Along Route Two, the Mohawk Trail, you'll soon pass through the quaint rural village of Charlemont. The town's name has been changed several times in the interest of upward mobility. The settlement began life Chickley's Town. Later, this was changed to Charley's Mount, which became frenchified to Charlemont. Look for the historical marker for"Shunpike", a toll bridge that cheapskate yankees preferred to wade around rather than pay a toll. This action added fuel to the successful "free roads" campaign at the beginning of the 19th century. Music lovers will want to seek out the acoustically perfect Charlemont Federated Church, where concerts are held May to October. Even if you can't stay for a concert, the program is very interesting.

Further along the road, you'll drive through the Mohawk Trail State Forest whose 6,457 acres abut the 10,500 acre Savoy State Forest, forming the largest tract is open space in Western Massachusetts. Many of the old Indian trails still exist here, including a portion of the original Mohawk Trail footpath. With 18 miles of rivers and streams flowing through it, the Mohawk Forest is famous for its trout fishing. If you make it over to the Savoy Mountain State Forest, you'll want to seek out the half mile hiking trail that leads to Tannery Falls, an 80 foot cascade that tumbles eventfully over cliffs and ledges. You can stay overnight at the 45 unit campsites, located in an old apple orchard. For real luxury, especially in the winter, rent one of the three log cabins with stone chimneys overlooking South Pond. The cabins can be reserved up to six months in advance.