Historic auto trails predate the U.S. highway system created in 1926. Such trails were usually given evocative names and marked with colored bands painted on utility poles. Western Massachusetts is endowed with many scenic historic auto trails. These trails were popular with residents and visitors, and generally crossed the Berkshire Hills and related ranges. They therefore typically follow an eastwest direction. Early tourist maps and brochures of the Berkshires promoted these scenic roads. The trails continued to be marketed as scenic attractions long after highways were numbered; and, indeed, until the present day.

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