Western White Mountain Chamber

Basecamp of the White Mountains in New Hampshire

Dinner Train

5 Best Fall Activities in the Western White Mountains

Ready for another beautiful fall foliage season in the Western White Mountains?! Peak foliage is just around the corner, and you’ll want to start planning all your favorite fall activities. Hop in your car and head to the mountains for some fall fun with your family.

 

Fall Scenic Drives

The White Mountains are home to some of the best fall foliage scenic drives in the world. There is a reason thousands of people flock to the region every year to view the incredible kaleidoscope of colors. For the ultimate White Mountains road trip, fill up your tank, grab a sweater, and 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 Botch 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 Multi-Notch Mountain Ride can be broken into a weekend or done in a day. Don’t have a full day? You can just drive the Kancamagus Highway or Route 302 through Crawford Notch. Whatever route you take, it will be beautiful. Keep in mind that parking is limited in areas, and you should avoid parking on the highways or busy roads.

artist bluff

Fall Hikes

If you’re looking to get up close and personal with the changing leaves or views of the White Mountain National Forest from above, you’ll want to lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails. Hiking is a great socially-distance fall activity for the whole family. With hundreds of miles of hiking trails throughout the Western White Mountains, there is no shortage of trails with great fall foliage views. 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 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 crampons, since it is not uncommon for it to snow early in the White Mountains at higher elevations.

Wine and Beer Tasting

Over the recent years, tons of breweries and wineries have been popping up across the western White Mountains making it the best destination for craft beer and wine lovers. Start your day off by winetasting at Seven Birches Winery at the RiverWalk Resort. Choose from a variety of in-house made white, red, and everything in between wine. Just a short walk across the parking lot, you’ll find One Love Brewery with their tasty German-style beers and delicious menu of pub favorites.

Discover one of New Hampshire’s original craft breweries at the Woodstock Inn Brewery. With a 30-barrel production facility on-site, you can not only taste your favorite beers but see them made. With creative Western White Mountains names like Exit 32 and Pemi Pale Ale, you find something to like. Head up I-93 and find even more breweries to try. Remember to drink responsibly.

fall foliage

Scenic Train 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 Hobo Railroad in Lincoln offers fall foliage rides along the Pemigewasset River region. Due to the coronavirus, the train will be running on a limited schedule and capacity to ensure the safety of the public. The Mount Washington Cog Railway and the Conway Scenic Railroad are also open for fall foliage scenic train rides during the autumn months.

Mountain Biking

Hit the new mountain biking trails at Loon Mountain this fall. Last fall, Loon Mountain completed phase one of their new downhill mountain biking park. Designed and built in conjunction with Highland Trails, the downhill mountain park over two miles of trails with more to come in the following years. If you prefer flatter ground, Loon Mountain has six miles of cross-country biking trails as well. Once you’re done ripping it up at Loon, head over to the nearly 9 mile Franconia Notch Recreation Path.

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.

All Aboard the Dinner Train!

All Aboard the Dinner Train!

For a truly unique dining experience in the Western White Mountains, book your tickets on the Café Lafayette Dinner Train in North Woodstock, New Hampshire. For two hours, you’ll enjoy a delicious five-course gourmet meal cooked by an award-winning chef while taking in the majestic views of the White Mountains.

nh dinner train

The Café Lafayette Dinner Train is currently in its 31st season of serving guests a unique experience in the Western White Mountains. Start your journey at the Train Station in North Woodstock, where you’ll receive your boarding pass and seating assignment. The Dinner Train consists of three unique cars. The Indian Waters car is a 1924 Pullman car featuring ornate woodworking, stained glass, and brass. The iconic car is often used during the fall months. Granite Eagle is a 1952 Pullman dome car and is one of the last dome cars remaining in the United States. During your booking, you have the option to choose the dome seating, which offers incredible panoramic views of the White Mountains. Algonquin is a 1954 Canadian National coach that was previously part of the trans-Canadian railway. No matter what train car you are seated in, you’ll enjoy the unique atmosphere.

white mountain dinner train

Once everyone is boarded and seated for dinner, the Café Lafayette Dinner Train will embark from the Train Station and begin its two-hour journey along the Boston-Maine Line spur through the Pemi River Valley. You’ll travel south through the woods, over three trestle bridges, through the Jack O’Lantern Golf Course, and finally to the turnaround point at a Christmas Tree farm in Thornton. While you’ll want to take in the beautiful scenery around you, you don’t want to miss what is right in front of you on your plate!

fine dining lincoln nh

All dishes served on the Café Lafayette Dinner Train are homemade by Executive Chef Robin Campbell, an award-winning Paris-trained chef from England who has cooked in some of the best restaurants in Las Vegas. Many of the ingredients are sourced locally in the greater White Mountains region, coming from places like Blackriver Forest and Serendipity Farm. The gourmet meal changes seasonally, and you’ll always have your choice of appetizer and entrée. Once guests are seated, your server will review the menu with you.

dinner train fine dining

Your choice of entrée will always include a chicken, fish, red meat, and vegetarian option. The Café Lafayette Dinner Train can modify and accommodate a variety of dietary needs with advanced notice. Dinner starts with homemade freshly out-of-the-oven rolls followed by an appetizer of your choice, soup, salad, entrée of your choice, and dessert. Each train car has a full bar with an extensive wine, beer, and special cocktail list.

dinner train drinks

The Café Lafayette Dinner Train is owned and managed locally by a husband and wife team. Ali will answer all your calls and greet you when you board the train while Michael handles all the train maintenance and tends bar in the evenings! Their small staff of servers and chefs are there to tend to all your needs. The Dinner Train does have a business casual dress attire, and children under the age of six are discouraged as two hours in one place may be difficult for the energetic little ones.

nh dinner train

The Café Lafayette Dinner Train operates from May through October on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings. Advanced reservations are strongly encouraged, but last-minute bookings may be available but must be made by phone. The train runs rain or shine, and it’s always beautiful on the tracks! The Café Lafayette Dinner Train is handicap accessible, it’s best to contact them in advance for the best seating option for you. For full details, pricing and current menus click here.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two or a unique experience in the White Mountains, visit their website, NHDinnerTrain.com to reserve a table.  Between the gourmet menu and incredible views of the Pemi River Valley, you won’t be disappointed (or hungry afterward)!

Delicious & Unique Dining Options in the Western White Mountains

A trip to the western White Mountains is a culinary delight. While the area might not be a foodie destination like other cities in New England, we’re spoiled with many delicious and unique dining options. From organic, locally sourced farm fresh ingredients to a gourmet five-course dinner on the Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train, you certainly won’t go hungry in the western White Mountains.    

purple tomato farmers market and sandwhiches

 

Woodstock Inn

Voted favorite restaurant in the White Mountains for the past eight years, the Woodstock Inn is a local legend. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the Woodstock Inn menu is extensive as the dining room. You’ll find everything from nachos to pretzels to meatloaf and fish and chips. The Woodstock Inn burgers are the best in town. Made with locally raised New Hampshire and Vermont beef, each burger is flavorful and fresh. If you’re up for the challenge, try the Death by Burger, which is an 18 oz. cheeseburger on the bottom with a BLT and onions on top. Want to make it on the wall of fame? Try the Double the Death Burger! Thirty-six ounces of beef? No problem! 

gypsy cafe

Gypsy Cafe

For a taste around the world, head to the Gypsy Café for a fun and casual evening with an eccentric menu. With a unique art created by local artists on the wall, you’ll be inspired to choose something colorful from the menu. From Enchiladas Rojas to Thai Red Curry Duck to Malai Kofta, each dish is authentic and full of flavor and a little spice. If you’re a margarita fan, then you’ve come to the right place! The Gypsy Cafe’s margaritas are famous around these parts. Made with fresh homemade lemon and lime sour mix, you can’t go wrong with whatever one you choose.   

one love brewery

One Love Brewery

On a hot summer day, there is nothing better than a cold beer. Head over to One Love Brewery for some German-style beers on the dog-friendly patio. Their diverse menu is filled with delicious comfort food-style pub favorites, like soft pretzels, nachos, and poutine! Many of the many dishes are cooked using their locally brewed beer and many locally sourced ingredients. Visit Tuesday for Trivia Night or Friday and Saturday nights for live music.  

mountain club on loon

Mountain Club on Loon

The Mountain Club on Loon offers two dining options – Black Diamond Pub and Seasons Restaurant. Both restaurants source their ingredients locally from farmers, producers, bakers and brewers, and distillers. The restaurants serve up traditional New England pub fare with a local twist for both kids and adults. Each dining option is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. 

 

cafe lafayette dinner train

Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train

For a truly unique experience, book a ticket aboard the Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train. For two hours, you’ll ride along the Pemigewasset River through the beautiful western White Mountains while eating a gourmet five-course dinner. Each 1950’s vintage train car has been restored to its former glory making the whole dinner train a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The menu changes regularly and features delicious seasonal dishes made with local flavors. A trip on the Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train is a perfect idea for a special occasion like an anniversary or engagement.

Choo, Choo, All Aboard the White Mountain Train Express

For a smaller region in northern New Hampshire, the western White Mountains has four vintage passenger trains open to the public. Whether you’re a four-year-old Thomas the Train super fan or a 64-year-old retired train conductor, you’ll love all the trains we have in town. Hop on board the Café Lafayette Dinner Train for an exceptional five-course dinner or search for the elusive Wolfman on the train at Clark’s Trading Post. Whatever your choice, it’s time to hop on board and enjoy the ride!

Hobo Railroad – A White Mountains Family Train

hobo railroad - white mountains train

Voted the “Best Ride for Kids” by New Hampshire Magazine, the Hobo Railroad travels 14 miles along the picturesque Pemigewasset River. The 80-minute ride starts at Hobo Junction Train Station on Route 112 passes over Main Street and soon after a two-span bridge over the East Branch of the Pemigewasset River. You’ll cross over the river again before coming back to the station.

Throughout the year, the Hobo Railroad offers special train rides. Every Saturday during the summer months, naturalists from the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center provide educational commentary during the excursions. On Sundays, storybook characters join the trains for special storybook readings for young kids. During the fall months, ride the Hobo Harvest Time Express and catch the trees bursting with color. You’ll also have the chance to sample seasonal items and specialty products from New England. Of course, you can’t miss Santa in late November and early December!

Clark’s Trading Post – A White Mountains Fun Train

Clarks Trading Post Train

Celebrating its 90th year this summer, Clark’s Trading Post is a long-time favorite in the western White Mountains. Home to the famous Bear Show and many attractions and museums, Clark’s is also home to an antique steam-powered train. The White Mountain Central Railroad is 2.5-mile, 25-minute train ride through Wolfman’s territory. During the Fall foliage months, Clark’s also runs its 1943 GE diesel locomotive. Keep an eye out for the infamous Wolfman once you pass through the 1904 covered bridge. He is always up to something with his crazy antics!

Café Lafayette Dinner Train – A White Mountains Dinner Train

white mountains dinner train

For a unique experience, book reservations on the Café Lafayette Dinner Train in North Woodstock. Operating from late May through October, dine on incredible seasonally selected appetizers and entrees in a five-course meal while watching the scenery change as you travel through the Pemigewasset River valley on its 20-mile journey.

Each car is of a different time period, including a 1952 dome car. The car offers two-levels of dining and is one of the last dome cars still functioning on the rails today. You’ll find as many rail enthusiasts as you find foodies on this unique dining experience in the western White Mountains.

 

J.E. Henry Railroad at Loon Mountain – A White Mountains Winter Train

Loon Mountain Train

During the winter months, Loon Mountain runs its Lilliputian-sized steam engine 600 feet from the gondola building to the Governor’s Lodge. The 1934 German locomotive is named after J.E Henry, a 19th-century timber baron who owned the local East Branch Railroad. Every winter, the wood-fired, steam-powered engine burns through approximately 60 cords of wood! If you’re 18 years and older, you have the opportunity to be a Guest Train Engineer for the day if you take the Guest Train Engineer Program course during the summer or fall months.

If you want to keep riding that train, Lincoln-Woodstock is just a short drive from the Conway Scenic Railroad, offering two different historic trains and three route options, and from the Mount Washington Cog Railway, the world’s first mountain climbing cog railway train. Whether you’re searching for fun, history, mountains or food by train, you’ll find it in Lincoln-Woodstock. Grab the kids, grab the grandparents and plan your next family getaway for the train lovers in your life!

lodging in lincoln nh

The Lil’ Red Caboose – Unique Lodging in the White Mountains

We even have trains for lodging in the White Mountains! Use Air BnB and stay at the famous Lil’ Red Caboose. Randy is the owner of the Lil’ Red Caboose and a Superhost through Air BnB, which means he has high ratings from his guests. As a matter of fact, 95% of the people who leave Randy reviews give him 5 stars for the unique lodging, a great check-in experience, and outstanding location. The caboose has three beds and one bath, and can fit 4 guests. There is a kitchen, bathroom, indoor fireplace, two flat screen TV’s, central air, and WiFi all packed into this cozy lil’ caboose.

All aboard! Come discover the beauty and fun of the western White Mountains trains this year!