Getting Around: Berkshires

Public Transportation Overview

The Berkshire Regional Transit Authority (BRTA) is the main public bus system. Its services work well within towns, but there are limitations for comprehensive regional exploration due to coverage and frequency.

The Intermodal Transportation Center in Pittsfield acts as a central hub for BRTA buses and Amtrak train services.

Transit Details

BRTA mainly serves Pittsfield, connecting to towns like Lenox, Great Barrington, North Adams.
Route maps and schedules are on the BRTA website.
Standard cash fare is $1.75 per ride; exact change is good.
Buses operate weekdays (early morning to late evening) and reduced Saturday service. No Sunday service.

Accessibility

All BRTA buses are wheelchair accessible, making travel easier for mobility needs.

Navigating Tips

Plan trips using the BRTA schedule. Combine bus travel with walking or ride-shares. Have exact change ready.

Money-Saving Passes

Multi-ride passes and monthly passes are options for frequent bus users within a town.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxi Services

Licensed taxis in larger towns (Pittsfield, Lenox, Great Barrington).
Call local taxi companies for pick-up; street hailing is rare.
Fares vary by company and distance; confirm metered or flat rate.

Ride-Sharing Uber & Lyft

Available in more populated areas like Pittsfield, Lenox, Great Barrington.
Availability and wait times limited in rural areas or off-peak hours.
Do not rely solely on them for early morning or late-night travel.

Safety Considerations

Licensed Taxis

Ensure taxi is licensed and driver ID displayed.

Confirm Fare

Confirm fare method before beginning the trip.

Ride-Sharing Match

Confirm driver name, vehicle, and license plate match the app.

Share Trip

Share trip details with a trusted contact using the app's features.

Rental Options

Renting a car is the most highly recommended method for thoroughly exploring the Berkshires, offering unmatched flexibility for scattered attractions.

Car Rental Specifics

Valid driver's license (U.S. Or International Driving Permit).
Major credit card in renter's name.
Minimum age for rental is typically 21, fees may apply for drivers under 25.
Advance booking is highly recommended for peak seasons.

Other Rental Vehicles

Motorcycle and scooter rentals have limited availability, often through specialty shops.
Bicycle rentals are available from local bike shops in warmer months.
Specialty vehicle options like tuk-tuks or jeepneys are not present.
Interstate highways are off-limits to pedestrians and cyclists.

Driving Laws & Road Conditions

Standard U.S. Driving laws apply; drive on the right.
Seatbelts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
Speed limits are posted (typically 25-35 mph in towns, 40-55 mph rural, 65 mph highways).

Roads are generally well-maintained, but winter can bring snow and ice.
Rural roads are winding and hilly, may be unlit at night.
Drive cautiously at dawn/dusk for wildlife.

Parking & Safety

Parking Availability

Ample parking is available, often free, in most towns and at attractions.

Busy Area Parking

Some towns, especially in peak season, may have paid lots or metered street parking.

Driving Safety

Consider a Car phone mount for safe smartphone navigation.

Walking & Cycling

The Berkshires offer pleasant opportunities for walking and cycling, especially in town centers and on dedicated trails.

Pedestrian Areas

Most downtown areas of towns like Lenox, Stockbridge, Great Barrington, and Williamstown are very walkable.
They feature sidewalks, crosswalks, and inviting streetscapes.
Many state parks and natural areas provide extensive walking trails for various fitness levels.
Some historical societies offer guided walking tours focusing on history or architecture; inquire at visitor centers.

Cycling Infrastructure & Safety

Ashuwillticook Rail Trail is a paved, multi-use trail for cycling, connecting Pittsfield to Lanesborough and Cheshire.
Other scenic rural roads are popular with cyclists, but many lack dedicated bike lanes.
Always wear a helmet when cycling. Be aware of vehicle traffic, especially on narrow or winding roads without shoulders.
Bright clothing and lights are good, specifically at dawn or dusk.

No-Go Areas & Specialized Transport

Pedestrian/Cycling Restrictions

Interstate highways (like I-90) are off-limits to pedestrians and cyclists.

Avoid busy state routes lacking safe shoulders.

Tour Buses

No formal hop-on-hop-off services. Private companies offer guided full/half-day tours focusing on foliage, history, or culture.

These are pre-booked tours, not flexible transit.

Unique Local Transport

The Berkshires have no boat taxis, cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport systems.

Focus on car, bus, train, or bike.

Accessibility Services

BRTA & Attractions

BRTA buses are wheelchair accessible.
Many major attractions, museums, and larger hotels offer accessibility features.
Compliance with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) standards is common.

Planning Ahead

Contact specific venues or accommodations in advance.
Confirm their accessibility features.
Discuss any specific mobility needs you may have.

Takeaways for Getting Around

A rental car provides the best freedom for comprehensive exploration.
Public transport (BRTA) is limited outside Pittsfield's core.
Ride-shares can be sparse in rural areas or off-hours.
Winter driving requires caution and potentially specialized vehicle features.

Scenic roads are ideal for driving, but check conditions.
Town centers are great for walking.
Rail trails offer pleasant cycling routes.
Plan specific routes in advance for activities outside major towns.

Final Recommendation

A rental car truly unlocks the full Berkshire experience.

It lets you explore the diverse attractions, natural areas, and charming towns at your own pace, without relying on limited public transport schedules.

Getting Around