Western Summit and Hairpin Turn Route 2
Experience breathtaking panoramic views along the historic Mohawk Trail at the Western Summit and Hairpin Turn. A must-see scenic overlook.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant foliage, fewer crowds
Western Summit and Hairpin Turn Route 2
Best Time
Vibrant foliage, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience breathtaking panoramic views along the historic Mohawk Trail at the Western Summit and Hairpin Turn. A must-see scenic overlook.
"Breath taking views! A must during any season and downright breathtaking during leaf peeping season."
📸 Capture the Colors
Visit during fall for breathtaking foliage. The colors are truly amazing!
🚗 Pull Over Safely
If parking is full, find safe spots to pull over and enjoy the prettiness.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Hairpin Turn Vista
Route 2, Mohawk Trail
Experience a dramatic curve with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. A true scenic marvel.
Mohawk Trail Scenery
Route 2
Drive along this historic route, renowned for its stunning natural beauty, especially during autumn. Enjoy the changing colors.
Seasonal Beauty
Western Summit
Breathtaking views are guaranteed in any season, but especially vibrant during leaf-peeping season.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Views
Parking and Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Along the Mohawk Trail. Route 2 in N. Adams, 1950's.
📸 Capture the Colors
Visit during fall for breathtaking foliage. The colors are truly amazing!
🚗 Pull Over Safely
If parking is full, find safe spots to pull over and enjoy the prettiness.
Along the Mohawk Trail. Route 2 in N. Adams, 1950's.
Shot I got in North Adam’s (Route 2/Mohawk Trail)
📍 Shelburne Falls Stop
Consider a stop in Shelburne Falls for coffee or a unique experience.
☀️ Check Weather
Clear days offer the best, breathtaking views.
Scenic stops from Boston to the Berkshires?
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Colors
Visit during fall for breathtaking foliage. The colors are truly amazing!
🚗 Pull Over Safely
If parking is full, find safe spots to pull over and enjoy the prettiness.
📍 Shelburne Falls Stop
Consider a stop in Shelburne Falls for coffee or a unique experience.
☀️ Check Weather
Clear days offer the best, breathtaking views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking, panoramic views from the Western Summit and Hairpin Turn, calling it a must-see, especially during leaf-peeping season. The scenic beauty of the Mohawk Trail is a major draw, offering stunning vistas year-round. Some visitors noted that amenities like stores might be closed, but the natural beauty remains accessible and impressive.
"What a beautiful overlook! Plenty of parking, not very busy when we were there. I wish it was sunny. The colors would have been amazing. We did enjoy it anlot"
Daniel Gabrian
"Love this part of Route 2. The Mohawk Trail is absolutely stunning. It is my first time to the Berkshires and what a stunning part of Massachusetts!"
George Farah
"Breath taking views! Store and parking lot was roped off, but we pulled over and took in all the prettiness."
Manda Lown
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most scenic route from Boston is to take Route 2 West. This drive is part of the historic Mohawk Trail and offers numerous scenic stops. The Western Summit and Hairpin Turn are key points along this route.
Route 2 West is generally open year-round. However, winter conditions can sometimes lead to temporary closures or require caution due to snow and ice. Always check local road conditions before traveling in winter.
Besides the Western Summit and Hairpin Turn, consider stopping in Shelburne Falls for its unique charm and the 'Bridge of Flowers'. The entire Mohawk Trail is dotted with overlooks and small towns worth exploring.
The drive without stops can take around 3-4 hours. However, with the intention of enjoying scenic stops like the Western Summit and Hairpin Turn, plan for a full day or at least a significant portion of it.
The Hairpin Turn is a distinct, sharp curve on Route 2. It's well-marked by its dramatic change in direction and the expansive overlook that accompanies it. You'll know it when you see it due to the incredible vista.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to access the Western Summit and Hairpin Turn overlooks. They are public viewpoints along Route 2.
The viewpoints are accessible 24/7 as they are natural overlooks along a public road. However, for the best experience and safety, visiting during daylight hours is recommended.
Some reviews mention the store being roped off. It's best to check current local information for its operating status, but the scenic views are always accessible.
No advance booking is necessary as this is a natural scenic overlook on a public highway.
The main restriction is to drive safely and pull over only in designated or safe areas. Respect the natural environment and any posted signage.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offer beautiful lighting for photography. However, the dramatic vistas are impressive throughout the day, especially during fall foliage.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive panoramas. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating distant features. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures.
The entire overlook area provides excellent vantage points. Experiment with different angles to capture the curve of the road and the sweeping valley views.
Drone regulations vary by location and park. It's essential to check current FAA guidelines and any local restrictions before flying a drone in this area.
Focus on the sweeping mountain ranges, the winding road, and the vibrant colors of the landscape, especially during autumn. The sheer scale of the view is the main attraction.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip: Pack snacks and drinks, as amenities might be limited or closed depending on the season. Ensure children are supervised closely near the overlooks. The drive itself along Route 2 can also be an adventure, with opportunities to point out different trees and landscapes.
🚗 Road Trippers & Photographers
Photography tip: Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the full panorama. The best light for photos is often during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, but the views are impressive any time of day on a clear day. Be prepared for potential crowds during peak foliage season.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mohawk Trail Experience
Driving the Mohawk Trail is an experience in itself. You'll encounter charming small towns, dense forests, and breathtaking vistas that change with the seasons. The Western Summit and the iconic Hairpin Turn are prime examples of the dramatic landscapes this route showcases. It's a place where you can truly appreciate the grandeur of New England's natural scenery.
Key highlights of the Mohawk Trail include its accessibility for day-trippers and its appeal to those seeking a peaceful escape. Whether you're driving through in the summer greenery, the fiery autumn colors, or even a snow-dusted winter wonderland, the Mohawk Trail promises a memorable journey. Remember to drive cautiously, especially on the steeper and curvier sections.
Seasonal Spectacles: Fall Foliage
Peak foliage typically occurs from mid-September to mid-October, though this can vary slightly year to year. Visitors flock to this area to witness the breathtaking colors from the overlooks. The combination of the dramatic landscape and the intense fall colors creates a truly unforgettable visual experience.
While the fall colors are a major draw, they also mean increased visitor numbers. To enjoy the views with fewer crowds, consider visiting on a weekday or very early in the morning. Even if the parking lot is full, safe pull-off spots are often available to still soak in the scenery.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit