Famous route

Mohawk Trail (MA 2)

The Mohawk Trail follows an old Native American path across western Massachusetts as part of Routes 2 and 2A. Its best-known feature is the hairpin turn with a lookout over North Adams.

State: Massachusetts
Length: About 75 miles
Top elevation: Whitcomb Summit, 2,272 ft
Start / end: Athol – Williamstown (broadest definition)
Best season: Late spring to fall

What should you know before visiting Mohawk Trail (MA 2)?

Tolls and vignettes for a car: about $1 (MA).

The length depends on the definition. The broadest one gives about 75 miles (121 km), from Athol to the New York border at Williamstown.
Whitcomb Summit lies at 2,272 feet. West of it comes the hairpin turn with a lookout over North Adams.
Mohawk Trail State Forest in Charlemont has 53 campsites and 6 cabins. Campsites are open from mid-May through mid-October, and reservations are required.

The drive

From east to west, the route passes Orange, Greenfield, Shelburne, Buckland, Charlemont, Savoy and Florida to reach North Adams and Williamstown. Depending on the source, the trail starts only at Millers Falls, Greenfield or Charlemont. A section through Florida, Savoy and Charlemont has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1973. The climb to Whitcomb Summit and the bends beyond it are the core of the drive.

Camping

Mohawk Trail State Forest sits on Cold River Road in Charlemont. It has 53 campsites and 6 log cabins. Campsites are open from mid-May to mid-October, and reservations are required. The state has also offered reservation-only winter cabin stays, with no walk-ins, but the dates found were for 2024–25, so check the current season. The sources give no vehicle length details, so ask the Department of Conservation and Recreation.

FAQs

How long is the Mohawk Trail?

It depends on the definition. Broadly it is about 75 miles (121 km) from Athol to Williamstown. Narrower definitions begin only at Millers Falls, Greenfield or Charlemont.

Do I need a reservation at the state forest?

Yes. The park's page says campsites require a reservation. They are usually open from mid-May to mid-October. Check details and availability with the Department of Conservation and Recreation.

Where is the famous hairpin turn?

It lies on the western side of Whitcomb Summit, with a lookout over North Adams and the Taconic Mountains. It is a popular stop along the drive.

How much are the tolls on Mohawk Trail (MA 2)?

Tolls and vignettes for a car: about $1 (MA). Estimate with typical rates; motorhomes pay more, and vehicles over 3.5 t often pay by distance.