Insider Tips for Photographing Fall Foliage in the Berkshires

Why Photograph the Berkshires in Fall?

The Berkshires in western Massachusetts are one of the best places in New England to capture fall foliage. Rolling mountains, small historic towns, and iconic hiking trails all glow in shades of orange, red, and gold each autumn. But to take home photos that truly stand out, you’ll want to plan around the light, locations, and even the rules about where you can (and can’t) use drones.

Here’s your guide to capturing breathtaking Berkshires foliage photos like a pro.

Best Time of Day for Foliage Photography

The golden hours — just after sunrise and just before sunset — are the sweet spot for photographing fall colors. Early mornings offer:

• Soft, warm light that makes foliage pop without harsh glare.

• Mist and fog in valleys, adding atmosphere and depth.

• Quieter trails and overlooks with fewer crowds.

Sunrise hikes at places like Monument Mountain or Olivia’s Overlook reward photographers with glowing light on the hillsides. Overcast days are also excellent, as clouds act like a natural diffuser, deepening the richness of the leaves.

Top Sunset Spots in the Berkshires

For evening color, head to these top locations:

• Olivia’s Overlook (Richmond/Lenox): A classic sunset vantage point with sweeping valley views.

• Bash Bish Falls (South Egremont): The tallest waterfall in Massachusetts surrounded by autumn color. Evening light makes the cliffs glow.

• Summit of Mount Greylock (Adams): At 3,491 feet, this is the highest point in Massachusetts, offering panoramic foliage views that stretch into five states.

Bring a tripod for stability as the light fades, and consider bracketing your exposures for more dynamic range in your sunset shots.

Drone Photography Rules in the Berkshires

If you’re hoping to fly a drone for foliage photography, know the rules first:

• Massachusetts State Parks: Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), most state parks prohibit drone flights unless you have special permission.

• Mount Greylock State Reservation: No drones are allowed.

• Bash Bish Falls State Park: Drone flights are prohibited.

• General FAA rules apply: Always register your drone, keep it under 400 feet, and maintain line-of-sight.

If you want aerial shots, stick to areas outside of state-managed lands, and always check local regulations before you fly.

Pro Tips for Stunning Berkshires Foliage Shots

• Go early or late: Sunrise and sunset bring the best light and fewer people.

• Pack light but smart: A wide-angle lens for landscapes, a polarizer to cut glare, and a tripod for stability.

• Look for water reflections: Lakes and rivers (like Laurel Lake or the Housatonic River) double your foliage in one frame.

• Capture scale: Include barns, winding roads, or people in your photos to show just how vast the colors are.

• Embrace bad weather: Rain or fog can create moody, unforgettable shots

Final Thoughts

The Berkshires in autumn are a photographer’s dream — but the difference between snapshots and truly stunning photos comes down to timing, preparation, and respecting the rules. Shoot in the golden hours, head to top overlooks like Mount Greylock or Olivia’s Overlook, and pack the right gear. Even if you leave the drone at home, you’ll return with images that capture the magic of fall in the Berkshires.