Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you can’t take a scenic drive. And after a snowfall, a winter in Massachusetts can be quite magical. If you want some things to do in the winter in Massachusetts, maybe a 57-mile drive on the Central Hills Loop scenic drive around the Quabbin Reservoir and through several small towns is something to consider.

(Please note: before you leave the house on a scenic drive in winter, check road conditions and only embark on this road trip if it’s safe enough to do so.)

The 57-mile Central Hills Loop through several small towns around the Quabbin Reservoir is scenic any time of year. But after a snowfall in the winter, it's especially lovely.
Google Maps
None of your stops have to be too lengthy, so round trip is only a few hours. Perfect for a snowy afternoon drive before going home and spending a cozy evening by the fire.
You can choose any number of small towns like New Salem, Pelham, Belchertown, Ware, Hardwick, Nichewaugm and Petersham to begin this scenic drive.
Bear's Den, 18 Neilson Rd, New Salem, MA 01355, USA
FiendZ911/Google
It's most convenient to start the drive in New Salem where you can stop by the six-acre ​​Bear's Den to see the newly fallen snow there. And don't forget to head over to the preserve's waterfall which will look lovely surrounded by snow.
From New Salem, head south to Belchertown and stop at the ​​Quabbin Visitor Center if you'd like. Here you can park your car and go for a hike in the winter wonderland by the water or just marvel at the reservoir views.
Quabbin Reservoir, Massachusetts, USA
Flickr/Frank LeJeune

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Next on our scenic winter drive in Massachusetts, the Central Hills Loop heads east through the town of Ware. Stop here to see the beautiful Ware River.
River Street, River St, Ware SG12 7AF, UK
Massachusetts Office Of Travel & Tourism/Flickr
Another point of interest along the drive is the Ware-Hardwick Covered Bridge in Ware. At 137 feet long, it is the longest covered bridge in Massachusetts and was built in 1886. This is a must-visit attraction near the Quabbin Reservoir.
Ware, MA 01082, USA
Dave Gilbert/Google
After Ware, you'll head north through Hardwick, Nichewaug, and ​​Petersham where you can stop at the Swift River Reservation before getting back to New Salem, completing the loop.
Swift River Reservation, Barre Rd, Petersham, MA 01366, USA
Krystal Ducharme/Google
There are plenty of stops off of and along the Central Hills Loop where you can get out of your car and take in all the beauty in the area. Although you can always stay in the cozy warmth of your car and take in the views out your windows as well.
Flickr/Mark Bonica

 

Have you taken a scenic winter drive in Massachusetts on the Central Hills Loop? What are some of your favorite points of interest along the way? Let us know below in the comments. We would love to hear from you!

If you’re looking for more things to do in winter in Massachusetts, check out these winter places in Massachusetts that we think you should visit. Don’t forget to stock up on the best road trip snacks!

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More to Explore

Winter In Massachusetts

Katie Feldkamp | November 16, 2022

Where are some destinations for a winter road trip in Massachusetts?

When planning your winter road trip, consider including any of these historic and charming towns in Massachusetts:

  • Northampton
  • Stockbridge
  • Deerfield
  • Rockport

Need more ideas? Here is a list of 10 of the best places in Massachusetts to visit in the winter.

What are some things to do during winter in Massachusetts?

Winter in Massachusetts is downright cold, but that shouldn’t keep you indoors. Make the most out of all the snow, and check out some of these fun winter activities in Massachusetts:

Still looking for more things to do? Make some memories with any of these unforgettable winter activities in Massachusetts.

What is winter like in Massachusetts?

Hovering above freezing for most of the season, winter in Massachusetts is surprisingly mild. Here are some interesting facts about winter in The Bay State:

  • The average temperature in winter reaches up to 37 degrees and drops down to about 20 degrees.
  • Fitchburg is the snowiest town in Massachusetts.
  • There are 13 ski resorts. Most are in the central and western regions of the Berkshire Mountains.
  • The record low temperature was set in 1984 when it reached -40 degrees.

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