Treat yourself and take one of the most scenic drives in Massachusetts. Massachusetts puts on a stunning fall foliage show every year, but unless you live in the more rural areas of the state, you likely aren’t seeing all the spectacular seasonal color on display. Check out these amazing country roads that will take you through the most beautiful fall foliage in Massachusetts.

1. Route 116 Scenic Byway
Massachusetts 116, MA-116, Chicopee, MA, USA
Flickr/Anthony Quintano
This route will take you along the eastern limits of the Mohawk Trail and through the center of the Berkshires. You’ll pass through Conway, Savoy, Plainfield, Cheshire and Adams on your way through the stunning autumn scenery. This is one of the most scenic drives in Massachusetts.
2. Mount Greylock Scenic Byway
Mount Greylock, Adams, MA 01220, USA
Flickr/Stevetheretired
This road is perfect if you want to devote a whole day to taking in the beautiful foliage. It will take you from the Pennsylvania border to the edge of Maine, and you’ll be treated to sights like Natural Bridge State Park, Bascom Lodge and the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail. Driving the whole road will take you about 2.5 hours, but the beautiful fall color is definitely worth it. Driving this route is one of the best things to do in Massachusetts during the fall.
3. Battle Road Scenic Byway
Battle Road Trail, Battle Rd Trail, Lexington, MA, USA
Flickr/denisbin
This road is filled with history and beautiful views. It follows the path of British soldiers during the first battle of the American Revolution. Today, the Battle Road Scenic Byway runs approximately 15 miles through Arlington, Lincoln, Concord, Lexington and part of the Minute Man National Historic Park.
4. Jacob's Ladder Scenic Byway
Jacob's Ladder Scenic Byway and Appalachian Trail Parking Area, Lee, MA 01238, USA
Flickr/Banspy
This route will take you through the best foliage around the Berkshire foothills. You’ll drive by dramatic cliffs, beautiful woodland groves, and gorgeous 19th-century architecture. Enjoy fall in Massachusetts by taking this drive.
5. Route 112 Scenic Byway
Massachusetts 112, MA-112, Colrain, MA, USA
Flickr/Vitorio Benedetti
This route will take you from north to south across the state, all the way from the edge of Vermont to Huntington. You’ll wind through the D.A.R. State Forest and the Chester-Blandford State Forest, seeing lots of incredible foliage as you go.
6. Mohawk Trail Scenic Byway
Mohawk Trail, North Adams, MA, USA
Flickr/MOTT
There are more than 100 attractions along the Mohawk Trail Scenic Byway, and you’ll definitely want to hop out of the car for a few pictures along the way. Check out the beautiful Bridge of Flowers in Shelburne Falls, and stop for a break (and an eyeful of bright foliage) at the moving "Hail to the Sunrise" statue.
7. Connecticut River Valley Byway
Connecticut River Byway, Sunderland, MA 01375, USA
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
This scenic route in Massachusetts will lead you through some of the most fertile farmland and agricultural landscapes in New England. During your trip, be sure to stop at Summit House on Mount Holyoke and the Hadley Farm Museum.
8. Old King's Highway (Route 6A)
Old King's Highway, Old King's Hwy, Yarmouth, MA, USA
Flickr/Doug Kerr
This historic highway has been around since colonial times. It runs along the entire length of the Cape on the northern side, which means its less crowded than bustling Route 28. Stop at Nickerson State Park for the perfect fall picnic spot.
9. Essex Coastal Scenic Byway
Lynn Beach, Lynn, MA 01902, USA
Flickr/MOTT
This North Shore scenic route will take you through 14 coastal towns and past some of the best foliage north of Boston. You’ll drive by colonial architecture, historic sites and plenty of colorful trees.
10. Blue Hills Reservation
Flickr/Bill Illot
Driving through this beautiful woodland reservation feels like escaping to the countryside, but it's only minutes from Boston. It offers over 125 miles of trails, if you feel like stretching your legs and seeing some of the gorgeous foliage on foot. Enjoy this scenic route and some of the best fall foliage in Massachusetts.

What do you think about these scenic drives in Massachusetts? If you’re in the mood to see some top-notch foliage, but not in the mood to drive, check out this amazing Massachusetts fall foliage train ride.

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More to Explore

Fall foliage in Massachusetts

Jessica Bohl | August 26, 2022

Where are some places to visit to enjoy fall foliage in Massachusetts?

There are some amazing places to enjoy fall foliage in Massachusetts. Leominster State Park is a stunning public forest across five towns. It is a peaceful and quiet park with a beautiful, dense forest and even a lake. When the leaves change, it is truly a spectacular place to be. So grab your hiking shoes and camera and give it a go. Bish Bash Falls in Mount Washington is another gorgeous destination to enjoy fall foliage. As Massachusetts’ tallest waterfall, it is a sight to behold year-round. But when the falls are surrounded by the fiery red and orange foliage, it is truly breathtaking.

Are there any scenic train rides in Massachusetts?

There are some truly amazing scenic drives through Massachusetts. But sometimes it is nice to just sit back and relax and enjoy a scenic train ride through the beautiful landscapes. Fortunately the Cape Cod Central Railroad offers scenic train rides through Cape Code. Generally the tours are about two hours long and depart from Hyannis or Buzzards Bay. The train ride is narrated by a knowledgeable tour guide who provides great facts and information about the area. When you take the train ride in the fall, you get the added bonus of enjoying the stunning colors of the fall foliage. It’s a fun trip for all ages, so put it on your bucket list.

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