For a small village just off the Mohawk Trail in western Massachusetts, Shelburne Falls packs lots in a little space. From a natural wonder and a reclaimed trolley bridge, to restaurants, a brewery, and even candlepin bowling, Shelburne Falls is a can’t miss visit!
Bridge of Flowers
Shelburne Falls is actually located in two different Massachusetts towns: Shelburne and Buckland. The village is best known for its Bridge of Flowers. The Deerfield River bisects Shelburne Falls. Somewhat parallel to the road over the river is a former trolley bridge circa 1908. Every spring the bridge blooms ablaze with an amazing array of flora. The dazzling display continues through the warmer months. This link will describe what is currently in bloom.
It is lovingly tended by the Bridge of Flowers Committee. (They are always looking for volunteers!) The endeavor began by a project from the Shelburne Falls Area Women’s Club way back in 1929. The best way to view the Bridge of Flowers is on foot, walking over the river on the former trolley bed which is literally covered with flowers. Make sure to check out the view of the bridge from Bridge Street (clever name!) The foliage overhangs the railings of the bridge from this angle.
Glacial Potholes
Shelburne Falls’s other claim to fame is the series of glacial potholes bored into the rocks at the site of the Salmon Falls on the Deerfield River. The granite rock once covered by glacier was left with circular holes made by whirlpooling water. There is more science certainly behind this, but that’s it in a nutshell… or a pothole. The rocks with the pothole pockmarks are at the base of the Salmon Falls. The rock striations look beautiful, almost reminiscent of marble. Depending on the flow of the falls and the season, your experience here may look drastically different. It’s beautiful in every season. Whether it’s winter, summer, spring, or fall, each offers a distinct look to the falls.
A sign on Deerfield Avenue includes information about Salmon Falls and the potholes. According to the sign, the potholes number 50 with size range between half a foot and 39 feet, the largest such pothole in the world. At one time, the public could climb down and maneuver around on the rocks. Visitors can no longer do this.
Make a Day of it
The Bridge of Flowers and the Glacial Potholes are two of the most popular sites of Shelburne Falls. Also here though is the Shelburne Falls Trolley Museum, located just up the street on the Buckland side. Floodwater Brewery is also on the Buckland side, on the banks of the river. There are bookstores to visit, and cafes and diners to eat at. There is also the second oldest bowling alley in the United States, the Shelburne Falls Bowling Alley, featuring candlepin bowling. Right across from the Salmon Falls viewing area are a series of very inviting storefronts including Cork, a wine store, Shelburne Falls Booksellers, Enjoy, a clothing store, and the bakery Baked.
Shelburne Falls has this timeless vibe. It has an old fashioned, small downtown feel of simpler times. At the same time though, it has a progressive Massachusetts air to it with its bookstores and delightful eating establishments. Basically, it’s the perfect backyard road trip for everyone.
Visitor Info
Shelburne Falls is located off of the Mohawk Trail (Route 2) a bit west of Greenfield. With close proximity to I-91, it’s an easy visit and looks beautiful in the autumn. Want to add another brewery to your trip? Check out Brick & Feather Brewery located nearby in Turners Falls.
