Is there a bus to Amherst?

No, there is no direct bus service from Lenox to Amherst.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes.

No, MA-9 is a toll-free state highway.

Is it a scenic route?

Yes, it is one of the most beautiful drives in Western Massachusetts.

No, there is no direct rail service between these two towns.

Lenox

Amherst

Driving

Lenox to Amherst

Updated: 28 May 2026

The drive from Lenox to Amherst covers 70 kilometers across the heart of the Berkshires and the Pioneer Valley. You will take MA-9 East, a scenic route that winds through small towns like Cummington and Williamsburg. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. You will experience the transition from the high-elevation Berkshires to the flat, fertile valley floor.

Total Distance: 70 km driving distance; 55 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via MA-9 is the fastest, taking 70 minutes.

Cheapest Way

Driving your own car is the most economical option, costing about 10 dollars.

Compare Lenox to Amherst Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

1 hour 10 mins

Avg Price

8-12 USD

Operator

Personal Vehicle

Route

MA-9 E.

MA-9 is a beautiful but winding road; drive with caution.

Travel Tips

Road Conditions
MA-9 can be slow during winter storms due to its elevation changes.
Navigation
The route is straightforward, but keep an eye out for sharp turns in the hill towns.
Parking
Use the town parking lots near the Amherst Common for easy access to shops.
Fueling
Fill up in Lenox or Northampton, as gas stations are limited in the hill towns.
Timing
Avoid the Friday afternoon student move-in/out traffic if possible.

Safety Tips

Wildlife
Watch for moose and deer crossing the road in the wooded sections of MA-9.
Visibility
Use fog lights if traveling early in the morning through the valley.
Emergency
Cell service is reliable on most of MA-9, but keep a backup charger.
Speeding
Local police frequently monitor speed limits in the small towns along the route.