Norðradalur Hairpin Viewpoint
Iconic hairpin turn on the Mohawk Trail, famous for its dramatic curves and spectacular fall foliage views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak fall colors & golden hour
Norðradalur Hairpin Viewpoint
Best Time
Peak fall colors & golden hour
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic hairpin turn on the Mohawk Trail, famous for its dramatic curves and spectacular fall foliage views.
"The Hairpin Turn offers one of the most iconic and breathtaking views on the Mohawk Trail, especially in autumn."
🚗 Pull Over Safely
Designated pull-offs are available, but be cautious of traffic on this scenic route. :car:
📸 Drone Photography
Many capture epic aerial shots here, especially during fall. Check local regulations. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Hairpin Turn
Route 2, North Adams, MA
A dramatic curve on the Mohawk Trail offering sweeping vistas, especially stunning during fall foliage.
Panoramic Fall Foliage
Along Route 2
Witness the Berkshire Hills ablaze with color during autumn. A photographer's paradise for vibrant landscapes.
Spectacular Sunsets
Hairpin Turn viewpoint
This spot is renowned for its breathtaking sunsets, painting the sky with vibrant hues over the mountains.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Best Views
Capture the Iconic Mohawk Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Pull Over Safely
Designated pull-offs are available, but be cautious of traffic on this scenic route. :car:
📸 Drone Photography
Many capture epic aerial shots here, especially during fall. Check local regulations. :camerawithflash:
🍂 Peak Foliage Season
Visit in October for the most vibrant fall colors. Book accommodations early! :fallen_leaf:
🌅 Sunset Views
The Hairpin Turn is a prime spot for stunning sunset vistas. Arrive early for the best spots. :city_sunset:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Pull Over Safely
Designated pull-offs are available, but be cautious of traffic on this scenic route. :car:
📸 Drone Photography
Many capture epic aerial shots here, especially during fall. Check local regulations. :camerawithflash:
🍂 Peak Foliage Season
Visit in October for the most vibrant fall colors. Book accommodations early! :fallen_leaf:
🌅 Sunset Views
The Hairpin Turn is a prime spot for stunning sunset vistas. Arrive early for the best spots. :city_sunset:
🏍️ Motorcycle Rides
A popular route for motorcycle enthusiasts, especially in spring and fall. :motorcycle:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Hairpin Turn's stunning scenic beauty, especially during the vibrant fall foliage season. The dramatic curve of the road and the panoramic mountain views are consistently praised. Some note that it can get crowded, particularly on weekends in autumn, and advise caution due to traffic.
"The Bøur Panoramic Viewpoint on Vágar Island offers one of the Faroe Islands' most iconic and dramatic vistas. The dock or hillside above the harbor provides the widest sightlines. For photography, late afternoon light enhances the cliffs and sea stacks. You can clearly see the Tindhólmur and Drangarnir Sea Stacks. Tindhólmur An uninhabited islet with five distinct, castle-like peaks rising from the North Atlantic. Its jagged cliffs and rich birdlife (including puffins in summer) create a mythical silhouette. Drangarnir Twin sea stacks forming a natural arch. The larger stack ("Stóri Drangur") appears to pierce the ocean, while the smaller one ("Lítli Drangur") frames the view toward Tindhólmur. This is a premier photography spot, especially at sunset. Also the valley of Gásadalur (accessible via a tunnel) unfolds to the west, with its emerald slopes and clustered village. The Múlafossur Waterfall is faintly visible cascading 30 meters into the ocean—a sublime backdrop. On clear days, Mykines Island emerges on the horizon, crowned by a "cloud hat". Visit the Traditional Village of Bøur. It’s Turf-Roofed Houses Historic 19th-century cottages with grass roofs, clustered along narrow lanes. The 1865 Bøur Church (wooden, with an iron altarpiece) anchors the village. The dock area provides unobstructed ocean views. Nearby, Pakkhúsið í Bø (1861 storage house) occasionally serves as a café in summer. Heart-Shaped Lake (Vatnsdalsvatn) A 1.5-hour hike (3 km round-trip) east of Bøur leads to this hidden lake, offering elevated views of Tindhólmur and Mykines.
Bøur’s viewpoint encapsulates the Faroes’ raw beauty—an essential stop for its fusion of cultural heritage and otherworldly seascapes."
Weaning Ping
"Amazing viewpoint just from the side of the road that takes you to Gásadalur on Vágar Island in the Faroe Islands.
Just 200 meters before turning left to go down to the village of Bøur you stop your car where you can and you can admire these 4 beautiful turf-roofed houses and in the distance the Drangarnir sea stacks (the larger one has even an arch in it) and the Thindolmur Island.
Otherworldly landscape.
#faroeislands #vagar #viewpoint #seastacks #landscape"
Stefano Prina
"The view is very iconic for Faroe Islands but it’s even better from the other side of huts"
Agata XYZ
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hairpin Turn is located on Route 2 in North Adams, Massachusetts, a well-known section of the historic Mohawk Trail. It's easily accessible by car, with designated pull-off areas for parking and enjoying the view. 
Public transportation options directly to the Hairpin Turn viewpoint are limited. It's best accessed by private vehicle. Consider ride-sharing services if you're not driving.
The Mohawk Trail is a scenic highway with many curves, including the famous hairpin turn. Drive cautiously, especially during peak seasons or inclement weather.
Yes, there are designated pull-off areas and parking spots along Route 2 near the Hairpin Turn. However, these can fill up quickly, especially during peak foliage season.
The Mohawk Trail is a popular route for cyclists and motorcyclists. The hairpin turn offers a unique challenge and rewarding views for two-wheeled travelers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to visit the Hairpin Turn viewpoint. It's a public roadside attraction, making it a free and accessible scenic stop.
For photography, aim for late afternoon during the 'golden hour' for soft, warm light. Autumn offers vibrant foliage, while sunsets can be spectacular.
There are no specific facilities like restrooms or shops directly at the Hairpin Turn viewpoint itself. You'll find amenities in nearby North Adams.
The Hairpin Turn is accessible year-round, but winter conditions can make driving on Route 2 challenging. Autumn is the most popular season due to the foliage.
You can stop and take photos at any time, but be mindful of traffic and use the designated pull-off areas for safety.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
From the roadside pull-offs, you get a great view of the curve. For a more dramatic perspective, consider using a drone to capture the full sweep of the road and surrounding landscape.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscape. If you have a drone, it offers unique aerial perspectives. Don't forget a tripod for low-light or sunset shots.
The fall foliage is a must-capture. Sunsets here are also legendary. If you're lucky enough to be there when it's quiet, a top-down drone shot can be incredible.
Late afternoon, especially during the golden hour before sunset, provides the most flattering light. Autumn colors are most vibrant in the mid-morning and afternoon.
There are no specific restrictions on personal photography at the Hairpin Turn. However, always be aware of your surroundings and do not obstruct traffic. Drone usage may be subject to local regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
During fall, the vibrant colors are a huge draw and can be a fun way to teach children about nature. Pack some snacks and drinks, as there are no facilities directly at the viewpoint. It's a great spot for a quick stop to stretch legs and take memorable family photos.
🏍️ Motorcycle & Cycling Enthusiasts
+1 The hairpin itself is a thrilling section to navigate, offering a sense of accomplishment and incredible views. Spring and fall are particularly popular times for riders to explore this area, with pleasant weather and beautiful scenery. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and be mindful of other traffic, as the road can be busy. Pull-offs are available for breaks and photo opportunities.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
+1 Drone footage is particularly popular here, showcasing the scale and beauty of the landscape from above. Aim for the golden hour for the best light, and consider visiting on a weekday to minimize crowds and maximize your shooting time. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, which can add to the dramatic atmosphere of your shots.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mohawk Trail: A Scenic Drive
+1Beyond the Hairpin Turn, the Mohawk Trail offers numerous other scenic overlooks, hiking opportunities, and charming small towns. It's a journey that invites you to slow down and appreciate the natural beauty of Western Massachusetts. Whether you're driving, cycling, or motorcycling, the Mohawk Trail promises an unforgettable experience.
+1Key attractions along the trail include the Hairpin Turn viewpoint, various state forests for hiking, and historic sites. The road itself is an experience, with its winding nature and ever-changing vistas. It's a perfect destination for a day trip or a longer scenic drive, especially during the autumn months.
+1Capturing the Perfect Shot: Photography at the Hairpin Turn
+1Many visitors utilize drones to capture unique aerial perspectives of the hairpin turn and the surrounding scenery. These shots often showcase the full sweep of the road and the vastness of the landscape, providing a dramatic and memorable view.
+1 However, even without a drone, the roadside pull-offs offer excellent vantage points for capturing stunning photographs. A wide-angle lens is recommended to encompass the expansive views. When planning your photography session, consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the largest crowds, allowing for more unobstructed shots. Be patient, as the light can change rapidly, and the weather can influence the mood of your photographs. Remember to always prioritize safety when stopping along this scenic route.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit