Franklin County, Massachusetts is located in the north-central part of the state and is home to a population of 71,372 people. This rural county borders the states of New Hampshire and Vermont and has an area of 690 square miles. According to dictionaryforall.com, Franklin County was established in 1811 from parts of Hampshire, Berkshire, and Worcester counties.
Franklin County is known for its rolling hills, covered bridges, and picturesque towns. The county also boasts several popular attractions like the Mohawk Trail State Forest which offers plenty of outdoor activities like camping, hiking, fishing, snowmobiling, and more. The historic village of Shelburne Falls is also a must-see destination with its unique shops and galleries as well as its world-famous Bridge of Flowers.
Franklin County is home to several notable people including author Nathaniel Hawthorne who wrote his novel The Scarlet Letter while living in Lenox; Nobel Prize winner Dr. Robert S. Mulliken who was born in Franklin; former Massachusetts Governor Michael Dukakis; musician John Mayer; actor Mark Wahlberg; author Stephen King; poet Emily Dickinson; astronaut Story Musgrave; former NFL quarterback Tom Brady; singer/songwriter James Taylor; and many more.
Franklin County has a lot to offer both visitors and locals alike. From its natural beauty to its rich cultural heritage there’s something for everyone in this quaint corner of Massachusetts.
Climate and weather in Franklin County, Massachusetts
According to mcat-test-centers.com, Franklin County, Massachusetts has a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid with temperatures reaching the high 80s and even the 90s on occasion. Winter temperatures can range from lows in the single digits to highs in the upper 30s and 40s, with snowfall averaging around 50 inches per year. Spring and fall are milder with temperatures ranging from the 40s to the 70s.
The county typically experiences long stretches of dry weather during the summer months followed by several days of rain in late July or early August. During winter months, ice storms are common as well as frequent snowstorms that can cause hazardous driving conditions. Despite its typical cold weather, Franklin County enjoys an average of 180 sunny days each year.
Precipitation levels vary throughout the county but generally range from 35-50 inches annually, with most of that falling between April and October. The area is also prone to severe weather such as thunderstorms, tornadoes, and floods which can cause extensive damage if precautions aren’t taken.
Franklin County has a wide variety of climates and weather patterns throughout the year which adds to its beauty and charm. From hot summers to cold winters there’s something for everyone no matter what season it is.
Transportation in Franklin County, Massachusetts
Franklin County, Massachusetts offers a variety of transportation options for its residents and visitors. The county is served by an extensive network of roads and highways, including the Massachusetts Turnpike, I-91, I-90, and Route 2. These highways make it easy to get around the county as well as to nearby cities such as Boston, Hartford, and Providence.
The county also has a reliable public transportation system that includes bus routes that run throughout the area. The Franklin Regional Transit Authority operates buses on twenty-two routes which serve major cities in the area as well as smaller towns in the county. There are also several shuttle services which provide door-to-door transportation to local destinations.
In addition to ground transportation options, Franklin County also has two airports – Westfield-Barnes Regional Airport and Pittsfield Municipal Airport – which offer flights to domestic and international destinations. There are also several Amtrak stations located throughout the county which offer convenient rail service to other cities in Massachusetts and beyond.
For those who prefer more active forms of transportation, there are a number of biking trails located throughout Franklin County that are perfect for leisurely rides or more challenging treks through the countryside. The county also has several scenic walking paths that offer views of its natural beauty as well as access to local attractions such as museums and historic sites.
Franklin County offers a variety of transportation options for both tourists and locals alike. Whether you’re looking for a quick way to get around town or an adventurous journey through some of Massachusetts’ most beautiful landscapes, you’ll find it here.
Cities and towns in Franklin County, Massachusetts
Franklin County, Massachusetts is home to a variety of charming and vibrant cities and towns. Located in the western part of the state, Franklin County is known for its beautiful scenery, history, and culture. Greenfield is the largest city in Franklin County, with a population of just over 17,000 people. It is home to many historical sites such as the Historic Deerfield Museum and the Greenfield Historical Society. The city also offers plenty of outdoor recreation activities including hiking trails along the Connecticut River and biking paths around town. See top 3 cities in Massachusetts.
Montague is another popular option for those looking to live in Franklin County. This small town has a population of just over 8,000 people and is home to several historical sites such as Montague Plains Wildlife Management Area and Old Deerfield Village. Nearby Montague Center offers plenty of local shops and restaurants for visitors to explore while they’re in town. There are also plenty of outdoor activities available such as boating on Lake Pleasant or fishing along the Deerfield River. Shelburne Falls is another great destination in Franklin County that offers plenty of activities like visiting Bridge Street Covered Bridge or taking a ride on The Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory & Gardens train ride. Further north lies Northampton which has a population of 28,000 people and serves as one of Massachusetts’ cultural hubs with its numerous art galleries, theaters, museums, music venues, restaurants, shops, and more all located within its city limits.