Discover the Best Ways to View Fall Foliage

Every autumn the Western White Mountains transforms into a breathtaking tapestry of golds, oranges and reds.

Discover the Best Ways to View Fall Foliage in the Western White Mountains

As autumn sweeps through the Western White Mountains, the region transforms into a breathtaking tapestry of vibrant reds, oranges, and golds. Whether you’re a leaf-peeping enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy the crisp mountain air, there are countless ways to experience the beauty of fall foliage in this stunning area. From scenic drives to thrilling aerial views, here are some of the best ways to take in the season’s splendor.

Fall Scenic Drives

The Western White Mountains are home to some of the best fall foliage scenic drives in the world. There’s a reason thousands of people flock to the region every year to view the incredible kaleidoscope of colors. For the ultimate Western White Mountains road trip, fill up your tank, grab a sweater, lots of snacks, and hit the road.

The Multi-Notch Mountain Ride is approximately 142 miles long and will take you through the best of the White Mountains. Start your journey in Lincoln on I-93 through Franconia Notch State Park and past the former Old Man of the Mountain. Just before Littleton, take the exit to Route 302 and drive through the quaint town of Bethlehem before driving past the majestic Mount Washington Hotel. There are plenty of scenic lookout spots to stop along the way to take your selfies or photos of trees bursting with color. Once past the infamous hotel, you’ll drive through Crawford Notch with the Presidential Range looming overhead. From here, choose to take the Bear Notch Road in Bartlett to the Kancamagus Highway or drive through North Conway and stop for lunch. From Conway, turn west on to Route 112 as known as the Kancamagus Highway, which offers 34.5 miles of breathtaking mountain scenery through the White Mountain National Forest.

The Weeks Act Legacy Trail, a “multimedia driving tour of the White Mountain National Forest guiding visitors to 40 sites across 100 miles”, is nearly the same route as the Multi-Notch Mountain Ride, but includes “an online virtual, mobile, audio or print tour spanning the White Mountains’ famous notches and byways with stops at 40 sites – some well-known signature destinations, others hidden gems”, according to the White Mountain National Forest. Make sure to cross reference these two routes to ensure you don’t miss a selfie-worthy roadside stop!

Keep in mind that parking is limited in areas, and you should avoid parking on the highways or busy roads.

A classic way to enjoy the fall colors is by taking a leisurely drive along the Kancamagus Highway or Franconia Notch Parkway. These scenic routes wind through some of the most picturesque landscapes in New England, offering numerous pull-offs and overlooks to admire the colorful canopy. Traffic can get heavy over the weekends, opt for a midweek trip for a less crowded trip. Keep in mind that parking is limited in areas, and you should avoid parking on the highways or busy roads.

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Fall Hikes

For those who prefer to explore on foot, hiking trails such as Lonesome Lake, Artist’s Bluff, and Mount Pemigewasset provide panoramic vistas that showcase the vibrant foliage against the rugged mountain backdrop. Each trail offers a unique perspective, making them perfect for hikers of all skill levels. Plan head and arrive early. Follow signs for parking as these are very popular hikes. For an easy hike for the whole family, the Lincoln Woods Trail is a flat 2.7-mile trail that meanders along the East Branch of the Pemigewasset River.

For epic fall views of Franconia Notch, take the short yet steep jaunt up Artists Bluff. For centuries, tourists have climbed the well-worn trail to the open summit on Bald Mountain. It is a popular hike, so get there early, and you may want to bring a face mask just in case. For a more challenging hike, the 8.5-mile Franconia Ridge Trail Loop will take you over the peaks of Mount Lafayette, Mount Lincoln, and Little Haystack for panoramic views of the White Mountains. Be sure to pack all the essentials, including warm clothes and possibly microspikes and/or snowshoes, since it is not uncommon for it to snow early in the White Mountains at higher elevations.

Visit Area Attractions

For a quieter, more serene experience head West on Route 112 towards Vermont where you’ll see not only the beautiful foliage, but rugged cliffs and Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves where you can immerse yourself into the foliage.

For those seeking a bit more adventure, there are plenty of active ways to immerse yourself in the fall colors. Try paddling at Echo Lake at the base of Cannon Mountain to see the vibrant leaves reflected on the water and possibly catch a glimpse of a black bear on the ski slopes. Hit the downhill mountain biking trails at Loon Mountain Resort or enjoy the paved bike path through Franconia Notch for an exhilarating ride. You can also explore off-the-beaten-path areas with a guided ATV tour or soar through the treetops on a zipline at Alpine Adventures.

Scenic Rides

Trains were once a primary mode of transportation in the White Mountains, and you can still see the remnants of old railbeds and cars throughout the region. Whether you’re a train enthusiast or just someone who wants to enjoy a scenic ride through the mountains to see the fall foliage, you have several options to enjoy. The Granite State Railroad home of the Lincoln Rail Bikes, offers fall foliage rides along the Pemigewasset River region. Enjoy the beautiful pathways cutting throught the mountain valleys, as you ride the train, or pedal/ride a rail bike. The Mount Washington Cog Railway gives you some breathtaking views of the scenic mountains around you, painted in the beautiful foliage colors.

For a truly breathtaking experience, hop on a gondola at Loon Mountain Resort. Sadly, the scenic ride on Cannon Mountain’s 80 passenger aerial tram, will be closed this year due to construction.

Fall Events

Speaking of fun, you’ll want to check out some of the traditional fall events, like Oktoberfest at Loon Mountain Resort or start spooky season early with the Ghost Light Tour at North Country Center for the Arts at Jean’s Playhouse. You’ll definitely want to fuel up before your adventures or end the day at one of our family friendly restaurants where you’ll enjoy the flavors or fall through unique cocktails, autumn brews and tempting savory fall dishes. There’s a cuisine choice for every palate!

However you choose to experience it, fall in the Western White Mountains is a season you won’t want to miss.

Visit the Western White Mountains This Fall

Fall is a beautiful time to visit the Western White Mountains of New Hampshire. With the incredible changing colors and lots of crisp fresh air, it’s the perfect place to experience the fresh mountain air.