Massachusetts #1
Massachusetts Mohawk Trail

The Mohawk Trail, from central Massachusetts to the Berkshires on the western part of the state, was at one time a simple footpath used by Native Americans for trading, hunting and socializing. Over the years, the route was gradually widened and paved. What is now designated Massachusetts Rte. 2 will take you through forested wilderness and historic towns, and along the way introduce you to the region's rich arts scene. The tour begins in the town of Greenfield, originally part of nearby Deerfield. Deerfield lies just to the south on U.S. 5. Historic Deerfield is a village of 14 beautifully preserved and restored homes from the 18th and 19th Centuries and is well worth a visit.

Heading west on Rte. 2 you'll come to the town of Shelburne, known for the Bridge of Flowers, an abandoned trolley bridge that some local gardeners transformed into a flowering span back in the 1920s. The bridge is swathed in some 500 species of blooms from early spring into fall. Detour along Rte. 112 north from Shelburne to the award-winning North River Winery for a tour and a tasting (moderation, please!). Back on the Mohawk Trail you'll come to the town of Charlemont. In the summertime, stop at the Charlemont Federated Church for a free concert.

Travel west to the Mohawk Trail State Forest and the Savoy State Forest with their beautiful hiking trails – including portions of the original Mohawk Trail footpath. Take the half-mile hike in the Savoy Forest to Tannery Falls, a spectacular 80-foot waterfall. Pitch a tent at the 45-unit campground if you feel like taking more time to explore these heavily wooded forests.

Not far from the 2,240-foot Whitcomb Summit, the highest point along the Mohawk Trail, is the town of Florida, at the mouth of the Hoosac Tunnel. About 200 men were killed while building this 4.7-mile railway tunnel, known as "the Bloody Pit." Nevertheless, the passage was crucial to the development of North Adams, a factory town to the west, which features many well-preserved 19th Century industrial buildings. The Western Gateway Heritage State Park in North Adams is on the site of an old freight yard and its many exhibits explain the region's industrial history. Before you leave North Adams, be sure to visit the converted 27-building historic mill complex, which houses MASS Moca, the museum of contemporary art that has been credited with reviving North Adams' depressed economy. Nearby is the Natural Bridge State Park, which is built on an enormous marble quarry and the only natural bridge in New England.

Keep going west to the town of Adams, another factory town with many 19th Century textile mills and the birthplace of Susan B. Anthony. The drive ends in picturesque Williamstown, home of the Sterling and Francine Clark Art Institute with its collection of American paintings, including works by Sargent, Cassatt and Winslow Homer. Here also is Williams College and the Williamstown Theatre Festival. The 11-week summer festival regularly presents classic and new plays performed by local actors as well as such stars as Colleen Dewhurst, Richard Dreyfuss and Gwyneth Paltrow.

Starting Point:
Greenfield, MA

Distance of Drive:
52 miles

Must Eat:
Brickford's Family Restaurant
258 Mohawk Trail
Greenfield, MA 01301
Phone:    413-774-3173
Call ahead to confirm hours of operation.  
Good Stop For:    Home style cooking

Best Time of Year for Drive:
Fall is best when the color of the leaves is at its peak.

Points of Interest on Drive:
Bridge of Flowers
Tannery Falls
Mohawk Trail State Forest

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