Massachusetts is full of winding streets and beautiful country roads. It’s pretty much the perfect state for a road trip in any season, especially if you opt to take this under-appreciated scenic drive. Here’s all you need to know about traveling the Central Hills Loop.
The Central Hills Loop will take you from New Salem through some of the most glorious scenery in the state.
Flickr/DR Davis If you’re looking for the perfect Sunday drive, this may be it. The Central Hills Loop will take you through the towns of Pelham, Belchertown, Ware, Hardwick, Nichewaug, and Petersham before depositing you back in New Salem. Along the way, you’ll be able to enjoy some truly stunning natural scenery.
It’s a 57-mile journey that can be completed in any season, but is at its most beautiful in the fall.
Flickr/D.R. Davis Prepare to be entranced by the sparkling waters of the beautiful Quabbin Reservoir as you make your way through the rolling hills of Central Massachusetts. You’ll also catch glimpses of strange rock formations along the side of the road, not to mention spectacular foliage and greenery in the fall and spring.
Hamilton Orchards is a great spot to take a break and indulge in some seasonal treats.
Google/Matthew Brunelle If you’re taking this drive in the spring, summer, or fall, be sure to stop by Hamilton Orchards in New Salem at the end or beginning of your trip. They offer fresh fruit in season, homemade pies, apple dumplings, cider, and doughnuts. You can also pick up a few jars of homemade jam or satisfy your sweet tooth with a bottle of maple syrup or box of fresh fudge. (25 West St., New Salem)
Don’t forget to pull over and enjoy the charming covered bridge in Hardwick.
Goole/CL Frew This perfect little covered bridge in Hardwick is the ultimate spot for a mid-drive pit stop. You can pack a few snacks to enjoy by the water or simply walk across the bridge and admire the natural splendor of the area.
You can expect to spend about an hour and a half round-trip on this scenic drive. Every minute is worth it!
You can find a map of this scenic route and driving directions here. For more of the best road trips in the state, check out some of our favorites.
Flickr/DR Davis
If you’re looking for the perfect Sunday drive, this may be it. The Central Hills Loop will take you through the towns of Pelham, Belchertown, Ware, Hardwick, Nichewaug, and Petersham before depositing you back in New Salem. Along the way, you’ll be able to enjoy some truly stunning natural scenery.
Flickr/D.R. Davis
Prepare to be entranced by the sparkling waters of the beautiful Quabbin Reservoir as you make your way through the rolling hills of Central Massachusetts. You’ll also catch glimpses of strange rock formations along the side of the road, not to mention spectacular foliage and greenery in the fall and spring.
Google/Matthew Brunelle
If you’re taking this drive in the spring, summer, or fall, be sure to stop by Hamilton Orchards in New Salem at the end or beginning of your trip. They offer fresh fruit in season, homemade pies, apple dumplings, cider, and doughnuts. You can also pick up a few jars of homemade jam or satisfy your sweet tooth with a bottle of maple syrup or box of fresh fudge. (25 West St., New Salem)
Goole/CL Frew
This perfect little covered bridge in Hardwick is the ultimate spot for a mid-drive pit stop. You can pack a few snacks to enjoy by the water or simply walk across the bridge and admire the natural splendor of the area.
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