U.S. Route 7, a mostly two-lane rural road stretching through Western Connecticut and Massachusetts, provides a less crowded option for viewing fall foliage. This route reaches its peak color in mid-October and early November. It offers scenic views, charming towns, and historical sites, making it an alternative to more congested New England leaf-peeping destinations.
Key Takeaways
- U.S. Route 7 provides a quieter fall foliage experience compared to other popular New England routes.
- The route spans Western Connecticut and Massachusetts, offering diverse attractions.
- Peak foliage viewing is expected from mid-October to early November.
- Travelers can find charming lodgings, local restaurants, and historical sites.
- Activities include hiking, e-biking, kayaking, and visiting cultural museums.
A Different Path for Fall Colors
U.S. Route 7 has been recognized by the Old Farmer's Almanac as one of the top 20 fall color destinations in the United States this year. Despite this recognition, it remains less traveled than other well-known routes like Vermont's Route 100 or New Hampshire's Kancamagus Highway. This allows visitors to enjoy the autumn scenery without large crowds.
The road offers a traditional New England fall experience. It features vibrant foliage, picturesque landscapes, and a sense of discovery. Travelers can explore the region at their own pace, making the trip more personal and engaging.
"If you’re looking for a fall trip that feels like yours alone — where you can wander, explore, and discover at your own pace — Route 7 really is the perfect drive I’d send you on," said Rachel Lenda, director of tourism for the Connecticut Office of Statewide Marketing and Tourism. She added that U.S. 7 "winds through river valleys, covered bridges and storybook towns that most visitors never stumble upon" with "no traffic to distract you from the view."
Connecticut's Scenic Stretch of Route 7
The Connecticut portion of U.S. Route 7 begins in Norwalk and continues for 78 miles. It follows the Housatonic River Valley, passing through several small towns. These communities offer unique attractions and a peaceful atmosphere. The route provides opportunities for outdoor activities and cultural exploration.
Fact: Peak Foliage Timing
In Western Connecticut and Massachusetts, U.S. Route 7 typically experiences its most vibrant fall colors from mid-October to early November. This timing allows for planning optimal viewing experiences.
Newtown Area Attractions
Near Newtown, about 10 miles east of U.S. 7, lies Castle Hill Farm. This 100-acre family farm offers various harvest activities. Visitors can enjoy fresh produce, a petting zoo, and a 7-acre corn maze. During October weekends, the farm hosts a fall festival, complete with apple cider doughnuts and pumpkin picking. The festival runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with admission prices ranging from $5 to $13.
According to Stephanie Paproski-Kearns, a family member, "We have a very special hayride out to the cow pasture and see the cows from the wagon." This adds a unique element to the farm visit.
Brookfield Craft Center
In Brookfield, the Brookfield Craft Center provides an opportunity to explore local artistry. The gift store features handcrafted items such as ornaments, jewelry, pottery, and fiber works. The center also offers adult classes in woodworking, sculpture, weaving, jewelry-making, and blacksmithing. Registration is required for classes, with prices starting at $29. A gallery displays works from 150 different artists.
Kent Falls State Park
Further north, in Kent, travelers can visit Kent Falls State Park. This park is known for its cascading waterfalls. A paved path leads through a red covered bridge, and stone stairs offer views of the falls. This is a popular spot for stretching legs and enjoying nature. The park operates daily from 8 a.m. to sunset. Entry costs range from $10 to $15.
After a hike, Kent Falls Brewing Co., a working farmhouse brewery, offers refreshments. Visitors can enjoy tastings of ale, lager, or IPA. Leashed dogs are permitted in the outdoor area around the tasting room.
Cornwall and Outdoor Adventures
Litchfield County, located in Connecticut’s northwest corner, is a prime location for fall foliage. West Cornwall is home to the Historic West Cornwall Covered Bridge, a 172-foot long, 15-foot-wide structure that has served traffic for nearly 160 years. This landmark crosses the Housatonic River.
For active exploration, Covered Bridge Electric Bike offers e-bike rentals for ages 16 and older. Rentals cost $60 for two hours. Spencer Bousquet from the bike shop noted, "We give everyone a map that takes them on River Road along the Housatonic River. It’s really nice in the fall and the trail ends in Falls Village, which connects to the Appalachian Trail." Additionally, Clarke Outdoors provides canoe, kayak, or raft rentals for paddling on the Housatonic River. After water activities, visitors can browse shops and galleries in West Cornwall's center.
Massachusetts: Berkshires and History
As U.S. Route 7 continues into Massachusetts, it passes through the Berkshire Mountains and historical communities. This section of the route is rich in cultural treasures and natural wonders.
"There’s something timeless about traveling U.S. Route 7," said Kate Fox, executive director at the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism. She highlighted that "Along the way, travelers can explore cultural treasures, natural wonders and iconic American landmarks."
Great Barrington: W.E.B. Du Bois Site
In Great Barrington, the W.E.B. Du Bois National Historic Site offers self-guided tours from dawn to dusk. This site honors the boyhood home of the renowned author and civil rights leader. A woodland path with interpretive signs leads to the location where Du Bois’s home once stood. Admission is free.
Historical Context: W.E.B. Du Bois
William Edward Burghardt Du Bois (1868–1963) was an American sociologist, historian, civil rights activist, Pan-Africanist, author, and editor. He was a prominent figure in the early 20th-century African-American civil rights movement and a co-founder of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).
Stockbridge: Norman Rockwell Museum
Stockbridge is home to the Norman Rockwell Museum, a significant destination for American art enthusiasts. The museum houses one of the largest collections of original paintings and drawings by Norman Rockwell. Rockwell, a legendary illustrator, lived in Stockbridge for the last 25 years of his life. Tours of Rockwell's carriage barn studio are also available. Admission is $35.
Lenox: The Mount, Edith Wharton's Estate
In Lenox, visitors can tour The Mount, the country home of writer Edith Wharton. Wharton was the first woman to win a Pulitzer Prize. House and garden tours showcase the impressive mansion and its history. Admission costs $22.
Pittsfield: Shaker Village and Melville's Home
Pittsfield offers a glimpse into 19th-century life at Hancock Shaker Village. This preserved 750-acre "living history museum" was once a religious community known for its craftsmanship and simplicity. It features displays of unique Shaker furniture, a mile-long hiking trail, and a working farm with gardens and livestock. Admission is $20 for adults and $8 for ages 13-17.
Arrowhead, also known as the Herman Melville House, is another historical site. The celebrated 19th-century author, known for "Moby Dick," lived here with 11 family members. The house, now home to the Berkshire County Historical Society, offers tours of rooms restored to Melville’s era, featuring artifacts owned by his family, such as his traveling trunks. Admission is $20.
Downtown Pittsfield also provides a lively scene with art, shopping, dining, and entertainment on North Street, part of the Upstreet Cultural District. Visitors can download a digital tour of local sights, including 30 outdoor murals. For refreshments, Hot Plate Brewing Co. serves draft IPAs, pizza, and pretzel snacks, and hosts trivia nights.
Adams: Mount Greylock and Scenic Railway
Adams is home to Mount Greylock, the highest point in Massachusetts at 3,491 feet. The summit offers sweeping views, providing a 90-mile panorama of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can drive to Greylock’s Veterans War Memorial Tower for a quintessential New England outdoor experience.
The Berkshire Scenic Railway offers a charming ride through the region’s history and landscapes. During peak season, the railway runs Fall Foliage Trains. These vintage diesel-powered locomotives provide a one-hour, 10-mile journey through northern Berkshire County. Departures are from Adams Station on October 18, 25, and 26. Tickets cost $24 for adults and $13 for ages 3-12.
- Mount Greylock: Highest point in Massachusetts.
- Berkshire Scenic Railway: Fall foliage train rides in October.
