People come from all around to enjoy Massachusetts foliage. Why? Because the tree colors are vibrant, and the region is laden with history. Occasionally local residents forget just how remarkable this area can be.
Okay, so where can we find all this history and color? Here are a few thoughts.
- Walden Pond State Reservation. Maybe this National Historic Landmark in Concord is famous because of Henry David Thoreau’s book, but the area would still be magnificent even if Thoreau never wrote it. The reservation includes a deep, glacial pond, over 2,500 acres of mostly-untarnished woods, and connections to what is now known as the “conservation movement.” Walden Reservation belongs to the Massachusetts Forests and Parks System, and tours are available. The experience? Wonderful information and great foliage!
- Mount Auburn Cemetery. Okay, perhaps you cannot imagine being captivated by a burial ground, but Mount Auburn Cemetery in Cambridge will change all that. This amazing National Historic Landmark is an architectural wonder. Its horticulture collection, gothic buildings, plethora of shrubs and trees, mirror-like ponds, and small, rolling hills make it a place where romance lives. An impressive number of esteemed individuals are buried there, and tranquility describes the exploring experience. And the foliage? Typically breathtaking!
- Mohawk Trail (The Indian Trail). This 60-plus mile ride along Route 2 is clearly one of the most traveled foliage destinations. Why? The scenery is fabulous, and the history is intriguing. A distinguished travel spot for both the Indians and early settlers, the Mohawk Trail is now considered a scenic route by Massachusetts legislation. In fact, The National Geographic Traveler deemed the Mohawk Trail one of the most scenic travel ways in America! What’s there to see along the drive? Summits, monuments, a famous “hairpin” turn, covered bridges, and, well, awesome foliage!
- Quabbin Reservoir. This man-made water supply distributes the drinking water to assorted Massachusetts areas, including Boston. The basin is located in Belchertown and boasts a visitors’ center, observation tower, workshops, and other interesting offerings. If you go, be sure to catch the amazing waterways, aqueducts, hiking trails, bike paths, mountain views, and fabulous array of woods filled with wildlife. Two lookouts offer unsurpassed views, and the scenery is awesome!
Fall foliage will soon be peaking, but there is still time to enjoy. So, get out and explore!
