Bear's Den, Nature reserve in New Salem, Massachusetts
Bear's Den is a nature reserve in New Salem, Massachusetts, where the Middle Branch of the Swift River carves through granite cliffs. The water drops steeply in places and is surrounded by tall rock walls covered with hemlock forest.
The area served as a gathering place before becoming a protected reserve today. Long ago, water power from the falls was harnessed to run mills, whose remains can still be seen in the landscape.
Visitors experience this place as a wild pocket of nature where water carves through ancient rock. The steep sides and thick forest create a sense of separation from the outside world.
A short path takes visitors through the area to viewing points and the water below. The ground can be wet and slippery depending on the season and weather, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
Small caves hide within the granite cliffs, and one particular rock formation gives the place its name. This hidden feature rewards those who explore the rock walls more closely.
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