Mount Greylock Scenic Byway

State: Massachusetts
Length: 16.3 mi / 26.23 km
Time to Allow: Plan for at least 2.5 hours to explore the area, and add additional time if you plan to hike.

If you’re looking for an incredible day trip opportunity, this is the scenic byway for you. While this byway is only 16.3 miles long, plan to take about 2 1/2 hours to explore the visitor center, take photos at the summit of Mount Greylock, and explore Western Gateway Heritage State Park. Of course, the total amount of time you spend on the scenic byway depends on if you want to take advantage of the various hiking and walking trails found within the aforementioned State Park.

As with any area of Massachusetts or New England, if you find yourself in this area during the fall season, you were in for an absolute treat. This is a great scenic byway to allow you to explore the gorgeous foliage that makes up most of New England during the fall months. If you intend to visit during the height of the fall season, make sure to give yourself a little extra time to make it around this scenic trail. You should also make sure to bring a great camera with you, as the summit of this mountain allows you to see five different states up to 70 miles away, giving you an incredible overview of what makes New England such a gorgeous place to visit.

The scenic byway does put you in the middle of the forests of Massachusetts, meaning that as far as shopping goes you may be out of luck. However, this is an incredible area to go camping or explore some of the natural trails found in this area. If you don’t mind crossing state lines, you are right nearby Albany NY, allowing you to explore both of these states in a single trip. It’s also worth noting that this byway is right near several wildlife preserves, allowing you to fully experience the natural beauty of Massachusetts from the comfort of your car.

If you don’t mind taking a bit of a drive back toward the center of Massachusetts, you can make your way to a majority of the various areas in Massachusetts, including Worcester. Not only is Worcester home to several shopping areas and malls, but it also has an iconic downtown area that includes several delicious restaurants and shopping options, as well as iconic New England brick buildings that are worth taking pictures of. For those interested in the cultural offerings of Worcester, you were right nearby the Worcester Art Museum, an incredible gem settled in the heart of this area. Not only does this museum include a historic collection of artwork that is sure to stun, but the calm atmosphere and incredible seating options make it a nice stop for those tired out by the rest of their trip, who are looking to just enjoy a little peace and quiet after a long day. Thankfully, if you’re not one for camping, Worcester also includes several hotels and overnight options, so you can sleep and comfort while preparing for your next day on the road.

While this scenic byway does put you pretty far away from Boston, those looking to make a weeklong trip of this area can make their way to that iconic city, and experience a slice of American history as you’ve never seen it before. Of course, if you don’t feel like driving that far, there are plenty of small New England towns along the way to explore and appreciate. Even if you aren’t sure of your destination when you take to the road, there is something quaint and comforting about driving along back roads in Massachusetts, looking at the natural landscape, and appreciating the colonial buildings that dot the residential areas of this state.

No matter where you find yourself traveling after exploring the scenic byway, you’re sure to find yourself falling in love with the gorgeous scenery and incredible views that make up this corner of Massachusetts.