Tannery Falls
Experience the breathtaking 80-foot Tannery Falls and its companion, Parker Brook Falls, on a scenic loop trail in Savoy, MA.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Water flow is strong
Tannery Falls
Best Time
Water flow is strong
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the breathtaking 80-foot Tannery Falls and its companion, Parker Brook Falls, on a scenic loop trail in Savoy, MA.
"Stupendous and very happy I finally got to see this!!"
🥾 Wear Proper Footwear
Sturdy hiking boots are essential for the steep and potentially slippery trail. Hiking sticks are also recommended!
🗺️ Trailhead Difficulty
The trailhead can be hard to find, located down a dirt road. Parking may be limited or unavailable near the stairs.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tannery Falls
Savoy Mountain State Forest
An impressive 80-foot waterfall with multiple plunges and horsetail drops, offering a stunning natural spectacle.
Ross Brook Falls
Adjacent to Tannery Falls
A beautiful waterfall accessible via the same loop trail as Tannery Falls, offering a double waterfall experience.
Parker Brook Falls
Adjacent to Tannery Falls
The second waterfall on the loop trail, providing a complete waterfall viewing experience in one hike.
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Planning Your Visit
Accessing Tannery Falls
Best Footwear and Gear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Proper Footwear
Sturdy hiking boots are essential for the steep and potentially slippery trail. Hiking sticks are also recommended!
🗺️ Trailhead Difficulty
The trailhead can be hard to find, located down a dirt road. Parking may be limited or unavailable near the stairs.
📸 Capture Both Falls
The loop trail leads to both Tannery Falls and Parker Brook Falls, offering a double waterfall experience.
👨👩👧 Kid-Friendly Option
Considered very kid-friendly by some, making it a great spot for families. Waterproof sandals are useful for kids.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Proper Footwear
Sturdy hiking boots are essential for the steep and potentially slippery trail. Hiking sticks are also recommended!
🗺️ Trailhead Difficulty
The trailhead can be hard to find, located down a dirt road. Parking may be limited or unavailable near the stairs.
📸 Capture Both Falls
The loop trail leads to both Tannery Falls and Parker Brook Falls, offering a double waterfall experience.
👨👩👧 Kid-Friendly Option
Considered very kid-friendly by some, making it a great spot for families. Waterproof sandals are useful for kids.
💧 Cool Off in Summer
On hot summer days, dipping your feet in the water can provide instant relief from the heat.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning beauty of Tannery Falls and the bonus of seeing Parker Brook Falls on the same trail. While the hike can be steep and the trailhead access has changed, the 'wow-worthy' payoff is consistently praised. Some note the community's efforts to 'gate-keep' access, but most agree the effort is worth the spectacular views.
"I tried droning it from the neighborhood but there isn't anything in any of the canopy openings. Not fair something so beautiful is closed off."
Monika Norcross
"Closed from the main trailhead because of the locals. The only way to get there now is via the north country trail by the Munising Falls located behind the admissions building and the shop. To be completely honest it doesn’t look like the pictures from the bottom and it is a bummer that it is gate-keeped by the community."
David C
"Very gorgeous waterfalls not too hard of a track in the winter time"
Mr Bowen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead is located down a dirt road off Tannery Road in Savoy, MA. Some visitors report that parking directly at the stairs is no longer available, requiring a hike from a further parking area.
While you can drive to the general area, the final approach to the falls involves a hike. The road leading to the trailhead can be unpaved and rough in sections.
The most common approach is via the loop trail from the trailhead. Some reviews mention accessing it via the North Country Trail from Munising Falls, though this may offer a different perspective.
Recent reviews suggest that parking directly at the stairs is no longer an option. You may need to park further away and hike in, which can add to the overall experience.
Using GPS can help you get to the vicinity, but be prepared for unpaved roads and potentially limited signage. It's advisable to have a map or download offline directions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tannery Falls is located within Savoy Mountain State Forest, which generally does not require an entrance fee for day use. However, it's always a good idea to check the official state forest website for any updates or specific regulations.
Typically, there are no admission fees for Tannery Falls itself. Parking within the state forest is usually free for day visitors.
State forests are generally open from dawn to dusk. However, it's best to confirm specific hours for Savoy Mountain State Forest if you plan to visit very early or late.
There is no dedicated visitor center at Tannery Falls. Information is usually available at the entrance to Savoy Mountain State Forest or through signage along the trails.
Tannery Falls is a natural attraction best explored independently. There are no organized tours typically offered for this specific location.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The loop trail to Tannery Falls and Parker Brook Falls is approximately 0.5 miles. However, the trail can be steep and challenging in parts.
The hike is generally considered moderate due to its steepness and potentially uneven terrain. Some sections can be precarious, especially after rain.
While some visitors have dipped their feet in the water to cool off, swimming directly at the falls may not be advisable or safe due to strong currents and slippery rocks.
Many find it very kid-friendly, but caution is advised due to the steep trail and proximity to water. Waterproof sandals are recommended for children.
Bring sturdy hiking shoes, water, snacks, and consider hiking sticks for stability. A camera is a must for capturing the beautiful scenery.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light. Consider visiting after rain for a more powerful waterfall flow, but be mindful of trail conditions.
One reviewer mentioned not being able to drone due to canopy openings, suggesting drone use might be restricted or difficult. It's best to check local regulations for drone operation in state forests.
You can capture wide shots of the falls, close-ups of the water flow, and the surrounding forest. The loop trail allows for varied perspectives of both Tannery and Parker Brook Falls.
Some descriptions mention the ability to stand behind the waterfall, offering a unique photographic opportunity.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the falls. A tripod can help with long exposures to smooth out the water. Consider a waterproof bag for your gear.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's recommended to bring waterproof sandals for the kids if they plan on playing in the water, and sturdy shoes for everyone to navigate the trail safely. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy amidst the natural beauty. While the hike is short, the terrain can be uneven, so keeping a close eye on younger children is advised. The opportunity to get close to the falls and feel the spray can be an exciting experience for kids, creating lasting memories.
🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers
Be prepared for the possibility of having the trail to yourself, especially if you visit during off-peak times or on weekdays. This solitude can enhance the experience, allowing for quiet contemplation and appreciation of the natural surroundings.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Consider visiting after a good rain to capture the falls at their most powerful, but be mindful of the slippery conditions. While drone photography might be challenging due to tree cover, ground-level shots can be stunning. A wide-angle lens will help capture the grandeur of the falls, and a tripod can be useful for long exposures to create a silky water effect.
Remember to protect your gear from the mist and spray. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails to Tannery Falls
Some reviews mention that the trail can be precarious in spots, with the ground giving way, emphasizing the need for caution and appropriate footwear. Recent information suggests that the direct parking access to the stairs might be closed, meaning hikers may need to park further away and walk in. This can extend the overall time and effort required for the visit. Despite these challenges, the reward is significant, with the trail leading to not one, but two beautiful waterfalls: Tannery Falls and Parker Brook Falls.
For those planning their visit, it's highly recommended to wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots and consider bringing hiking sticks for added stability. Waterproof sandals are also a good option if you plan on getting close to the water or if you're visiting with children who might want to splash around.
The Majesty of Tannery Falls and its Surroundings
Its impressive height and the way the water cascades down the rock face make it a captivating natural wonder. The falls are situated within the scenic Savoy Mountain State Forest, offering a beautiful natural setting for visitors. Adding to the allure, the loop trail also leads to Parker Brook Falls, meaning you can experience two distinct waterfalls on a single hike.
This makes Tannery Falls a fantastic destination for those who want to maximize their waterfall viewing experience in a relatively short trek. The surrounding forest provides a lush backdrop, enhancing the overall natural beauty of the area. During warmer months, the water at the base of the falls can offer a refreshing respite from the heat.
However, visitors should always exercise caution when near the water, as the rocks can be slippery and the currents unpredictable. The combination of the impressive falls and the accessible trail makes Tannery Falls a popular spot for hikers and nature enthusiasts in Western Massachusetts. 
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