The West Branch of the Westfield River is one of the best early-spring Class IV runs in New England. The valley from Becket to Chester is isolated, marked only with beautiful stone-arch railroad bridges and the bridge at Bancroft. This route features three stunning granite railroad bridges which span the river high above as you challenge the rapids below. There are a few tricky waves to maneuver including a double ledge in the gorge. Take-out is a mile below Chester Center at a roadside pullout on MA 20.