Massachusetts Outdoors

From the lush forested Berkshire Mountains to the dunes and bluffs of the Cape Cod National Seashore on the other, Massachusetts Outdoors has much diversity. History abounds in the state and can easily be added to a trip to the area. Many of Massachusetts early towns were founded by colonists from England between 1620 and 1640. Plymouth being among those was the second permanent English settlement in North America. The beginning of more then just settlements, Massachusetts was the beginning of the American Revolution and the independence of America from England, the temperance movement and abolitionist movement. The state is now one of the populated New England states.

On the west side of the state in the mountains, try snow-tubing at the Butternut Ski Area. As far as other winter sports, you have a wealth of ski resorts, areas for snowmobiling and even snowshoeing. During the summer, try one of the parks for a hike and some fishing. Noteworthy also is Hancock Shaker village a living history museum available for tours.

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution was founded in 1930 and is the world’s largest nonprofit oceanographic center. Visitors can dive in an interactive exhibit on whales and dolphins and go inside a full-sixed model of a deep-submersible craft called Alvin to watch video recording taken at deep-sea hydrothermal vents. In addition, the local town, Wood’s Hole, has some small galleries and a ferry service to Martha’s Vineyard.

While Massachusetts in general has more than 15000 miles of coastline, beautiful Cape Cod National Seashore lies to the east and has over 40 miles of sandy beaches, marshes and uplands to explore. Swim, hike or bike to your heart's content. http://www.visit-massachusetts.com/

National Parks, Areas and Sites

Adams National Historical Park - the Birthplaces of 2nd U.S. President John Adams and 6th U.S. President John Quincy Adams.
Appalachian National Scenic Trail - runs from Maine to Georgia.
Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor - contains thousands of natural and historic treasures.
Boston National Historical Park - site of the first major battle of the American Revolution.
Boston African American National Historic Site - the largest area of pre-Civil War black owned structures in the U.S.
Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area - explore tide pools, hike trails, camp or fish, picnic or swim.
Cape Cod National Seashore - Lighthouses, cultural landscapes,swimming beaches and walking and biking trails.
The Essex National Heritage Area - hundreds of historical sites.
John F. Kennedy National Historical Site - preserves the birthplace of America's 35th president.
Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site - Three hundred year old artifacts, waterwheels, and mill machinery. http://www.nps.gov/state/ma/