The shift in temperature signals the start of fall, arguably Massachusetts’ most beautiful season. The Commonwealth comes alive with vibrant foliage, crisp air, and the leaf-peeping begins!
There are so many places to observe foliage in Massachusetts. From Western Massachusetts to the Cape and Islands, brilliant golds and rich reds set the landscape ablaze. Driving, cycling, and hiking are the best ways to experience this incredible natural phenomenon and below are some ideas of where to see the most spectacular foliage.
Driving Routes
To cover some ground on your fall foliage adventure, hop in the car, put on some tunes, and watch the trees whir by in a kaleidoscope of colour. Here are some of the most stunning driving routes to explore (but don’t be afraid to go off the beaten path, too).
- Mohawk Trail – Welcome to “up-country”, where the views include the spectacular summit of Mt. Greylock and the enchanting Bridge of Flowers.
- The Cranberry Course – The colourful leaves are complemented by cranberry bogs flooded with pools of crimson berries.
- By Land & By Sea – Charming country roads weave through picture-perfect New England towns, right up to the seaside.
- Quabbin Reservoir Run – Enjoy the road less traveled with a sweeping view of the countryside along the “unnumbered road.”
- The Southern Pass – As if the leaves weren’t an amazing enough sight, take in the vibrant history of this area, including Battleship Cove
- Beauty & The Berkshires – You’ll see how this route earned its name as you pass through this Rockwell painting brought to life.Hiking, Biking & Scenic Trails – From cycling trails to panoramic lookouts, leisurely strolls to heart-pumping hikes, we’ve got the leaf-peeping bases covered.
- Charming Stroll – Saunter down Old Main Street in Historic Deerfield where natural beauty, rich history, and culture collide.
- Pedal Steady – The crowds of summer have dispersed, leaving nothing between you and 25 miles of gorgeous land and seascapes along the Cape Cod Rail Trail
- Get Away – Tucked off Route 7 in Great Barrington, Beartown State Forest offers over 12k acres with extensive network trails for you to take in the foliage and wildlife.
- What a View – If you’re up for a challenge, then a hike up Mt. Greylock might just be for you. With several options to reach the summit, the journey is lovely but it’s the stellar lookout from the top you’ll find truly unforgettable.
- Easy Trek – Just a hop and a skip from Boston, the Blue Hills Reservation is home to 125 miles of trails that will leave you in awe.
