Come fall, the sugar maples in the surrounding mixed hardwood forest add a blaze of brilliant orange to the landscape, making Route 2 a favorite of leaf-peepers between the end of September and Columbus Day weekend. But if sharing the two-lane road with thousands of rubbernecking drivers becomes wearisome, consider taking a road less-traveled. Almost any road will do, but a loop along Route 116 through Ashfield and Conway, a few miles south of Route 2, passes over several historic covered bridges and offers enough pastoral beauty to more than compensate for the detours.
Shunning the main highway doesn’t require skipping meals, either. For instance, there are thin-crust whole pizzas and slices at the Countrypie Pizza Company (open daily till 9 pm; 413/628-4488), at 343 Main Street across from Ashfield’s public library. Given the fresh fancy toppings available, the prices are a real steal. Or coast down Route 116 to Baker’s Country Store (413/369-4936), just east of Conway’s old water tower, and sit down to a simple soup or sandwich amid the fishing tackle and canned goods. If you like your pastry crusts short and white, be sure to sample the fresh pies, particularly in the summer during berry season.
