Scenic drives are a favorite pastime for many of us New Englanders. After all, there are so many gorgeous corners of the region to explore. And if there’s one scenic drive in Massachusetts you should take, it’s the Mount Greylock Scenic Byway. Not only will you be overwhelmed with all the stunning scenery along the way, but the drive will take you right through Mount Greylock State Reservation.

Mount Greylock State Reservation was established in 1898 as Massachusetts' first state park. Located in the Berkshires, it's home to the highest peak in the state.
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One way to get to the summit is to take the Mount Greylock Scenic Byway. This 16-mile stretch of paved road goes straight through Mount Greylock State Reservation and up to the mountain's summit.
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Also known as Rockwell Road, the scenic byway winds its way through the reservation's alpine forests and mountainous scenery.
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You may want to pull over at certain points to take in the scenery or go for a hike.
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As far as hiking goes there are plenty of trails to hit while exploring the area. If you get the AllTrails app then you can keep a map with you as you go but there are three trails we can highlight for you. On the easy side, you can do the Rounds Rock Trail. This shorter hike will offer two lower but fantastic viewpoints and if you take a side trail you can even see an airplane old crash site. The second is a little bit more difficult and starts at the top of Mount Greylock. Spend some time walking around the monument then hit the woods to do the Mount Greylock Overlook Trail with the overlook halfway through the hike. For our last trail suggestion, the Appalachian Trail to Old Summit also starts on top of Mount Greylock. This section of the Appalachian Trail will take you to another peak and over stunning views of the area.
Keep in mind that Rockwell Road is only open between May and November, so plan accordingly! While spring and summer offer their own exquisite beauty, taking the drive in the fall will treat your eyes to a world of colorful foliage.
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At the end of the byway is the Mount Greylock summit. At 3,491 feet, it's the highest point in the Bay State. Allow yourself plenty of time to get out of the car, walk around, and take in the panoramic views.
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It's simply magical here at the top! On a clear day, you may be able to see into five states, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New York.
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Have you ever taken the Mount Greylock Scenic Byway through Mount Greylock State Reservation? What is your favorite scenic drive in Massachusetts? Let us know in the comments! To learn more about this particular scenic byway, visit the Housatonic Heritage website. Make sure to check out this video from MileMarker4K  to see this wonderful and beautiful drive:

You can also check out these gorgeous scenic backroads in Massachusetts if you’re looking for your next adventure.

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Scenic Drives In Massacussetts

Chris Dodge | August 23, 2023

What are the highest mountains in Massachusetts?

If you are used to traveling along the east coast you might miss the beautiful mountains altogether but here are the top 3 highest mountains in Massachusetts:

  • Mount Greylock at 3,491 feet
  • Saddle Ball Mountain at 3,238
  • Mount Fitch at 3,110

 

What are the best scenic drives in Massachusetts?

From the Atlantic to the mountains out west to historic places we have some pretty scenic drives in Massachusetts here are a few of our favorites:

 

What is the most scenic area in Massachusetts?

My personal favorite is the Berkshires, especially during the fall. 

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