The 7 Least-Crowded Towns In Massachusetts To Catch Fall Foliage
These Massachusetts towns are the best places to visit if you're looking for calm and scenic fall foliage. From scenic dunes in Cape Cod to traditional hikes on the Appalachian Mountains, there are plenty of activities you can participate in to make the most out of your fall retreat. The fall vibes in these towns are not to be missed, with peak color happening from late September to early November.
Shelburne Falls
Shelburne Falls is a 90-minute short drive from Boston and is within Franklin County. The small town is populated by almost 3,000 people and is a nice fall retreat from the bustling college towns in the area. If you want to get active, Shelburne Falls has scenic hiking trails to enjoy the vibrant fall colors. The Mahican Mohawk Trail is a great place to stroll by the Deerfield River and go fishing and camping. Despite the path being a bit rough, the view is very rewarding as the fall colors are very vibrant in that area. If you’re looking for a more laid-back retreat, you can visit The Wooded Loop Trail and its inviting resting area by the pond and stone walls. The best time to visit for warm-weather activities is between September and October, but the best time for great fall foliage is during October.
Hamilton
Only 24 miles away from Cambridge, the crowded college town of Hamilton is home to Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Hamilton’s proximity to these universities and its quiet atmosphere have made it a perfect destination for fall retreats. The best spot in town to see fall colors come to life is Dundas Peak, in the Hamilton Conservation Authority. You can enjoy the rewarding view of the hike after climbing the Tews Falls Side Trail. If you want more laid-back activities, stroll the scenic Chedoke Radial Trail in the Chedoke Golf Course and its peculiar bridge! Make sure you visit during October to make the most out of your trip.
Conway
With a community of around 2,000 people, the picturesque town is bordered by Shelburne in the western part of Massachusetts. The town is home to the Deerfield River Portage, an ideal place to drive by or participate in the tubing service and activities offered. If you’re looking for a different kind of foliage, you can hike in the Conway State Forest or enjoy the fall vibes and colors in the South River State Forest. Spooky season lovers can enjoy the festivities in the Festival of the Hills, which is held in September. If you’re driving by, make sure you take the scenic Burkeville Covered Bridge, which connects Conway to nearby towns. Since areas with higher elevation change color earlier, the best time to visit is between mid-September to mid-October.
Great Barrington
The mountainous town is a beauty all year long, but fall in Great Barrington is a refreshing and wonderful experience. Home to about 7,500 residents, the town is a 2-hour drive west of Boston. If you’re up for a foliage challenge, you can hike up the rigorous Monument Mountain. The rewarding view at the peak overlooks the Housatonic River and the array of colors in the dense woods. The farmland in Great Barrington is a good spot to visit as well, with farms such as Taft Farms and Windy Hill Farm attracting tourists around this time. You can catch some of the fall festivities in the area at the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center, whose name is attributed to indigenous communities of the Stockbridge-Munsee tribe of the Mohican people.
Tyringham
In Berkshire County, the small town of Tyringham is home to roughly 700 people in the western part of Massachusetts. The town's landscapes and terrain have made it a perfect destination to enjoy the fall vibes and calm atmosphere. For a laid-back hike and panoramic scenes, you can visit Tyringham Cobble. The unique terrain is formed from tectonic activity and rare composition. Also, the town has beautiful gardens and parks, such as the Ashintully Garden. There’s nothing better than enjoying the fall breeze in the elegant spaces and seating areas of this garden. You can also enjoy fall foliage in this town by participating in their fall festivals, such as the annual Hay Ride Trick or Treat Party.
Provincetown
Provincetown, located in Barnstable County, is populated by approximately1,700 residents. Provincetown has many secluded spots to enjoy fall foliage, such as the sandy dunes in the Cape Cod Lands. The scenic landscapes are perfect for catching a sunset, running, or just lying around and enjoying the fall air. You can also take a look at the Race Point Lighthouse and enjoy the scenic shallow lakes in that area. The town is the perfect spot to embrace the fall since its terrain ranges from sandy beaches to thick forests, such as that in Beech Forest- a great spot to watch the fall colors during early September and October. While you're in town, be sure to add the Pilgrim Monument Provincetown Museum to your list. The museum showcases the history of the town's indigenous communities and Mayflower pilgrims.
Becket
A two-hour drive from Boston, Becket is a great place to enjoy the fall weather and activities. Although the small town is only populated by 1,800 residents, it sure has plenty of fall festivities you can attend. The town’s oldest fall tradition entails hiking in the Appalachian Mountains and making apple cider in Jacob’s Pillow, a performing arts area surrounded by a beautiful forest. You can also visit Becket Quarry and take a look at its historic monuments. This forest and rocky terrain are marvelous sights, and peak color happens during late October, making it a perfect place for a break. The town is also a good destination during November when the weather is chilly since you can check out sites such as the Canterbury Farm, which has Nordic food and festivities.
Massachusetts' Autumn Hideaways
The state's views and trails are a wonderful view during this time of the year. Luckily, these towns are not crowded or very populated, meaning you can fully enjoy the fall festivities and calm vibes. These quiet towns are a nice break from the busy college towns nearby, with Boston University and Harvard University students escaping to these quiet towns during fall retreats. If you're in the state, make sure you stop by and enjoy the ambiance or drive by the scenic roads and trails in these towns.
