Take In The Beauty Of Massachusetts Year-Round With These 12 Scenic Drives
By Melissa Mahoney
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Published January 03, 2023
We all love a good scenic drive every now and then. And living in the Bay State gives us plenty of opportunities to enjoy its resplendent beauty. If you’re in the mood to take several scenic drives in Massachusetts in the coming year, this list is for you!
1. Battle Road Scenic Byway
Battle Road Trail, Battle Rd Trail, Concord, MA, USA
Take a step back in time to the year 1775 as you drive along the
Battle Road Scenic Byway . The route is nearly 14 miles long through Concord, Lexington, Lincoln, and Arlington, and there are plenty of historical sites dating back to the Revolutionary War along the way.
2. Chickatawbut Road
Chickatawbut Road, Chickatawbut Rd, Quincy, MA, USA
Through the Blue Hills in Quincy, take a scenic drive along the 3.75-mile
Chickatawbut Road . This short but sweet road is as scenic as it comes as it meanders through Blue Hills Reservation.
3. Lost Villages Scenic Byway (Route 122)
Massachusetts 122, MA-122, Paxton, MA, USA
Due to a shrinking water supply in Boston in the 1930s, the need for a large reservoir grew. And so, Quabbin Reservoir was created. Most interesting of all is that it was constructed over several abandoned towns. Did you know there are a few
underwater ghost towns in the Quabbin Reservoir? Take a scenic drive on Route 122 around this beautiful body of water and be sure to stop occasionally to take in all the scenery.
4. Route 112 Scenic Byway
Massachusetts 112, MA-112, Colrain, MA, USA
Covering 51 miles through mountainous Western Mass is the
Route 112 Scenic Byway . Along the way, you'll pass through forests, farmland, and small towns. It's such a relaxing scenic drive!
5. Route 6A (Old King's Highway)
Old King's Highway Regional Historic District Commission, 209 MA-6A, Sandwich, MA 02563, USA
Before the summer crowds get here, take a drive along Route 6A, otherwise known as
Old King's Highway . This historic route has no shortage of historic sites, cranberry bogs, small towns, and charm.
6. Mount Greylock Scenic Byway
Mount Greylock, Adams, MA 01220, USA
As the highest point in Massachusetts, Mount Greylock is a sight to see. Take a paved road for a
scenic drive to the summit where you can take in the views!
7. Route 116 Scenic Byway
Massachusetts 116, MA-116, Sunderland, MA, USA
At just over 68 miles, the
Route 116 Scenic Byway is a scenic byway that travels through historic towns and rural landscape. And there are plenty of places to turn off the road and enjoy the natural beauty.
8. Mount Wachusett State Reservation
Mount Wachusett, Princeton, MA 01541, USA
From Memorial Day weekend until the last weekend of October, Mount Wachusett's summit road is open. Take a scenic drive up the mountain to the top and be sure to get out of your car and have a look at the gorgeous scenery! Visit
Mass.gov to learn more.
9. Connecticut River Scenic Byway
Connecticut River, United States
In all, the
Connecticut River Scenic Byway is 274 miles long between several states. However, only 39 miles go through Western Mass. Enjoy a leisurely drive along the way and see farms, historic villages, and historic sites.
10. Mohawk Trail Scenic Byway
Mohawk Trail Scenic Byway picnic area, 1947-1997 Mohawk Trail, Shelburne Falls, MA 01370, USA
Following a historic Native American trade route, the
Mohawk Trail is considered one of the most scenic drives in Massachusetts. The most exciting part is the infamous hairpin turn where you will find the Golden Eagle Restaurant. Stopping here for a bite to eat and the views is a must!
11. Jacob's Ladder Scenic Byway
Jacob's Ladder Scenic Byway and Appalachian Trail Parking Area, Lee, MA 01238, USA
Small towns, rock ledges, forests, a river, and fields all await you along
Jacob's Ladder Scenic Byway . You'll see some of the most extraordinary scenery in Massachusetts.
12. Essex Coastal Scenic Byway
Good any time of year, the
Essex Coastal Scenic Byway is situated on Massachusetts' North Shore. From Lynn to Salisbury, you'll drive through 14 communities and see plenty of coastline views along the way.
Highways and byways provide some spectacular scenic drives in Massachusetts. Which ones are your favorites? Tell us in the comments!
If you love scenic drives, you’ll probably also love taking one of these best day trips in Massachusetts . Get ready for adventure!
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