Page "Pioneer Valley" Paragraph 10

Franklin County is the most rural county in Massachusetts and thus reminiscent of southern Vermont, which it borders.

Greenfield is its largest municipality, a small city frequently used as a gateway to the region's many outdoor pursuits.

The county offers downhill skiing at resorts such as Berkshire East, white-water rafting, zip-lining, hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor pursuits.

In addition, Franklin County contains many rustic, former mill towns.

Many of these have become quaint and scenic since the decline of the mills, ( e. g., Turners Falls.

) Massachusetts's Routes 2 and 2A, which run through Franklin County, feature many antique stores.