One distinguishing feature to the Berkshires from other parts of Massachusetts and New England is the abundance of fresh water bodies and waterways throughout the region.
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There is so much to explore and given the right equipment, many unforgettable adventures to be experienced. This opens the area to many recreation opportunities, some of which cannot be found for hundreds of miles away such as the white-water sections of the Deerfield River.
Many of the locals are tight-lipped about their favorite swim holes, but really there are no secrets for the adventurous spirit. Teenage memories are shaped in South County by escaping past the corn fields off of Route 23 into the meandering banks of the Green River. Local legends have even been known to snorkel down this entire river.
Seasonal and perpetual waterfalls dot the entire region. Perhaps the best swimming to be found is on one of the many clean and fresh lakes and ponds, such as Monterey’s Goose Pond or Stockbridge’s own Lake Mahkeenac, sometimes more conventionally referred to as the “Stockbridge Bowl.”
Kayaking Berkshires
Group Kayaking in the Berkshires
For the adventurous at heart, there are a number of very unique extreme water sports to be experienced, no matter whether you are a brand new novice or a seasoned expert. The region boasts everything from Class I (placid) on many of the rivers to Class IV-V (raging) rapids on the upper stretches of the Deerfield and the Bull’s Bridge section of the Housatonic.
A number of local outfitters offer lessons in kayaking and canoeing, where there are sit-on-top (Ducky) or enclosed kayak options. The most popular recreation preference on these rivers are the white-water rafting experiences where families or visiting groups are offered day-long adventures.
On the more placid stretches of river, you will often see visitors bobbing down the river on inflatable tubes, often with legs pointed upward and drinks in hand. If you are looking for one of the most laid-back approaches to exploring some scenic waterways of the Berkshires, tubing may be just your thing. You can add a snorkeling device the make it extra interesting.
White Water Rafting in the Berkshires
Most all of the many lakes and ponds in the region are excellent places to explore by boat or SUP (stand-up paddleboard). If you lack the equipment or do not wish to travel with it all, not to worry as there are a number of local outfitters who rent everything you might need. The most popular sites to explore are Lake Mahkeenac with views of Kripalu and the southern Berkshire Mountains as well as Laurel Lake.
