FOLLOW THE LANDSCAPE. DISCOVER THE STORY.

Mohawk Trail Scenic Byway

America’s stories are written into its landscapes.
Header: View of the Deerfield River from the Byway in east Charlemont · Public Domain. Franklin Regional Council of Governments · Photo credits
PLACES THAT KEEP THE PAST CLOSE

A story worth following.

The Mohawk Trail Scenic Byway celebrates the history, heritage, and natural beauty of an important regional travel route. The Mohawk Trail is steeped in local and regional history and acts as a microcosm of the broader history of the region. Approximately 12,000 years ago, Native Americans used this route to travel between the Hudson River and Connecticut River Valleys. Later, the European settlers used the route, and eventually altered it, to support travel by horse and cart. As the use of automobiles increased, this route became the first to be constructed as a scenic auto touring route.

This photo is of the view of the Deerfield River as seen from the pull-off area on the south side of the Byway. The view is to the west and there are trees and vegetation in the foreground, the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains in the background, and the Deerfield River.
View of the Deerfield River from the Byway in east Charlemont
Public Domain. Franklin Regional Council of Governments
A view of a church and buildings on the campus of Williams College that can be seen from the Byway in Williamstown.
Williamstown on the Mohawk Trail Scenic Byway
Public Domain. Berkshire Regional Planning Commission
BUILD YOUR OWN CHAPTER

Places to begin

    Suggested starting points, not a turn-by-turn route. Choose a manageable local section; stops may be far apart.

    Make the visit work for you

    Choose your stops before departure and check current road access, weather and vehicle suitability. A byway listing does not guarantee that every section or visitor facility is open.

    Give the story time

    Allow time for interpretation, a short walk and conversations. One well-chosen historic place can be more rewarding than a rushed list of stops.

    Bring your group comfortably

    Confirm parking, restrooms, walking surfaces and group reservations with each site. A historic trail designation does not guarantee coach access.

    Official visitor information ↗

    U.S. visits only. Historic routes may cross private property or have disconnected public sections. Official links provide current maps, access and operating information. Photographs may show earlier conditions.