always a popular spot in the summer. The main swimming hole is usually busy. But there are lots of other spots you can chose to cool off in. Just continue along the banks until you find a quiet spot of your own. Or visit later in the day around dinner time. We've had good luck this summer finding a socially distanced spot later in the afternoon.
The Gorge is located on Granville Road (Route 57) in Southwick, MA. There is no charge to visit, hours are posted as 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. There are no facilities at this property -- use the bathroom at home before you trek out.
It really is one of the coolest spots in the area -- you can literally feel the temperature cooling as you descend down into the gorge and feel the heat rising as you make your way back out.
I can't give you an exact address to load in the GPS but look for this sign:
Things to bring: real shoes (not flip flops), towels, and a bathing suit or change of clothes for anyone who likes to explore. Follow the gravel road to the parking area and hike down to the water. Enjoy!
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