Explore Shelburne Falls, MA
Located in Franklin County, Massachusetts, Shelburne Falls is a charming small town with a population of just over 1,700 residents. Known for its picturesque scenery, thriving arts community, and family-friendly atmosphere, this town is an excellent place to bring up kids. Shelburne Falls boasts a strong educational system, making it an ideal place for families with children. The town is home to highly regarded public schools, such as Buckland-Shelburne Elementary School and Mohawk Trail Regional High School, which provide quality education and a supportive learning environment. Additionally, nearby colleges and universities, including the prestigious University of Massachusetts Amherst and Smith College, offer excellent educational opportunities for older students. When it comes to entertainment, Shelburne Falls offers a variety of options for kids of all ages. The town is famous for the Bridge of Flowers, a former trolley bridge converted into a vibrant garden featuring over 500 varieties of flowers. This unique attraction provides a beautiful setting for leisurely walks and family outings. The Shelburne Falls Trolley Museum is another popular destination, where kids can learn about the region's transportation history and even take a ride on a vintage trolley. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of activities to keep their kids engaged. The surrounding area offers numerous hiking trails, including the scenic Mohawk Trail State Forest, perfect for family hikes and picnics. The nearby Deerfield River provides opportunities for fishing, swimming, and kayaking during the summer months, while the Berkshire East Mountain Resort offers skiing and snowboarding in the winter. In addition to the educational and entertainment opportunities, Shelburne Falls has a tight-knit community that values family values and fosters a safe and welcoming environment for children. The town hosts several family-friendly events throughout the year, including farmers markets, art festivals, and holiday celebrations. Overall, Shelburne Falls is a wonderful place to raise kids, with its exceptional schools, enriching activities, and a supportive community that prioritizes the well-being and development of its younger residents.
Activities in Shelburne Falls
At Valley Play School in Shelburne Falls, little ones 15 months to 6 years old can get the perfect start to their education. With two programs—toddler and preschool—the Girls Club campus offers half, 2/3, and full day programs. Licensed by the Department of Early Education and currently in the process of reaccreditation by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), it’s a great place for children to explore, learn, and grow. Valley Play School provides toddlers and preschoolers in Shelburne Falls with a bright start to their education. With 15 months to 6 years old eligible for the two programs, the Girls Club campus offers half, 2/3, and full day programs. The Department of Early Education has licensed the school, and the school is working toward reaccreditation by the NAEYC. This is the perfect place for little ones to develop and grow. Young minds can flourish at the Valley Play School in Shelburne Falls. The Girls Club campus offers two programs for children aged 15 months to 6 years old, with half, 2/3, and full day options available. Thanks to the Department of Early Education’s licensing, and the school’s efforts to achieve reaccreditation by the NAEYC, children can learn and explore in a safe and supportive environment. It’s the perfect place for children to make the most of their early education.
Our founder, David Black, started the company in 1983 with a vision of providing quality outdoor adventure experiences for all ages. In 1989, he expanded operations to the Berkshires and opened the doors of Crab Apple Whitewater. Since then, we’ve become a family-run business, with David’s sons, Ken and Chris, joining the team. Our staff is comprised of experienced and passionate river guides, many of whom have been with us for years. Come meet our family and join us for an unforgettable whitewater experience!