Road Trip Guide
The Mohawk Trail: New England's First Scenic Road
Greenfield to Williamstown
Start Your Engine
Greenfield
The Finish Line
Williamstown
63 miles
Miles
1-2 days
Days
Start Stops End
Trip Essentials for Greenfield
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Insider Driving Tips
Peak foliage typically occurs in early to mid-October; mid-week visits are best to avoid the heaviest crowds.
Be sure to visit the 'Hairpin Turn' for the most famous view on the trail, but use lower gears when descending the steep grade.
Many of the small roadside stands are cash-only; keep some small bills on hand for apples and cider.
Stop at the Bridge of Flowers in Shelburne Falls early in the morning to enjoy the colors before the crowds arrive.
The western end of the trail connects to the Berkshires; consider extending your trip to visit Tanglewood or Mount Greylock.
The Journey: Stop-by-Stop
Shelburne Falls
Baked
βA charming local bakery and cafe on State Street, perfect for a fresh-baked muffin and a cup of locally roasted coffee.β
The Bridge of Flowers
Capture the length of the bridge with the vibrant blooms in the foreground and the river below.
The Glacial Potholes
Use a long exposure to capture the smooth, swirling patterns in the rock pools and the rushing water.
The Iron Bridge
The historic 1890 truss bridge offers the best view of the Bridge of Flowers and the dam, especially when the morning mist is rising from the river.
Charlemont
Wells Provisions
βA modern take on a general store, offering excellent sandwiches, gourmet coffee, and a curated selection of local goods.β
Hail to the Sunrise Statue
The iconic bronze statue against the backdrop of the Hoosac Range is a powerful and historic image.
Deerfield River Rapids
Capture the energy of the whitewater as it crashes through the rocky riverbed.
Bissell Covered Bridge
A beautifully restored 1881 covered bridge that spans Mill Brook, tucked away just off the main road.
The Hairpin Turn
Golden Eagle Restaurant
βWhile the view is the main attraction, stopping for a slice of pie and a cup of coffee while overlooking the valley is a long-standing tradition.β
The Apex Viewpoint
The classic panoramic shot overlooking North Adams and the distant mountains of Vermont.
The Turn Itself
Capture the dramatic curve of the road as it hugs the mountainside, emphasizing the steepness of the terrain.
Western Summit Overlook
Just a mile past the hairpin turn, this quieter overlook offers a slightly different perspective and is a great spot for watching the sunset.
North Adams & Williamstown
Public Eat+Drink
βA lively gastropub in North Adams serving creative, high-quality comfort food and an excellent selection of craft beers.β
MASS MoCA Courtyard
The red-brick industrial buildings and large-scale outdoor sculptures offer endless architectural and artistic possibilities.
Williamstown Town Green
Capture the elegant white buildings of Williams College against the backdrop of the surrounding hills.
Natural Bridge State Park
Home to the only natural white marble arch in North America, carved over thousands of years by glacial meltwater.
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Frequently Asked Questions
It opened as a scenic highway in 1914, but it has been used as a travel route for thousands of years.
You can drive it in about 90 minutes, but we recommend taking a full day to enjoy the stops and museums.
Yes, especially the section around the Hairpin Turn. Ensure your brakes are in good condition and use lower gears.
The first and second weeks of October are typically the peak for the higher elevations along the trail.
Yes, there are several historic inns, motels, and bed and breakfasts in Shelburne Falls, Charlemont, and Williamstown.