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.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.8 · 65 reviews
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.
That bend always makes me nervous! But such a beautiful view
📸 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.
Been there, seen that. Has got to be one of the hair raisingest turns in the North East! The only worst one I've seen personally was on Rt. 10, I think near Ca. in the 70's. No guard rails, looking out over the edge of a cliff, the house and barn looked to be about the size of…
Shot I got in North Adam’s (Route 2/Mohawk Trail)
Can anyone explain why that sign? I've been to Switzerland and while the hair pin turn in North Adams is cool, it's certainly no Switzerland.
📍 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?
I’m driving from Boston Logan to the Berkshires for a brief weekend trip in a few weeks. Any recommendations on nice places to stop on the trip? I’d love scenic views, good coffee shops/restaurants, or fall activities :) Edit: Thank you all!! This is so helpful and I…
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit