new hampshire driving tour

6 Travel-Worthy Scenic Drives in New Hampshire

What if we told you that you could experience the most beautiful places in New Hampshire in a day or less? It’s true, and there is so much this tiny New England state has to offer!

Scenic drives in New Hampshire can take you past snow-capped mountains, along the Atlantic coast, and everywhere in between. This state’s rich history is evident everywhere you go, and you’re always in for a unique experience.

Here are several of our favorite routes to add to your New Hampshire road trip list. Just don’t forget your camera!

Scenic Drives in New Hampshire

New Hampshire Scenic Drives: Lakes Region Tour (NH 11, Route 25)

• Distance: 97 miles
• Time needed:  Approximately 2 hours direct or 1 day

Discover the beauty of Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire’s largest and most scenic lake, when you embark on the Lakes Region Tour. Spend a few hours or take the whole day to experience breathtaking views, hike the trails, and even amusement parks. The Lakes Region Tour offers some of the best photo opportunities in New Hampshire.

Your drive begins in Alton, also known as the southern gateway to the Lakes region. Recreational activities abound along NH 11, and there are many places to pause so you can take in views of the Ossipee Mountain Range and Lake Winnipesaukee itself. Ellacoya State Park is the perfect place for a picnic lunch, hiking, or a cool swim in the summer months.

As you continue to Meredith, you’ll encounter amusement parks and shopping at Weirs Beach , a popular tourist destination first colonized in the 1600s. When you reach Meredith, don’t forget to take advantage of the many photo opportunities of the White Mountains and Lake Winnipesaukee.

From Meredith, you can either take Route 25 towards Moultonborough or NH 25B to Center Harbor. The latter is a more scenic route, taking you through rolling hills to the town of Center Harbor. As you continue to Tuftonboro and back towards Alton, stop at the Wentworth Estate and Libby Museum, the oldest natural history museum in New Hampshire!

When to Go : Although you can travel this route in all seasons, we recommend adding this New Hampshire road trip to your summer bucket list. Unfortunately, many attractions are only open seasonally.  

New Hampshire Scenic Drives: New Hampshire Coastal Byway (NH Routes 1A & 1B)

• Distance: 18.5 miles
• Time needed: 20 minutes direct to 1 day

Don’t forget to bring your sunhat for this breezy drive along the New Hampshire Coastal Byway. You’ll see some of the most beautiful places in New Hampshire, from gorgeous ocean views to historic mansions and everything in between. Although you can get from Portsmouth to Seabrook in about an hour, we invite you to take your time and enjoy the salty sea air.

You’ll begin your drive by taking Route 1A in historic Portsmouth, where you can visit the Strawbery Banke Museum and Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion.

From there, you’ll travel along to New Castle and Rye. Finally, you can extend your drive by taking Route 1B from Portsmouth’s historic district to an area called the Great Island Common, a route filled with charming homes and the famous Wentworth-By-the-Sea Hotel .

Nature enthusiasts will love exploring tidepools and forts at Odiorne State Park , and there are also many state and local beaches to visit along the way. If fishing is more to your liking, try your hand at a deep-sea fishing excursion from Rye Harbor. Lastly, take a walk along Hampton Beach and enjoy the many fine dining options in the area.

Pro Tip : There will be parking fees at state beaches, so make sure to have cash on hand.

When to Go: In order to take advantage of everything the New Hampshire Coastal Byway has to offer, make this drive between late spring and early fall to avoid seasonal closures. 

New Hampshire Scenic Drives: Kancamagus Highway (Route 112)

• Distance: 26.5 miles
• Time needed: 1 hour direct or 2-3 hours

The Kancamagus Highway is one of the best fall foliage scenic drives that New Hampshire has to offer, but there are many beautiful sights and activities to experience year-round. Lovingly referred to as “The Kanc,” this eastern stretch of Route 112 will be a drive to remember.

The Kancamagus Scenic Byway stretches from Lincoln to Conway. The route skirts the side of Mount Kancamagus, which is a sight to behold in and of itself. Stop to experience Sabbaday Falls before heading on to Rocky Gorge Scenic Area for photos. Don’t forget to walk across the Albany Covered Bridge, which was first built in 1858.

Pro Tip : The bridge is closed to cars during the winter, but you can walk across on foot.

Along this route, you’ll also see some of the best views in New Hampshire, as “The Kank” takes you through the heart of White Mountain National Forest . You can also hike a portion of the Appalachian Trail as well as many others, and there are countless breathtaking views along the way.

When to Go : You can travel the Kancamagus Scenic Byway year-round, although some routes may be closed during winter. Autumn is an excellent time to view the fall foliage.

Top 10 Things To Do In Moab With Kids

Southern California vs Northern California: Which Is Better…

15 Fun Things To Do With Kids On A Sydney Family Holiday

New Hampshire Scenic Drives: Canterbury Shaker Village Scenic Byway (NH 132)

• Distance: 12 miles
• Time needed: 20 minutes direct or 1 day

A drive along the Canterbury Shaker Village Scenic Byway is like traveling back in time to a bygone era. Your route takes you through lush forests, open marshes, and pre-revolutionary architecture and ends at the historic Canterbury Shaker Village.

Visiting the 694-acre Canterbury Shaker Village is like taking a step back into the 1800s. You can take a 75-minute tour to learn the history of Shaker society, visit 29 original buildings, and find a souvenir or two at the museum shop on the grounds. Bring your walking shoes to enjoy the many nature paths on the property, including the Physician’s Botanical Garden.

The Shaker Village might be the main attraction of this scenic byway, but there are still other fascinating sites to see along your drive. You also have access to Hutchins Forest along the route, and the village of Canterbury itself has plenty to offer.

When to Go : Although you can make this drive any time of year, the Canterbury Shaker Village is only open seasonally from May to October (10-5 daily) and April, November, and December (10-5 weekends).

New Hampshire Scenic Drives: Currier & Ives Scenic Byway (Routes 202, 103, and 127)

• Distance: 40 miles
• Time needed: 1 hour direct or 1 day

Experience the tranquil New Hampshire scenery that inspired artists Nathaniel Currier and James Merritt Ives with the Currier & Ives Scenic Byway. This drive is filled with natural beauty, historic landmarks, shopping, and more, so feel free to take your time and enjoy the ride.

Begin your drive at Daniel Webster’s birthplace before continuing on Route 127 through Salisbury and on to Webster. You’ll see many historic churches and colonial architecture along the route, pastoral farmland, and rolling hills. Stop to kayak on Blackwater River before visiting the quaint New England villages like Contoocook and Hopkinton.

Hike the trails in Elm Brook State Park , or you can ski at Pat’s Peak during the winter. Then, shop in Downtown Henniker and enjoy the many fairs, festivals, concerts, and museums along the drive.

This scenic New Hampshire drive ends at the Franklin Pierce Homestead in Hillsborough. Take a tour of this historic building and learn more about how the 14th president of the United States shaped our country during some of the most trying periods in America’s history.

When to Go: The Currier & Ives Scenic Byway has something to offer year-round, whether you’re skiing in the winter, leaf-peeping in the fall, or anything in between.

New Hampshire Scenic Drives: The American Independence Byway (Routes 150, 84, 1, and 27)

• Distance: 21 miles
• Time needed: 41 minutes direct or 1 day 

Last but not least is the American Independence Byway , a 21-mile State Scenic and Culture Byway that winds through several of New Hampshire’s original towns – Exeter, Hampton, Hampton Falls, and Kensington. Historians and nature enthusiasts alike will find something to love along this historic stretch of road.

If you want the full historical effect, start your drive at the bandstand in Exeter’s center. Don’t forget to visit the American Independence Museum and Gilman Garrison, the town’s oldest building.

( Pro Tip : Gilman Garrison is closed during the winter, so make sure to visit during the summer!)

Then, take Route 150 to Kensington, surrounded by Georgian and early Federal farmsteads.

As you travel from Kensington to Hampton, look for apple orchards, farmers’ markets, and colonial architecture. You also get a breathtaking view of the Atlantic Ocean in Hampton, where you can stroll along Hampton Beach before catching a bite to eat at one of the many fine-dining options the town offers.

When to Go : Drive the American Independence Byway year-round, and always check for festivals and performances that are open seasonally.

Where To Next? More Family Road Trips In New England

If you can’t get enough of the scenic beauty of New England, here are more day trips and itineraries to consider in the northeast.

• Fabulous 5-day Autumn Itinerary Through New England
• 5 Unforgettable Connecticut Scenic Drives
• 7 Incredible Maine Scenic Drives
• 8 Amazing Day Trips From Boston
• Boston to Bar Harbor; Explore the Beauty of the Maine Coast
• Ultimate New York to Maine Road Trip Itinerary

© Family Road Trip

Southern California vs Northern California: Which Is Better For A Family Vacation?

25+ Fabulous Family Attractions in San Diego & Southern California

15 Perfect Things To Do With Kids On A Perth Family Holiday

25+ Fabulous Family Attractions in San Diego & Southern…

Drive yourself partial opening  (to 4,200′ elevation, weather permitting), weekends starting April 27th, 2024.

Want to go higher book a seat on our weekend spring adventure tour.

• Limited Time Only!

SPRING ADVENTURE TOUR

An exclusive opportunity to see the Mt. Washington Auto Road in spring during our road clearing process.

• User All Ages
• Hour Glass 1.5 hours

YOUR DESTINATION FOR ADVENTURE

Drive yourself.

No reservations necessary

GUIDED TOURS

Book a reservation

ATVs On The Auto Road

Sunset drives & guided tours, renowned events, bicknell's thrush tours, red barn museum, plan your vacation today.

• Featured Activity
• Hour Glass 2 hours

2-Hour Guided Tour

2-Hour Guided Tours offer a unique opportunity to learn the true nature and history of Mount Washington.

Drive Yourself

Driving the Auto Road is about a new experience at every turn, even if you’ve already driven it several times. Weather, foliage, views … they’re always changing and keep the trip exciting. Drive yourself and earn the famous “This Car Climbed Mount Washington” bumper sticker!

Sunset Guided Tour

A guided tour for sunset atop the highest peak in the northeast.

ATVs & UTVs

Experience the beauty of the White Mountains and world-famous weather on Mt. Washington from the open-air seat of your ATV / UTV!

Bicknell’s Thrush Tours

Join us for a Guided Tour to try and see this rarest and most secretive of the breeding thrushes in North America.

• All-Access Pass

Auto Road Summer Season Pass

Whether you’re a hiker, photographer, birder—or just love having access to the tallest peak in the northeast—a season pass pays for itself in just a few drives!

• Hour Glass 8 hours

– Wildlife Kayaking

Great glen trails outdoor center.

Our trip is your gateway to river exploration in which we’ll show you a beautiful, quiet section of the Androscoggin River.

Sunset Drives

Drive yourself to watch the sunset from the highest peak in the northeast!

TAKE IN THE BREATHTAKING VIEWS OF MT. WASHINGTON

We took the Auto Tour (a large van) & were so glad we did....lane widths are just adequate, and there are no guardrails. Smelled a lot of hot brakes! But oh my! What phenomenal views! The maples were aflame with color! And Mt Washington is way above the surrounding mountains, so you see peak after peak below you, as you look to the horizon, plus a few lakes. Just beautiful. Is we're ever here again, we may take the courage train up.

Mt. Washington is a long time favorite of ours. We enjoy going up, not matter how the method. This time we took the coach. Kevin was a great tour guide!! He was funny, polite and great to listen to. The clouds and fall colors were wonderful. Way to many people, but have to share right. We can't wait to go again

Had a truly awesome ride up the mountain yesterday in a 61-year old Morgan. The road is steep, bendy, and narrow but stay calm and in low gear and you'll do just fine. The weather yesterday was perfect and visibility fantastic in all directions. Because of that the road was busy and my biggest problem was big SUVs and trucks slowing down as I was going up to squeeze past each other. It is a narrow road but the views are incredible. Highly recommended--but do check the weather at the summit first.

Definitely the way to go, don’t drive yourself, this is much more relaxing and you can see the scenery. Just the right amount of time. You also will get more from the informative guides also. It was overcast and foggy when we started but we went through the clouds and it was mostly sunny and actually warmer with no wind at the top, not what we were expecting. Unusual as our guide said. Definitely recommend.

Going to the top of Mount Washington was the highlight of our trip. It’s amazing to see the forest change as you gain elevation and it’s truly like another world at the top. We debated driving versus the guided tour. I’m very thankful we did this. The price is reasonable and the guide was great. More importantly it made me thankful I did not attempt to drive it myself. You will learn a lot from others mistakes and save your brakes.

This was an amazing experience that I had to live. The views are espectacular. I’m not going to lie, going up there was a rush of adrenaline. I was scared but excited too. Kevin was our tour guide and he was so wonderful. Very kind, he was telling us all about the Mountains, trail tracks and everything. Loved this!

New Hampshire Fall Foliage Driving Tours

In the fall, color-changing leaves transform New Hampshire into a vibrant wonderland and a dream destination for a road trip. Many scenic roads throughout the state are beautiful at any time of year, but in the fall, they shine as green hues shift to bright red and orange ones. There are many routes to take in the state where you can enjoy the fall season at its best while driving under New Hampshire's charming covered bridges and keeping your eyes peeled for moose.

Kancamagus Highway

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

If you plan only one fall driving tour, make it New Hampshire's National Scenic Byway with the tongue-twister name: the Kancamagus Highway. This exhilarating road through the White Mountain National Forest is the most superb scenic drive in all of New England and a beloved fall foliage route. The Kanc, as the locals call it, connects the towns of Conway and Lincoln and while you can expect bumper-to-bumper traffic on peak travel days, you can make the most of it by taking this drive slowly and pulling over often to appreciate the scenery.

Moose Alley

bilbowden / Getty Images

Moose Alley, the nickname for the stretch of Route 3 that runs from Pittsburg, New Hampshire, to the Canadian border, is one of the best places to see moose in New England. The road takes you through the wild and pristine Great North Woods, which is worth seeing whether you spot a moose or not, especially when the colors start to shift for the fall. When moose-spotting remember to drive very slowly and if you do see one, pull over to the side of the road and do not approach it.

Mt. Washington Valley Waterfalls

Danita Delimont / Getty Images 

Although waterfalls are reliably at their most dramatic in the spring when the snow begins to melt, fall can be a wonderful time to visit and photograph these shimmering cascades framed by the rich reds and golds of autumn leaves. With more than a dozen accessible waterfalls, New Hampshire's Mt. Washington Valley is the perfect destination for a fall waterfall tour. If you're driving along the Kancamagus Highway, you could even stop for a short hike to Sabbaday Falls. Other beautiful New Hampshire waterfalls to mark on your map include Glen Ellis Falls, Crystal Cascade, Thompson Falls, Arethusa Falls, Flume Cascade, Silver Cascade, Ripley Falls, Jackson Falls, and Diana's Bath.

Connecticut River Byway

Thomas Roche / Getty Images 

Trace the path of the Connecticut River, which forms the boundary between New Hampshire and Vermont, and enjoy changing colors as you visit small New Hampshire towns on this scenic drive. Choose a town like Walpole, Charleston, or Claremont to stop for lunch, and be sure to also stop for a visit  Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park , which is just past the extra-long Cornish-Windsor Bridge. If you want to, you can keep going along the Great North Woods Ride after you pass Groveton, another 120 miles through the Mahoosuc region.

The Lakes Loop

Denis Tangney Jr. / Getty Images

For 134 miles of breathtaking water and foliage views, you can start this route in Meredith and follow the shoreline of Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire's largest lake. Then follow the route to Wolfeboro and continue north through the picturesque small towns like Conway, Union, Farmington, and Rochester. Be sure to visit Castle in the Clouds , a mansion in Moultonborough open four tours, for aerial views of Lake Winnipesaukee and leaves.

The Sunapee Loop

The Sunapee Loop in southwestern New Hampshire takes you around sparkling Lake Sunapee and to a picture-perfect town worth visiting in the fall. The petite village of Washington, New Hampshire, is one of the prettiest you'll find in all of New England and it is also the first town in America to name itself after George Washington. The three classic white buildings on Washington Common continue to serve vital community functions, including one of New England's oldest town halls still in use.

The 10 Best Places to See Fall Foliage in New Hampshire

White Mountain National Forest: The Complete Guide

Best Fall Foliage Drives in the New England States

The Best Things to Do in New England

Best Places to Stay in New Hampshire for Fall Foliage

15 Epic Fall Foliage Drives With Kids

20 Top Things to Do in New Hampshire

Maine Fall Foliage Driving Tours

7 Beautiful New England Fall Foliage Train Tours

The Top 12 Hikes in New Hampshire

New England Fall Foliage Cruises and Boat Tours

A Tour of New Hampshire Waterfalls

The Best Places to See Fall Colors in the USA

12 Best Things to Do in New England in the Winter

New Hampshire's Kancamagus Highway: The Complete Guide

The Best Places to See Fall Colors Near Boston

Supercar Tour Kancamagus / White Mountain NEW HAMPSHIRE

• July 11 - 21, 2024 Book Now
• Not Sure? Buy a Gift Card

ENJOY A SUPERCAR TOUR THROUGH THE BEST ROADS OF NEW HAMPSHIRE

The Kancamagus Scenic Byway takes you through a path cut through the White Mountain National Forest with breathtaking views of the White Mountains, the Swift River, Sabbaday Falls, Lower Falls and Rocky Gorge. The Kanc takes you to an elevation of just under 3,000 feet at its highest point at Kancamagus Pass on the flank of Mt. Kancamagus near Lincoln, NH.

The Supercar Fleet

Enjoy these amazing supercars on the open road, supercar driving tours.

Spend a day testing out the performance of iconic supercars against the picturesque backdrop of White Mountain National Forest. This supercar playground sets the tone for the ultimate driving experience away from the busyness of the city. Rivers, lakes, and breathtaking vistas surround you as you snake through the long winding roads of The Kancamagus. 

Drive  THREE of the world’s best cars including the Ferrari 488 Spyder, Lamborghini Huracan Spyder and Porsche 911/992 GT3 for a full day on the Open Road.

Step away from the hustle and bustle of city life and explore The Kancamagus in the driver’s seat of world-class supercars. You will discover hidden rivers and lakes as you navigate long stretches of dense forestry and marvelous hillsides. This scenic byway is the ultimate getaway for aerial views that will simply take your breath away.

Drive  THREE of the world’s best cars including the Ferrari 488 Spyder, Lamborghini Huracan Spyder and Porsche 911/992 GT3 for a half day on the Open Road.

Discover the beauty of The Kancamagus with miles of road through rolling mountains – the epitome of idyllic driving. Tight corners, elevation changes, and straights of tree-lined roads make this tour a driving bliss for car enthusiasts of any kind. 

Drive a Ferrari 488 Spyder, Lamborghini Huracan Spyder or Porsche 911/992 GT3 for 2.5 hours on the Open Road.

Meet us in the White Mountains, where luxury and performance meet an endless array of dense greenery. Snake the scenic byways of dense forests as you take in unrivaled views of passing mountaintops and valleys.  

Drive a Ferrari 488 Spyder, Lamborghini Huracan Spyder or Porsche 911/992 GT3 for an hour on the Open Road.

Starting Point:

White Mountain / Kancamagus

Mountain Club on Loon 90 Loon Mountain Road • Lincoln, NH 03251

Travel Times:

Concord: 1 hr

Manchester: 1 hr 30 min

Portland: 2 hrs

Boston: 2 hrs

All Supercar Tours will take place in the famous White Mountains on expertly curated back roads.

BEST DRIVER’S CARS

Experience a handpicked selection of the world’s best supercars including the most desirable offerings from Ferrari, Lamborghini, Mercedes and Porsche.

BEST DRIVING ROADS

All roads are not created equal which is why we found the best roads in America for you to enjoy. From switchbacks to sweepers and open straights to stunning vistas, your senses will be fully engaged.

SHARE THE JOURNEY

Bring a loved one, friend, or colleague on an adventure of a lifetime. Passenger and co-driver options available.

CORPORATE EVENTS

A highly engaging turnkey event to entertain or reward groups of 4-24. Strengthen relationships during 1-on-1 time in cars. Catering and meeting space available.

PRE-PLANNED ROUTES

Routes have been scouted for the best driving dynamics, spectacular views and minimal traffic.

PROFESSIONAL GUIDANCE

Our guides leverage extensive backgrounds in motorsports, racing and driving instruction to help you get the most out of your drive on the open road.

**Affirm Financing: Your rate will be 10-36% based on credit, and is subject to an eligibility check. Payment options through Affirm  are provided by these lending partners:  affirm .com/lenders . Options depend on your purchase amount, and a down payment may be required. Example: A $500 purchase might cost $42.40/month over 12 months at 15% APR.

Sign Up and Save Today!

New England Wanderlust

New Hampshire  ·  March 24, 2023

21 Gorgeous New Hampshire Covered Bridges To Visit (+ Tour Itinerary!) 2024

If it’s beautiful covered bridges you’re after during your next trip to New England, you’ve come to the right place. I’m equally as fascinated by them as I am lighthouses, so whenever I’m able to stop and visit one during my travels, I do it. So, welcome to my guide on the best New Hampshire covered bridges!

While Vermont wins for the most covered bridges in New England, New Hampshire also has quite a few, and many of them can be found in popular tourist areas, too. If you’re looking to check out the best ones to see on your road trip, you’ll definitely want to keep reading. And stay tuned until the end for a helpful guide on a covered bridges road trip through the state.

New England Wanderlust contains affiliate links, and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We may earn a commission from any purchases you choose to make from our links, at no additional cost to you. For more information, please refer to our  Privacy Policy .

How Many Covered Bridges Are In New Hampshire?

New Hampshire is home to the second largest number of covered bridges in New England at around 60 as of 2023. That’s a lot of opportunity to see them on your trip! And since they’re scattered all over the state, it’s pretty easy to find one regardless of where you’re heading.

Best Covered Bridges In The White Mountains To Visit

Since many people head straight to the White Mountains when visiting New Hampshire, I’ve created this section on the best covered bridges in this region to help you plan. And great news, some of the best in the state are here, meaning you can also enjoy everything the White Mountains have to offer while looking for the bridges, too 🙂

1. Swift River Covered Bridge

Location: North Conway

Swift River is such a cool covered bridge in New Hampshire to visit because it’s closed off to street traffic, and has picnic tables inside that welcome you to sit and stay a while.

This bridge was originally built in 1850, but it was destroyed in 1869. Heavy rainfalls flooded the river, and quite literally lifted the bridge, and sent it floating down the river, where it crashed into Saco River Covered Bridge. Pieces of the bridge were recovered and some of them were used to reconstruct the bridge in 1890.

Pro Tip: The Saco River Covered Bridge is just a few minutes away. In fact, you may drive across it on your way to Swift River!

2. Flume Covered Bridge

Location: Inside Flume Gorge (entrance fee required) in Franconia Notch State Park

Flume Covered Bridge might be one of the most iconic covered bridges in the state. Its bright red color and picturesque location in the woods just make it so idyllic, and it’s so worth seeing in person.

Built in 1871, this bridge is at the beginning of the Flume Gorge Trail, which is most definitely one of the best things to do in the White Mountains region (so it’s a win-win for sure!). You’ll need to pay an entrance fee to walk the Flume Gorge trail, but no need to pay more than that to enter the park.

To get to the bridge, you’ll walk down a steep switch-back, so good shoes are definitely recommended.

Pro Tip : Take in the views of the bridge from high up before you walk down the switch-back!

3. Sentinel Pine Covered Bridge

Also inside the Flume Gorge area is Sentinel Pine Covered Bridge, so your entrance fee gets you two covered bridges for the price of one (plus, walking through Flume Gorge, which is super fun).

I honestly think Sentinel Bridge is just as beautiful as Flume Covered Bridge, and this one can be found toward the end of the trail. There are a lot of great overlooks near the bridge, too, so be sure to wander a bit to find the best views of the bridge both close-up, and from a distance.

4. Allen Hollis Covered Bridge

Location: Inside Lost River Gorge (entrance fee required), in Lincoln

Inside the very fun Lost River Gorge, you’ll be rewarded with Allen Hollis Covered Bridge toward the end of the walk through the gorge. Even though this one also requires an entrance fee to the gorge, it’s well worth it to discover amazing boulder caves along the way.

While this bridge was built in 1981 and is relatively new compared to the historic covered bridges around the rest of New England, it still feels charming and special to see in person.

5. Albany Covered Bridge

Location: Albany, along The Kancamagus Highway (Route 112)

Along one of the most scenic routes for fall foliage and mountain views in the region, Albany Covered Bridge is one of the best stops you can make on the Kancamagus Highway. It’s also a short walk from the parking area, making it easy to see.

Originally built in 1857, the bridge was damaged a year later in 1858, and rebuilt shortly after. It went through a few structural upgrades in the early 1980s, but overall, still maintains the original look from its rebuild in 1858.

Pro Tip: Even if you park just to see the bridge for a few minutes, you have to have a day-use pass to the White Mountains National Forest displayed on your windshield. If you didn’t get a pass before visiting the bridge, there is an easy-to-use kiosk at the parking lot to quickly pay. There’s also a restroom here.

6. Honeymoon Covered Bridge

Location: Jackson

Another iconic covered bridge in the White Mountains region is Honeymoon Covered Bridge. This bright red bridge allows vehicle traffic to cross Ellis River to get to Jackson Village, where many of the shops and hotels in Jackson are found.

Built in 1876, the bridge was named Honeymoon Bridge (and is sometimes referred to as Kissing Bridge) because people would smooch under it for good luck. I mean, it’s worth a shot, right? 😉 There’s also a pedestrian sidewalk for people to easily cross the bridge, which was added in 1930.

Pro Tip : This bridge actually gets quite a bit of vehicle traffic, but is still easy to visit. Once you cross the bridge from Route 16, you’ll see parking on your left, near Flossie’s General Store.

7. Ellis River Covered Bridge

Location: Jackson, on the Wentworth Golf Course

Ellis River is such a cute little covered bridge to visit in the area, but because of its location on the golf course, it may require a bit more planning to walk across it than just swinging by. But, if you’re able to visit, it’s a great one to add to your list.

During golf season, the best way to see it is to play a round of golf. If golf isn’t your thing, you can actually park close to Honeymoon Covered Bridge, and walk about 5-10 minutes (depending on your pace) to the bridge, which you can see from the road. Lastly in the winter, you can get a cross-country ski or snowshoe pass and cross the bridge that way (which is what I did).

8. Riverwalk Covered Bridge

Location: Littleton

In my personal favorite town in the White Mountains region, you’ll find the Riverwalk Covered Bridge, which has allowed pedestrians to cross the Ammonoosuc River. It’s also right off Main Street in Littleton, making it very easy to visit.

Built in 2004, the bridge is another newer addition to New Hampshire’s covered bridges, but at over 300 feet long, it’s one of the longest! It also offers wonderful views of the river and the old grist mill, which is now Schilling Beer Co.

9. Blair Covered Bridge

Location: Campton

In the southern foothills of the White Mountains, you’ll find the cute little Blair Covered Bridge. And the reason this one is especially worth seeking out is because the Covered Bridge Farm Table restaurant is right there, which is an awesome place to eat in the area!

This bridge also has an interesting backstory. It was originally built in 1829, and was burned down in 1868 by a man who claimed God told him to do it. He was later found innocent of the charges, even after confessing to the crime, because there were no witnesses. The bridge wasn’t rebuilt until 1977.

At 292 feet long, this bridge is also one of the longest in the state.

10. Bartlett Covered Bridge & Gift Shop

Location: Bartlett

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jason (@cja6900)

For a very unqiue covered bridge experience, you’ll want to be sure to have Bartlett Covered Bridge on your itinerary. Why? Well, because it’s also a gift shop. Yep, the gift shop is on the covered bridge!

I actually stumbled upon this little gem when I was driving from Jackson back to Littleton via Crawford Notch State Park, and pulled over immediately to check it out because it was almost too cool to even believe.

Originally built in 1851, the bridge became independently owned in 1966, and that’s when it became a store. In 1990, it underwent some renovations to upgrade the arches, as well as lighten the overall weight of the bridge to further accommodate the foot traffic and merchandise.

11. Bath-Haverhill Covered Bridge

Location: Bath/Woodsville Village

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lynda C (@lyndconn)

Only about 30 minutes from Franconia is the beautiful Bath-Haverhill Covered Bridge. Built in 1829, it’s also the oldest covered bridge in New Hampshire that’s still in use. And while it’s undergone some repairs over the years, including in 1980 when it underwent some ice damage, most of the structure remains from the original build.

Pro Tip: Also in Bath, you can visit the Swiftwater Covered Bridge, and Bath Covered Bridge!

12. Groveton Covered Bridge

Location: Groveton

About 40 minutes northeast of Littleton, you’ll find the Groveton Covered Bridge. And even though it’s a bit more secluded than the other bridges on this list, I think it’s well worth a visit. For me, there’s just something really special and beautiful about white covered bridges, especially in New Hampshire when most of them are natural wood or red.

Crossing the Upper Ammonoosuc river, this bridge was built in 1852 and offers really beautiful views of the river, with the mountains in the background.

Pro Tip: This bridge is also only about 10 minutes from Stark Covered Bridge, which is especially magical around Christmas when they hang lights on the bridge, and throughout town.

Here are some posts on the White Mountains that you may find helpful:

• Fun Things To Do In Littleton, NH
• Best Things To Do In Franconia, NH
• Best Things To Do In Lincoln, NH

More Covered Bridges In New Hampshire To See

Alright, now that you know all about the best covered bridges in the White Mountains region, let’s jump over to the rest of the state. Here are all my favorite New Hampshire covered bridges to visit outside of the White Mountains.

13. Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge

Location: Cornish

The longest covered bridge in New Hampshire, and also all of New England, is the Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge. This bridge connects New Hampshire to Windsor, VT (hence, the name 🙂), and is one of the most impressive bridges to see because it’s over 440 feet long.

Prior to the bridge that we have now, there were actually 3 other bridges built in the same place that were all destroyed by flooding. Thankfully, this one remained in tact after it was built in 1866, but it has undergone some repairs for ice and flood damage over the years.

Because of its historical significance, it’s also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

14. Prentiss Covered Bridge

Location: Langdon

At only 26 feet long, the adorable Prentiss Covered Bridge is the shortest in New Hampshire, and likely the shortest in all of New England. For that reason, there’s something really fun and special about seeing this little guy in person.

I haven’t been able to find confirmed dates when Prentiss Covered Bridge was first built – some historians claim it dates as far as back as the 1790s, which would technically make it older than the Bath-Haverhill Covered Bridge. But I’ve also found that many people agree it only dates back as far as the 1870s.

But regardless, the unique size makes it one that should be on your list!

15. Henniker Covered Bridge

Location: Henniker

This bridge looks like it dates back to the early 1800s, but in fact, it was only built in 1972. Pretty cool, right? The lattice design makes this one especially beautiful to photograph.

Located very close to the New England College campus, its main purpose today is to allow students to cross the Contoocook River to access the town and rest of the campus.

Currently, the bridge is closed to vehicle traffic, and is only open to pedestrians.

16. Corbin Covered Bridge

Location: Newport

Crossing Sugar River, the Corbin Covered Bridge is another scenic one to check out during your trip. Originally built in the 1840s, it was sadly destroyed in a fire in the 1990s (especially sad news as it lasted for so long up until that point). It was then rebuilt a few years later, and that’s the structure you’ll see when you visit.

And what I personally like about this covered bridge is that it’s surrounded by beautiful scenery. There’s a park right at the bridge with picnic tables, so it’s a great place to just sit and relax for a few hours. It’s lovely year-round, but fall is especially pretty here!

17. Denman Thompson Covered Bridge

Location: Swanzey

Also known as the West Swanzey Covered Bridge, the Denman Thompson is a beautiful red, lattice-style covered bridge that makes for great photos. It also has a nice little park with benches where you can sit and admire the views, and listen to the sounds of the flowing river.

Fun fact about this bridge: In the early 1970s, only empty school buses were able to cross the bridge due to weight limitations. Before the bus crossed the bridge, students would have to get off the bus, cross the bridge separately, and then re-board the bus on the other side. It wasn’t until the late 1970s when the bridge underwent structural updates that buses full of children were allowed to cross.

18. Old Stage Road Covered Bridge

Location: Hampton

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Aline Smith (@alinepoetisa)

Originally built in 1825 as a convenient way to cross the Taylor River on the Boston to Portsmouth route, the Old Stage Road Covered Bridge was condemned, and also closed to both vehicular and pedestrian traffic in 1998. But thankfully, it was rebuilt in 2009 to the structure we see today.

Now, the bridge is an idyllic structure in a peaceful setting that’s open to pedestrians. There’s a nice small waterfall nearby, and makes for wonderful photos!

19. Packard Hill Covered Bridge

Location: Lebanon

Another gorgeous lattice-style covered bridge in New Hampshire is Packard Hill. And since this one is only a 10-minute drive from Hanover, which is home to a charming town and Dartmouth College, this is a great one to have on your itinerary.

Since the late 1700s, there have been bridges (although, not covered) on this site, and many of them have undergone either reconstruction or repairs since then. But the structure you see today was built in 1991, and is surrounded by peaceful walking paths and beautiful scenery.

Location Tip : Not only in this bridge close to Hanover, it’s also only about 30 minutes from the Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge.

20. Ashuelot Covered Bridge

Location: Winchester

In southern New Hampshire very close to the Vermont border, you’ll find the beautiful Ashuelot Covered Bridge. The contrast between the white painted wood and red roof makes this one especially photogenic. Add in the lattice style truss, and you’ve got yourself a postcard-worthy moment.

Ashuelot Covered Bridge was built in 1864, and it’s great for visitors because there’s a pedestrian walkway on both sides, allowing you to take in all the different views of the Ashuelot River. This bridge is also right along the scenic Ashuelot Rail Trail, making it an easy stop if you’re taking a bike ride in the area.

21. Wentworth Covered Bridge

Location: Wentworth

Sometimes referred to as Friendship Bridge, Wentworth Covered Bridge is the focal point of Wentworth Village, making it easy to enjoy when visiting. Crossing the Baker River, there are beautiful mountain views to be had from this pedestrian-only bridge.

This bridge is a newer addition to New Hampshire, as it was only constructed in 2016 to replace a condemned bridge that was built years prior.

New Hampshire Covered Bridges Road Trip Tour

If you’re looking to plan a pretty awesome covered bridges driving tour or road trip through New Hampshire, I’ve put together a quick little itinerary to help you plan. This won’t take you to all the covered bridges in the state, but it factors in the prettiest bridges and the best towns to visit, to create a well-rounded road trip that showcases the best of New Hampshire.

A few things about road-trippin’ through New Hampshire to find covered bridges:

• If you only have 1-2 days, I think the White Mountains is your best bet for epic things to do AND covered bridges. There are so many covered bridges in that region, and all are close to amazing things to do like Franconia Notch State Park, cute towns and The Cog. My personal favorite town to stay in is Littleton, but North Conway and Jackson are also great (especially in the winter).
• If sticking to the southern region of the state works better for your itinerary, Keene is a great home base, as it’s less than 2 hours from about 7-8 covered bridges on this list.
• 4 days (basically, a long weekend) would be perfect for this kind of trip to see the bridges in both the White Mountains and southern region, but you could also easily adapt this into a 2-7 day trip if you wanted to tack on lots of fun activities. It just depends on your schedule 🙂

Begin in the Eastern White Mountains , staying in Jackson or North Conway

In this region, you can see Honeymoon, Swift River, Bartlett, and Ellis Covered Bridges. Here are some other fun things to check out between touring the bridges:

• The cute shops in North Conway and Jackson.
• Side-excursion to Bretton Woods to ride The Cog.
• Nestlenook Farms for sleigh rides and ice skating if visiting in the winter.
• Waterfalls in Jackson.
• North Conway Scenic Railroad.

Drive to the Western White Mountains, staying in Littleton

Drive the Kancamagus Highway to see Albany Covered Bridge on your way to this region (the drive is only about an hour without stops). In this area, you can see Riverwalk, Flume, Sentinel, Allen Hollis, and Bath-Haverhill Covered Bridges . Littleton is my favorite town in this area to stay in because it has a great Main Street, an awesome brewery, sits along a nice river, and also has a covered bridge right in town.

If you’re only exploring the White Mountains region, you can also take a 40-60 minute drive (depending on where you’re staying) to Groveton and Stark Covered Bridges . If you want to venture about 20-40 minutes south (again, depending on where you’re coming from), you can check Blair Covered Bridge off your list, too.

Drive south toward Keene

On your way to Keene from the Littleton/Franconia area, you’ll be able to see Bath-Haverhill Covered Bridge (if you haven’t already) , and also swing by Wentworth, Packard Hill, Cornish-Windsor, Corbin, Henniker, Prentiss and Denman Thompson Covered Bridges .

Once you arrive in Keene, here are some fun things to do:

• Explore the cute shops and cafes downtown.
• Visit Stonewall Farm.
• Tour the local breweries.
• Enjoy Otter Brook State Park.

If you have time to continue East toward Portsmouth (which I highly recommend!), you’ll be able to also see Old Stage Road Covered Bridge in Hampton, which is 20 minutes south of Portsmouth.

Best Time Of Year To See New Hampshire’s Covered Bridges

Honestly, I think touring covered bridges anywhere in New England is wonderful year-round. I’ve visited some of them in the winter, too, and they’ve been beautiful in a whole new way. If I had to pick the best season, I would say fall since the foliage color adds a little extra magic to the landscape, and you won’t have to worry about inclement weather (maybe just a bit of rain).

Spring is also a nice time to see the covered bridges, and the only note I would have for you is to prepare for mud by wearing rain boots or something similar if you’re visiting in early spring after the big snow melt.

Summer will bring the longest days and best weather!

And winter, as mentioned, allows you to see the bridges after a snowfall, which is honestly stunning. The only thing to consider is the weather, of course, as New Hampshire can be pretty snowy. The choice is really up to you and what your preferences are.

Here are some more posts you may find helpful:

• Best Things To Do In New Hampshire In The Winter
• Fall In New Hampshire: The Best Things To Do
• Best Places For Apple Picking In New Hampshire
• Is Flume Gorge In New Hampshire Worth Visiting?
• Incredible Things To Do In New England
• The Perfect New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary
• Vermont vs. New Hampshire In The Fall
• Where To Stay In New Hampshire In The Fall
• Is The Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway Worth Visiting?
• Where To Stay In The White Mountains, NH: Best Towns & Hotels

That’s A Wrap On The Best New Hampshire Covered Bridges!

Now you’re ready to plan the perfect trip to tour the beautiful New Hampshire covered bridges! Whether you’re hoping to just see a few during an excursion to the White Mountains, or you’re planning your entire itinerary around these little cuties, one thing’s for sure – it’s going offer so many postcard-worthy pictures that you may need to add some extra storage on your phone 😉

You might also enjoy

Subscribe To My Newsletter

• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions
• Disclosure Policy

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

White Mountains Trail Driving Audio Tour

Whether your travels take you along the White Mountains Trail National Scenic Byway, the Northern Loop, or the Southern Loop, you're in for a treat. Along the way, you'll discover spectacular scenery, covered bridges, historic sites, picturesque towns and villages, and friendly people.

The White Mountains have long been known for natural splendor, cultural richness, historical charm and stimulating recreation-as well as some of the most beautiful scenery in the eastern United States. The White Mountains Trail, designated a National Scenic Byway, encompasses all these aspects over the course of its 100-mile route. The Trail is a loop tour that winds through sections of the 800,000-acre White Mountain National Forest and past many of the region's most popular attractions. It can be driven in a day or can be the object of an entire vacation's worth of relaxation, exploration, and discovery. The Northern and Southern Loops are fascinating routes to explore, affording a unique look at life in and around the White Mountains.

Parts of the Trail have been used by travelers for centuries. In the early 19th century, the works of Nathaniel Hawthorne and landscape painter Thomas Cole, among others, drew attention to the White Mountains. In short order, visitors in search of wilderness adventure and glorious scenery began to arrive in significant numbers. Many vistas we admire today along-and near-the White Mountains Trail are little changed since then. Since many visitors enter the region on I-93, we'll begin this tour a bit south of where the Trail actually begins. The route boasts some spectacular mountain vistas, which are just a hint of things to come.

Click below to Download the White Mountains Trail as MP3/MP4 Audio Files

ENGLISH Version FRENCH Version GERMAN Version

Kancamagus Highway

The white mountains trail, southern driving loop.

• Redeem Password

New Hampshire

Kancamagus Highway Audio Tour: Self-Guided Drive

$ 14.99 / Car

Self-Guided Walking Tour of New Hampshire Telephone Museum

East Coast Fall Foliage Self-Guided Driving & Walking Tours Bundle (20+ Tours)

$ 229.99 $ 74.99 / Person save 67%

Explore Other Cities

Washington DC

Puerto Rico

More Global Tours

Sending login info,please wait...

Sending info,please wait...

Sending register info,please wait...

All tours are valid for a lifetime. Buy now, travel whenever—coupon code on the next screen. Subscribe to our newsletter below.

Know about new tour launches, get exclusive access to sales and much more. Subscribe to our newsletter below—coupon code on the next screen. 

• Know Before You Go
• Visitor's Guide

Merrimack Valley Scenic Drives

• Things to Do
• Scenic Drives
• Merrimack Valley

Regional Scenic Byways to Explore

Getting around.

Dartmouth-Lake Sunapee

Great North Woods

Merrimack Valley

White Mountains

Fall foliage in new hampshire 2024, nature bursts into color in the granite state.

New Hampshire delivers its colorful fall foliage earlier in the season, peaking as early as mid-September. In the White Mountains , take a scenic drive along the Kancamagus Highway (Route 112), between North Conway and Lincoln, NH . A bit further north are the Franconia Notch and Crawford Notch state parks , where vistas are magnificent. Moose can be spotted in the Great North Woods region. In the Lakes region , crystal lakes add some blue to the view near Lake Winnipesaukee and Lake Squam . Be sure to take a camera and pose with one of the state’s picturesque covered bridges . <-- Back to Foliage in New England

Essential Resources:

• New Hampshire Foliage Map (Old Farmers' Almanac)
• New Hampshire State Map
• Great Things To Do in New Hampshire - foliage train trips, harvest sales, seasonal events and scenic drives.
• Pick your Own Farms - Stop off for fresh apples, veggies, cider, pumpkins, baked goods and more!.

Foliage Driving Routes in New Hampshire

White mountains region :, the kancamagus highway/route 112 -- 34 miles.

Points of Interest :

• Kancamagus Scenic Byway
• Sabbaday Falls , on the Kancamagus Pass, drops 40 feet into a small emerald green pothole the opens as a slide into a 20-foot horsetail into a tight gorge. Stop to look and have a picnic; no swimming, though! The falls is well-marked, off Route 112 (Kancamagus Highway) between the towns of Lincoln and Conway.
• Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway at Cannon Mountain in Franconia is an 80-passenger cable car that takes visitors to the 4,080-foot summit of Cannon Mountain. On a clear day, you can see the mountains of four states and Canada! At the summit, you'll find spectacular scenic walking paths, an observation deck, café and a bar. Open through late October. Check website for schedule and fees.
• Lost River Gorge and Boulder Caves , North Woodstock (603-745-8031). One-mile walk through wooded mountains with plenty of wooden walkways, stairs, bridges, scenic outlooks. Small caves and passageways are aside the trail; you can avoid cave exploration if you prefer.
• Rocky Gorge Scenic Area , Conway
• Antique Shopping . The town of Bethlehem, just 20 miles north of Lincoln, is a fertile area for antique shopping. One local favorite, in operation since 1992, is Hundred Acre Wood on Main Street in Bethlehem . A couple of barns are packed with almost anything you can name, from Mickey Mouse Club-era toy cars to license plates of the United States. Fun browsing. Continuing a little farther to the northwest, Littleton is home to Purple Peacock , good for a solid hour of poking about. Littleton also provides nourishment at Chutters , which claims to have the world’s longest candy counter, mostly of glass jars of penny candy. Perfect snacking when you are shopping for old-time gems. Shifting to a southwesterly direction, you are headed toward Sugar Hill and Applewood Antiques, at 580 Route 117 and right next door to Polly’s Pancake Parlor , another dining bonus to keep you energized for the hunt. If you had headed southward from Lincoln from the start (none of these towns is far from each other), you would bump into the lovely town of Woodstock and Arnold’s Antiques on Main Street. Bric-a-brac, antique jewelry, and glassware galore.

Pinkham Notch Loop -- 100 miles

Points of Interest:

• Mount Washington Auto Road , Route 16, Pinkham Notch in the White Mountains National Forest (603-466-3988).
• Crawford Notch State Park , Route 302, Harts Location in the White Mountains National Forest (603-374-2272).
• Town of Jackson and Jackson Covered Bridge is a beauty, and it resides right in the heart of the town geographically and culturally. Great for photographers and painters. A town covered bridge dance is held here every summer. This town had fun gifts shops and restaurants.
• Cider Co. on Route 302 in Bartlett.is a delightful stop is your love apples, cider, and good food generally. Enjoy the restaurant and café and market, and even apple pressing on the weekends.

Lakes Region

Lake winnipesaukee loop -- 75 miles.

• Mount Washington Cruises on the M/S Mount Washington from Weirs Beach (603-366-5531). Cruise this beautiful lake during foliage season and watch the glorious colors glide past you.
• Castle in the Clouds in Moultonborough . Wonderful home and garden tour at a 1920’s-era Craftsman-style mansion high in the mountains.
• Funspot , in Weirs Beach - "The world's largest arcade" founded in 1952, featuring classic attractions & video games, bowling, mini-golf and more. Great alternative for the beach on a rainy day! (603-366-4377)
• The Old Country Store , Moultonborough (603-476-5750). Kids and adults love to browse and buy vacation mementos at New England's genuine country stores.
• Wright Museum of WWII History , Wolfeboro (603-569-1212)

Dartmouth-Lake Sunapee Region

Connecticut river route near lebanon loop -- 70 miles.

• Hood Museum of Art at Dartmouth College, Wheelock Street, Hanover (603-646-2808)
• Packard Hill Covered Bridge , Riverside Drive over the Mascoma River, Lebanon (603-271-3483)
• Northern Recreational Rail Trail , Lebanon / Enfield / Canaan / Grafton (603-271-3254). Twenty-three miles of hard-packed walking and biking trails.

Great North Woods Region

Moose alley -- 75 miles.

• Happy Corner, Pittsburg-Clarksville, and River Road covered bridges, Pittsburg
• Northern Outlet of New England , 61 Main Street, Colebrook (603-237-8544)
• The Poore Family Homestead Historic Farm Museum , 438 Fish Pond Road, Colebrook (603-237-5500)

Merrimack Valley Region

Concord to loudon to pittsfield loop.

• Leave Concord on Loudon Road / Route 9 and turn onto Route 106 north toward Loudon
• In Loudon , pick up Route 129 north through Loudon Center and into Lower Gilmanton . You then pick up Route 107 though Pittsfield
• South of Pittsfield , turn onto Route 9 West and return to Concord

• Dimond Hill Farm , 314 Hopkinton Road, Concord (603-224-0602)
• Lindt Chocolate Shop , Steeplegate Mall, 270 Loudon Road, Concord (603-228-3900)
• League of New Hampshire Craftsmen Concord Gallery , 36 N. Main Street, Concord (603-228-8171)

Monadnock Region

Mount monadnock loop.

• Stonewall Farm , 2442 Chesterfield Road, Keene (603-357-7278). Lots to do here on 120 acres that are open to guests: borrow an exploration pack and do activities while hiking the trails; watch your kids play in the nature playground. there are farm animals to visit and foods to taste and buy at the farm store. Mountain biking and cross country skiing trails are open in season.
• Muddy Moose Restaurant and Pub at 2344 White Mountain Hwy in North Conway has a rustic feel, with knotty pine walls, hearty beers, and all the basic, rib-sticking foods for mountain appetites. Nice for families with kids, too.

Subscribe Today

For special offers and great New England travel tips subscribe today.

New England Road Trip: Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont in 10 Days

10-day road trip through maine, new hampshire, and vermont.

New England is a popular US destination to view the leaves changing colors in the Fall. Summer brings gorgeous weather, many outdoor activities, and equally beautiful views. This 10-day road trip travels from mountain villages to fishing villages. You will visit lighthouses, rocky coastlines, waterfalls, mountain resorts, elevated hiking trails through gorges, and covered bridges with the opportunity to eat lobster rolls, maple syrup, and apple cider donuts along the way.

You are excited to begin your road trip through New England and want to know the best time of year to visit, where to stay, must-see attractions, and where to eat while there. Researching the best things to do on a New England road trip while working full time is overwhelming and you don’t have hours to spend on the internet. Save time and plan an unforgettable trip full of top activities with this 10-day New England road trip itinerary.

READ Two Week New England Road Trip Itinerary: Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut

New England Road Trip Planner

When is the best time to visit new england.

New England’s warmest months are in July and August. This is tourist season and prices will be at a premium. Late September and early October are also popular times to visit New England for the changing colors of the trees. Spring (April, early May) is “mud season”. Many hiking trails will not be open yet and open trails are muddy. The winter runs from December through late March. Many businesses shut down and reopen on Memorial Day. It is common for roads to close due to bad weather, especially the Kancamagus Highway. New England is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding, January and February bring the most snow. Ski resorts fill quickly, be sure to book your stay early. Maple syrup season runs from February to April.

What is the Best Way to Travel Through New England?

You will need your own transportation to follow this 10-day New England road trip itinerary. Save precious PTO by flying from your home to Portland Maine and renting a car to continue the journey.

How Long Do You Need to See the Best of New England?

The New England region is located in the Northeastern section of the US. It includes the states of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut. This itinerary is a 10-day road trip through Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont. If you have two weeks of PTO, extend the road trip into Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut .

How Expensive is New England?

Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont prices vary. According to Budget Your Trip , expect to pay an average of $166 per day in Maine, $179 per day in New Hampshire, and $229 per day in Vermont.

What to Pack for a New England Road Trip

Summer is warm and humid, pack for temperatures between 70°F and 85°F Black flies and mosquitoes are common during summer months, be sure to bring insect repellent. Prepare for temperatures between 64°F and 73°F in the spring. Rain and thunderstorms are common, snow is possible. Expect mud on hiking trails during spring months and pack shoes appropriately. Fall temperatures range from 66°F to 55°F during the day and can fall below freezing overnight. Pack for below-zero temperatures and snow in the winter months.

New England Road Trip Highlights

Portland Maine | White Mountains | Kancamagus Highway | Stowe Vermont | Trapp Family Lodge | Flume Gorge | Montpelier Vermont | Burlington Vermont | Green Mountains | Lake Champlain | Ben & Jerry’s Factory | Crawford Notch State Park | Bangor Maine | Stephen King House | West Quoddy Head Lighthouse | Schoodic Peninsula | Winter Harbor Maine | Bar Harbor Maine | Acadia National Park | Jordan Pond | Downeast Highway

Day by Day Guide for a New England Road Trip (10 days)

ROUTE AT A GLANCE: Portland Maine – White Mountains – Stowe Vermont – Burlington Vermont – Bangor Maine – Acadia National Park

MILES: 1300 miles (approximately)

HOW MANY DAYS: 10 Days

Day One: Arrive in Portland Maine

This is a jam-packed New England itinerary. As a result, the first day begins after your workday. Book the latest flight of the day into Portland Maine. Change into airplane clothes at work and go straight to the airport. Pick up the rental car and stop at a grocery store and stock up on water, snacks, and insect repellant before checking into your hotel for one night. Consider going out for a craft beer. Portland has the highest number of microbreweries per capita in the country. There are currently 17 microbreweries, one for every 4,000 residents.  You will find New England IPAs, Belgians, British Ales, and everything in between. Not a craft beer fan? Head to Wharf Avenue for a cocktail. Don’t stay out too late, the adventure starts early in the morning. Overnight in Portland Maine.

READ How to Spend the Perfect Weekend in Portland Maine

Day Two: New Hampshire’s Kancamagus Hwy

Spend the day in New Hampshire’s White Mountains. The Kancamagus Highway receives 4k visitors a day and is the most popular area in New Hampshire’s White Mountains. Route 112, the ‘Kanc’, runs 34 miles from Conway to Lincoln and is the perfect hub for exploring all the area has to offer. This scenic drive is full of rushing rivers, waterfalls, gorges, hiking, covered bridges, and overlooks. Overnight in Lincoln New Hampshire.

READ Exploring New Hampshire’s the White Mountains: Route Planning Guide 

Stops on the Kancamagus Highway Include:

Albany Covered Bridge

Lower Falls

Rocky Gorge Scenic Area

Sabbaday Falls

Sugar Hill Overlook

Lily Pond Vista (be on the lookout for moose)

CL Graham Wangan Overlook

The Lady’s Bathtub Swimming Area

As Time Allows:

Drive west and hike the Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves elevated platforms and waterfall

Drive south to Blair Covered Bridge, Beebe River (Campton) Falls, and Bump Covered Bridge

See the bear show at Clark’s Trading Post

Day Three: Stowe Vermont, Waterfalls and the Sound of Music

Stowe Vermont is a historic village full of adventure activities, waterfalls, hiking, swimming holes, cider donuts, and covered bridges. On the drive, you will pass through the gorgeous Franconia Notch area and several mountain towns. You are in the heart of maple syrup country, be sure to stop for tastings and souvenirs. Overnight in Stowe Vermont, consider the Trapp Family Lodge.

READ Top Things to Do in the Stowe Vermont 

Stops on the Drive to Stowe Vermont Include:

Photograph the Indian Head rock formation

Hike the 2-mile Flume Gorge elevated boardwalk past Flume Covered Bridge and Avalanche Falls (1.5 hours)

Hike 1.2 RT to Kinsman Falls

Consider stopping for a ride on the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway

Stop to admire Echo Lake Beach

Detour to visit The Frost Place, see the poetry trail and front porch for Robert Frost

Stop in the picturesque town of Littleton for lunch

Visit the Cabot Creamery, Bragg Farm Sugar House, or Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks for tastings and souvenirs

Visit Montpelier and stay for dinner

Day Four Burlington Vermont, the Green Mountains, and Lake Champlain

Burlington Vermont sits in the Green Mountains overlooking Lake Champlain with views of the Adirondack Mountains. Burlington is known for flannel, tie-dye, craft beer, a lake monster, Ben and Jerry’s ice cream, Bernie Sanders, and Phish. Be sure to update your playlist! Overnight in Burlington Vermont.

READ Top Things to Do in Burlington Vermont 

Stops on the Drive to Burlington Vermont Include:

Head to Main Street for breakfast and a walk around the historic city

Hike the 5.2 miles RT to Moss Glen Falls OR

Hike the .5 Rt to Bingham Falls

Ride the Stowe Mountain Resort gondola and enjoy the mountain views

Stop by the Trapp Family Lodge and take the Sound of Music tour

Photograph the Gold Brook Covered Bridge

Stop at Cold Hollow Cider Mill for cider donuts (do not skip this)

Tour the Ben & Jerry’s Factory

Photograph Reverence (Whales Tails) off the highway on the way to Burlington

Stop at Shelburne Farms for cider donuts and pick your own apples, pears, and peaches

Take a ferry across Lake Champlain or walk into the Lake on the Island Line Trail

Have dinner on Church Street in Burlington

Day Five Back to New Hampshire’s the White Mountains

Start the day early and return to New Hampshire’s White Mountains for a day full of covered bridges and chasing waterfalls. Overnight in North Conway New Hampshire.

White Mountain Stops Include:

Go for a swim in Ammonoosuc Falls lower falls

Stop to photograph Omni Mount Washington Resort and Upper Ammonoosuc Falls

Ride the Mount Washington Cog Railway to the summit, 3 hours

See the roadside Flume Cascade and Silver Cascade waterfalls

Drive through Crawford Notch State Park and hike 1.2 miles RT to Ripley Falls

Hike 2.8 miles RT to Arethusa Falls

Stop at Attitash Mountain Resort and ride the Alpine mountain coaster

Visit the Bartlett Covered Bridge and the Honeymoon Covered Bridge

See the roadside Jackson Falls waterfall

Walk 10 minutes to Glen Ellis Falls

Stop at Pinkham Notch and hike .6 RT to see Crystal Cascade

Hike 1.1 RT to Thompson Falls

Hike 1.6 miles RT to the Emerald Pool swimming hole in Evans Notch

Day Six Bangor Maine and the West Quoddy Head Lighthouse

Leave New Hampshire and drive across Maine to the tip of the coastline. Stop in Bangor Maine on the way to see the home of Steven King. Did you know Banger is the real-life town of Derry in the King novels? Visit the beautiful West Quoddy Head Lighthouse before driving the coat to the Schoodic Peninsula and Winter Harbor. Overnight in Bar Harbor Maine.

Stops on the Drive to Bar Harbor Maine:

Stop by the Stephen King House at 47 W Broadway, Bangor, ME

Take the SK Tour of Bangor to see filming sites

Continue on to the coast and the West Quoddy Head Lighthouse

Stop at Prospect Harbor and the Prospect Harbor Lighthouse

Drive the Schoodic Peninsula to Schoodic Point and enjoy the coast view

Visit the fishing village of Winter Harbor

Stop at the Trenton Bridge Lobster Pound for dinner

Day Seven Arcadia National Park, Popovers and Carriage Rides

Acadia National Park receives 3.4 million visitors each year and is known for its gorgeous fall foliage. You will find 120 miles of trails, a rocky coastline, lighthouses, stone bridges, carriage houses, and blueberry popovers. Note: Much of Park Loop Road is one way and parking lots are small. Start the day early! Overnight in Bar Harbor Maine.

READ Acadia National Park Travel Guide 

Acadia National Park Highlights Include:

See the nation’s first sunrise from Cadillac Mountain

Be at Thunder Hole for high tide to watch nature’s show

Hike the 1.5-mile Beehive Trail (rated difficult with iron rungs and steep drop-offs)

Drive Park Loop Road, Rockefeller’s Four Million Dollar Road photographing the Carriage Road Bridges as you go

Take a walk along Jordan Pond Bridge and photograph the Bubbles in the distance

Eat a famous popover at the restaurant before taking a carriage ride through the trails

Check out as many rocky overlooks as parking allows.

Stop at Visit Sand Beach, the Cider House Rules filming location, on your way out of the park.

Souvenir shop Bar Harbor’s Main Street

Have dinner at Geddy’s, and try the lobster pizza

Day Eight The Downeast Highway, Lighthouses, and Lobster Shacks

Maine’s Route 1 is 3,478 miles of rocky coast with over 65 lighthouses and 23 islands full of picture-perfect fishing villages and lobster shacks. Below is a list of stops with addresses between Acadia National Park and Portland Maine. Start the day early and visit as many as possible. The day ends in Portland Maine, a foodie destination with many, many options . Overnight in Portland Maine.

READ Maine’s Downeast Highway, Trip Planner

Stops Along Maine’s Downeast Highway:

Dyce Head Lighthouse, 1 Battle Ave, Castine, ME 04421

Penobscot Narrows Bridge, US-1, Stockton Springs, ME 04981

Fort Point Lighthouse, Lighthouse Rd, Stockton Springs, ME 04981

Grindle Point Sailor’s Museum and Lighthouse, 615 Ferry Rd, Islesboro, ME 04848

Camden, Maine fishing village and waterfront

Curtis Island Lighthouse, Camden, ME 04843

Rockport Harbor, 40 Pleasant St, Rockport, ME 04856

Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse, 44.104031, -69.077487, Rockland, ME 04841

Owls Head Lighthouse, 186 Lighthouse Rd, Owls Head, ME 04854

Lunch at McLoons Lobster Shack, 315 Island Rd, South Thomaston, ME 04858

Marshall Point Lighthouse, Marshall Point Rd, Port Clyde, ME 04855

Pemaquid Point Lighthouse Park, 3115 Bristol Rd, Pemaquid, ME 04558

Shuck-your-own oysters at Glidden Point Oyster Farms, 637 River Rd, Edgecomb, ME 04556

Boothbay Lobster Wharf, 97 Atlantic Ave, Boothbay Harbor, ME 04538

Burnt Island Lighthouse, Southport, ME 04576

Hendricks Head Lighthouse, Light House Ln, Southport, ME 04576

Perkins Island Lighthouse, Georgetown, ME 04548

Doubling Point Lighthouse, Doubling Point Rd, Arrowsic, ME 04530

Squirrel Point Light, Arrowsic, ME 04530

Gurnet Trading Co., 602 Gurnet Rd, Brunswick, ME 04011 à dinner

Visit the first and largest L.L. Bean store, 95 Main St, Freeport, ME 04032

See the world globe spin at Garmin, 2 DeLorme Dr, Yarmouth, ME 04096

Return to Portland and have dinner at Gilbert’s Chowder House in the Old Port

Day Nine Portland Maine

Portland Maine is an amazing city with enough things to do see and do to fill and long weekend. If you are unable to spend more than one day, I suggest the Real Portland Tour . Overnight in Portland Maine.

READ Top Things to Do in Portland Maine

One day in Portland Maine:

Stop by Holy Donut for a chocolate sea salt donut (buy another for tomorrow)

Take the Real Portland Tour, read about it here

Spend the evening strolling around the Old Port

Stop in a microbrewery (or two)

Enjoy a final lobster at Portland Lobster Company or oysters at Eventide

Day Ten Depart

Join the 5 am sunrise run across Casco Bay , allow 3 hours

Eat blueberry pancakes for breakfast at Becky’s Diner

Check out of the hotel

Head to the airport and return the rental car

Scroll through your photos as you wait for your departing flight

Be sure to check the Office of Tourism in New Hampshire , Maine , and V ermont for upcoming festivals, special events, and what’s happening during your stay.

Bookmark and Pin New England Road Trip Travel Guide

Plan Your New England Road Trip

New england travel guide.

Pick up a New England Travel Guide from Amazon.com to browse on the plane.

Book Your Accommodation in New England Now

Spending the night? Search Booking.com and VRBO in one place to find the perfect property!

Best New England Attractions and Day Tours

The best attractions sell out! Don’t chance it, get your tickets now and relax when you arrive.

Travel Essentials

Need a universal travel adaptor, power bank charger, or packing cubes? Save time at my Amazon shop and have travel essentials delivered to your home.

Have a great vacation!

The 10 day trip sounds fun! We’d love to do a road trip as well and will follow your advice to visit New England in July. Thank you for sharing this super detailed post. I already bookmarked it and start planning soon.

The Northeast Region of the U.S. has been around for centuries and has seen its fair share of history. It’s no wonder that there are so many amazing places to visit! Indeed, a New England road trip is a perfect way to experience the beauty of this region.

This sounds like the perfect road trip through Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont. I would probably need more time to take in everything. A tour at the Ben& Jerry Factory sounds intriguing. Do they have an ice-cream parlor as well, where you can taste special ice-creams? Your lighthouse pictures are fabulous too!

This is my favorite road trip guide so far; I love how detailed it is! I literally enjoyed the locations solely based on the photographs. I now appreciate New England — from the stunning scenery to the numerous outdoor activities and, of course, the mouthwatering lobsters!

I miss the lobster!!

This is such a power-packed post with so many useful tips for the New England Road trip. From itineraries to what to pack and best time to visit – you seemed to have covered it all. I your itinerary, I loved your day two with those waterfalls and I so hope to spot the moose at Lily pond.

We did a similar trip for our honeymoon and had 10 days. I love the covered bridges, the charming small towns and scenic mountains in Vermont. Wonderful memories came flooding back reading your post.

We did a short New England Road trip one year. But we definitely missed out on so many sights. And we never made it as far as Vermont! I love the variety of sights you showed for stops along the way. We would make so many stops at waterfalls and covered bridges! I am keeping this post for our next New England road trip planning.

That’s great to hear!

Interesting to know that the New England region has a different face in every season from autumn leaves to muddy trails to skiing! I love this itinerary and would definitely want to extend it till Rhode island. Spring point ledge lighthouse looks very picturesque. I wouldn’t miss buying tons of Maple candy and Maple syrup at Franconia Notch area.

This post reminded me of our trip to the New England last summer. A beautiful part of the country that I want to revisit in a slow travel. We missed exploring Portland because we couldn’t find a space to park in the city. I want to go back in the fall.

Comments are closed.

You'll Absolutely Love This Charming Covered Bridge Tour Of New Hampshire

More by this Author

Covered bridges are such an iconic New England sight – and New Hampshire has 54 of them! If you haven’t made a point of visiting some of these beauties, this road trip is the perfect way to spend a summer day. It’ll take you about 7.5 hours to visit all 10 on our list, but of course you can just visit those closest to you or make a weekend out of it. For the complete Google map with driving directions, click here .

Related Stories

The Little-Known Church Hiding In New Hampshire That Is An Absolute Work Of Art

You Have To Visit This Historic New Hampshire Library Restaurant

Most People Don’t Know About These Strange Ruins Hiding In New Hampshire

How many of New Hampshire’s covered bridges have you visited?

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Want more New Hampshire in your inbox?

Get the latest on things to see, do, and eat around New Hampshire!

Thank you! You'll receive your first newsletter soon!

An error occured.

Related Articles

• The Oldest Free Public Library In The World Is Here In New Hampshire
• This Magical New Hampshire Castle Was Just Named To The National Register Of Historic Places
• This Unique New Hampshire Pub Was Once A Church And You Have to Visit
• The Enchanting County In New Hampshire That's Home To 10 Covered Bridges
• Shhh... One Of The World's Best Libraries Is Located In New Hampshire
• This Road Trip To New Hampshire's Most Majestic Castles Is Like Something From A Fairytale
• This New Hampshire Ice Castle Is Like Something Out of a Fairy Tale
• The Chapel In New Hampshire That's Located In The Most Unforgettable Setting

Explore New Hampshire

• Arts & Entertainment
• Farms & Wildlife
• Fun Adventures
• Shops & Boutiques
• Sights & Landmarks

7 Days in New Hampshire and Vermont: The Perfect New England Fall Road Trip

September 14, 2023.

If you’re looking for the best New England fall road trip, you’re in the right place! If you're dreaming of vibrant fall foliage, tasting Vermont maple syrup and summiting mountains with incredible views, this itinerary has you covered.

This itinerary suggests the best things to do, places to stay and more for a week long road trip in New Hampshire and Vermont. If you have less time, I recommend choosing one state to focus on. While you could visit these areas much faster, I recommend at least 2-3 days in each so you can have a full experience, plus have some buffer time for bad weather or unexpected traffic. You could also easily spend a week or longer in just one of these states.

My philosophy is that you should still travel no matter how little time you have. But if you are short on time, I recommend focusing on one area instead of spending a ton of your time in the car.

This is based on my experience spending several weeks in New England in Fall 2022.

Table of Contents

New hampshire vs. vermont, when is peak foliage in new hampshire and vermont, new england road trip: 7 day itinerary, where to stay in the new hampshire white mountains, artist’s bluff at sunrise, drive the kancamagus highway, cheese louise, mt washington, hike the mount lafayette and franconia ridge trail, mount willard, north and middle sugarloaf peaks, nichol’s ledge, explore downtown stowe, where to stay in stowe, mt mansfield, ben and jerry’s headquarters, cold hollow cider mill, gold brook covered bridge, moss glen falls, percy farm corn maze, idletyme brewing company, killington peak, explore woodstock, where to stay in woodstock, final thoughts.

If you have less time and are trying to pick between New Hampshire and Vermont for a fall trip, here are my thoughts!

The New Hampshire White Mountains are the best for hiking. There are so many incredible hiking trails there, at all levels. In my opinion, hiking is the best way to experience the fall colors.

Vermont is superior if you’re looking for quaint small towns and farms. Stowe and Woodstock are exactly what I think of when I think of a New England small town in the fall. Plus, visiting local farms such Baird Farm and Morse Farm is really special.

When it comes to scenic drives, New Hampshire has more mountain vistas while Vermont has more idyllic farm settings and rolling pastures. Ranking the drives really comes down to personal preference as both are beautiful.

In terms of crowds, I found both to be quite busy, but the worst crowds were in Stowe. The traffic in Stowe gets really backed up. This also happens in the New Hampshire White Mountains, but the numerous hiking opportunities in the New Hampshire White Mountains offer you more chances to escape the crowds. No matter where you are, you’ll want to add some buffer time for traffic.

In the end, I personally preferred New Hampshire because I loved the hiking trails so much. But I also spent more time in New Hampshire, so a longer trip to Vermont in the future could change my mind! It really comes down to personal preference and both are worth visiting.

The exact timing of peak foliage in Vermont and New Hampshire will change year to year, so it’s hard to plan a trip perfectly around the leaves. Typically, foliage changes first in higher elevation areas and reaches the valleys a little later. You likely won’t be able to predict the perfect time before you book your travels, so I recommend choosing anytime between the last week of September and the first two weeks of October.

Check out the foliage trackers for Vermont and New Hampshire as your trip is approaching to see what areas will be the best. If seeing the leaves in peak is your top priority, try to book refundable stays and stay flexible. But in my opinion, you can’t go wrong even if you’re not there on the exact day of peak. Foliage may look slightly different on the opposite side of the mountain or a street over. Not to mention that lighting and time of day will make a difference as well. Anytime during these few weeks, you can usually find some beautiful leaves if you keep looking.

In 2022, peak foliage in most of these areas occurred around October 5th - 12th. I explored from September 24th - October 10th and enjoyed beautiful foliage in various areas for the entire time.

This itinerary includes several hiking trails and one trail in particular that is quite difficult. If you’re new to hiking, check out my beginner hiking guide !

Road Trip Overview:

• Day One: Fly into Boston, drive 2.5 hours to the New Hampshire White Mountains
• Day Two: Hike Artist's Bluff, drive the Kancamagus Highway, drive to the tallest peak in New Hampshire.
• Day Three: Hike an epic, but challenging trail in New Hampshire.
• Day Four: Hike one or two shorter trails in the White Mountains and then drive to Vermont to continue your road trip.
• Day Five: Explore destinations around Stowe.
• Day Six: Tour a maple syrup farm, visit the second tallest Vermont peak and explore Woodstock.
• Day Seven: Drive back to Boston to complete your trip.

If you have less time, check out my 5-day version of this itinerary.

New England Road Trip Map

Use this map to visualize the road trip route: each day is a different color!

Fly into Boston and drive to New Hampshire

On day one, I recommend flying into Boston , renting a car and making your way to the New Hampshire White Mountains. Depending on where you’re staying, the drive will likely be two to two and a half hours. You may also want to stop at a grocery store and stock up on snacks and meals for hiking and traveling.

There are several great hotels and Airbnbs in Lincoln, Conway and the surrounding towns, so you can’t really go wrong. I personally love the Lincoln area to be centrally located between the Kancamagus Highway, Artist’s Bluff, Mt Lafayette and other popular trails.

In Lincoln, check out the Holiday Inn Express & Suites for a great, standard stay. For something more unique, check out the Wilderness Inn Bed & Breakfast .

You can also look for accommodations in the Thornton and Woodstock area, just south of Lincoln. Check out the Lumen Nature Retreat if you like glamping. They offer A-frame tents and safari tents with all of the amenities you could need.

I stayed in this modern cabin in Thornton and loved that it was right next to the river, was pet friendly and had fast wifi for us to work remotely.

As for food in this area, I really enjoyed StrEatz, Gypsy Cafe and White Mountain Bagel Co.

Hike to an iconic view, take a scenic drive with stops along the way and drive to the tallest peak in New Hampshire.

Artist’s Bluff is an iconic trail that leads to a view of Echo Lake perfectly framed with the surrounding mountains. When the foliage is at its peak, expect a sea of red, orange and yellow leaves.

Artist’s Bluff is extremely popular so do not expect to have it to yourself. There is a lot of room at the peak, but the crowds during peak times will make you feel like you’re at a concert instead of on a hike.

Personally, I only recommend going at sunrise on a weekday. It wasn’t too packed when I visited for sunrise. Based on the photos and videos I’ve seen, I really don’t think it would be enjoyable during the day or at sunset while the leaves are at their peak.

The hike to reach Artist’s Bluff can be done in about a half mile if you park at the Cannon Mountain RV Park. If you would like to see some more views, I highly recommend doing the 1.5 mile loop trail that includes Bald Mountain.

Start at lot 4, the main parking lot, and go counterclockwise to see Artist’s Bluff first. About a half mile from Artist’s Bluff, climb up on Bald Mountain for additional views of the surrounding area. This is a higher viewpoint where you won't see the lake, but you’ll still have an expansive view of fall colors.

The trails to both Artist’s Bluff and Bald Mountain include climbing over tree roots and some rock scrambling. Climbing to Bald Mountain is harder than Artist’s Bluff. Make sure you have proper hiking shoes and plenty of water. If you are coming for sunrise or sunset, be sure to bring a headlamp.

Artist’s Bluff is crowded but it’s popular for a reason! If it’s your first time in New Hampshire for the fall, this is definitely a spot that should be on your list.

For a complete list of the best day hikes in the White Mountains, check out my White Mountains hiking guide .

Begins 20 minutes from Artist’s Bluff

The Kancamagus Highway is a 35 mile stretch of road that connects the towns of Lincoln and Conway. This scenic drive is the perfect way to see fall foliage and take in a variety of views!

The road has a mix of scenic stops and short hikes, as well as longer hikes if you have time. I recommend spending a half day stopping at a variety of views and doing a few of the trails.

Note that there is a $5 fee for parking at the various viewpoints, or you can display your America the Beautiful pass. You should also know that drones are not allowed to land within a quarter mile of the road or within any forest protection area. Finally, be sure to obey the no parking signs.

Pro Tip: Download the Guide Along Audio tour of the Kancamagus Highway to learn about stops along the way while you're driving!

There is little cell reception on the Kancamagus Highway, so download offlines maps ahead of time and go in with a plan. I also saw a moose during one drive on the Kancamagus! Keep an eye out for wildlife, especially during sunrise, sunset and at night.

Here are the best stops to make from Lincoln to Conway (West to East):

Lincoln Wood Suspension Bridge: Walk out onto the suspension bridge for beautiful views of the East Branch Pemigewasset River and the surrounding trees. Many longer trails begin here too.

Otter Rocks: This is a quick stop where you can have a picnic or enjoy the mini waterfalls in the river.

Hancock Overlook: Hancock Overlook is right at an epic hairpin turn in the road and is a great place to watch the sunset.

Panoramic Overlook: This is an unmarked overlook located about a half mile from the Hancock Overlook. It’s another great place for sunset but parking is limited.

Pemigewasset Overlook: This beautiful overlook has a covered area and a bit more parking than the previous two. It’s another overlook that faces Southwest for sunset.

CL Graham Wangan: This overlook faces northeast, making it perfect for sunrise. It is probably my favorite overlook because of the beautiful mountain and fall foliage views it offers.

Lily Pond: This is a quick stop to see a beautiful pond. You’ll walk on a short path through some trees and the lake will reveal itself. It’s a beautiful place to capture reflections and look for wildlife.

Sugar Hill Scenic Overlook: This is another beautiful overlook that faces Northeast for sunrise.

Sabbaday Falls : This short and easy trail is definitely worth your time, but expect crowds during peak times. You’ll hike an easy 0.7 mile trail to reach a unique waterfall. The water flows through a narrow gorge area, turns a seemingly right angle and is a vibrant blue color.

Bear Notch Road: For a less crowded experience, take the Bear Notch Road spur to see some additional overlooks. There are three overlooks that offer beautiful viewpoints.

Champney Falls: If you’re up for a slightly longer hike, Champney Falls is definitely worth doing. This is a 3 mile moderate hike that has 682 feet of elevation gain. After a walk through the forest, you’ll reach two waterfalls. You’ll discover the more interesting waterfall when you walk past the first waterfall and enter an area with towering rock faces. You may need to walk over some wet rocks to reach it, so be sure to watch your step. The waterfall flows down a seemingly straight wall of rock and it’s really neat to see it up close.

Rocky Gorge and Lower Falls: These are quick but beautiful areas where you can see how water has carved away at rocks in the gorge. Rocky gorge has a bridge and a larger waterfall, while Lower Falls features a smaller waterfall.

Albany Covered Bridge and the Boulder Loop Trail: Boulder Loop is a 3 mile moderate hike that leads to some amazing views. The trail has a little over 900 feet of elevation gain and will take you past some large boulders and through the forest before reaching a fantastic view. It’s a great viewpoint to enjoy expansive views of fall foliage.

Note that you can park at two different parking lots for the Boulder Loop, either before or after the covered bridge. The Albany Covered Bridge is a classic covered bridge that was first constructed in 1858. It’s worth a quick stop even if you’re not planning on hiking the Boulder Loop.

For this itinerary, I recommend choosing between the Champney Falls trail and the Boulder Loop trail so that you have enough time to reach Mt. Washington.

Cheese Louise is a grilled cheese restaurant right at the end of the Kancamagus Highway as you’re reaching Conway! This makes it the perfect spot to grab some lunch.

They serve up some unique and delicious grilled cheese options along with hearty tomato soup. I really enjoyed the Godmother grilled cheese which includes pesto, tomatoes and balsamic reduction.

Located 45 minutes from Cheese Louise

Mount Washington is the highest point in New Hampshire and there are several ways to reach the top! If you don’t have enough time to hike, I highly recommend driving to the top.

The road is quite historic. It first opened in 1861 to the use of horse drawn carriages and is one of America’s oldest man-made attractions. The road has stood the test of time and continues to be improved as necessary.

The drive up is not for those afraid of heights. The road is very steep at times and there are some areas with drop offs. At one point, you reach a grade of 22%. Importantly, you’ll need to put your car in low gear while driving back down so as not to overheat your brakes.

There are multiple viewpoints where you can take a break before reaching the top. At the top, you’ll enjoy incredible views (on a clear day). There are also some gift shops, a museum and a cafe.

Weather can be unpredictable at the top. Mount Washington often experiences high winds; it is known for the fastest surface wind recorded in the Northern and Western Hemispheres was recorded there in 1934 at 231 mph.

There is a driving tour app so you can learn about the road during the drive. Plus, you’ll get the famous bumper sticker that reads “This Car Climbed Mt. Washington.”

During peak times, driving to the top of Mt. Washington typically costs $45 for the car and driver, plus $20 for each additional passenger. It took us 30 minutes of driving each way and we spent an hour at the top.

Other ways to reach the top of Mt. Washington include taking the Cog Railway, going on a guided tour or hiking. The Cog Railway is more expensive than driving to the top but provides a unique experience.

There are multiple hiking trails to reach the top, but you can get there in the shortest distance on the Tuckerman and Lion’s Head trails. This hike is 7.4 miles with 4,242 feet of elevation gain.

No matter how you visit, Mt. Washington is definitely worth exploring on a clear day.

Hike an epic, but challenging trail in New Hampshire

If you’re up for a challenging hike, I highly recommend the hike to Franconia Ridge and Mount Lafayette . This 9 mile loop trail is one of the most popular hikes in New Hampshire for good reason.

Note that the weather on these mountains varies drastically in the fall. I hiked it on a nice, clear day, but there was snow, ice and intense wind just one day prior. Always check the forecast before climbing a peak (I recommend looking at mountain-forecast.com). Also make sure you’re prepared for different conditions with layers, microspikes and the rest of the 10 essentials for this challenging hike.

I recommend going counterclockwise to hike up the steepest area on the Falling Water Trail.

On the Falling Water Trail, you’ll see some beautiful waterfalls and do a few river crossings. There is a lot of rock scrambling on this trail and some areas get slippery with water. You also may have to get your feet wet on a couple of the river crossings. I recommend trekking poles for balance.

After 2.8 miles, you’ll climb out of the forest onto Haystack Peak and be rewarded with incredible views of the surrounding mountains. From there, you’ll hike another 1.5 miles along the ridge and reach the peaks of Lincoln and Mount Lafayette. Both Mount Lafayette and Mount Lincoln have an elevation of over 4,000 feet.

The entire ridge hike has incredible views. There are a few rock scrambling areas but it is not as difficult as the forest portions of the hike (in my opinion).

As you ascend down the last peak, you’ll see the Greenleaf Hut in the distance. This is such a nice treat on this long hike! The hut offers overnight lodging, bathrooms, food and drink. I enjoyed soup, bread and coffee before continuing my descent. Bring cash to purchase food (they also take venmo but service is spotty). You can also refill your water here for free.

The hike down from Greenleaf Hut was a bit harder than I thought it would be. There are several rocky areas and some can be quite slippery. If you’re not used to hiking in the area, expect it to take longer than you think.

Overall, this hike is challenging but incredibly rewarding. If you’re an experienced hiker who wants a difficult hike, this is a must-do on your trip to the New Hampshire White Mountains.

Hike one or two shorter trails in the White Mountains and then drive to Vermont to continue your road trip

Mount Willard popular trail leads to a beautiful view of a narrow valley between two mountains, yellow foliage and Crawford Notch Road.

The trail begins at the Crawford Notch Train Depot, so expect crowds if the train is about to leave. The trailhead is on the opposite side of the tracks. Make sure you pay attention to signage and/or download the map on All Trails, as some miss hikers the left turn and hike the wrong trail.

The trail is 3.1 miles with 895 feet of elevation gain. You will hike up in the forest along a stream (some areas may be slippery) until you reach the viewpoint. The end is quite beautiful and there is a nice amount of space to spread out, have a snack and enjoy the views.

The North and Middle Sugarloaf Peaks are a great place to summit two peaks with expansive views during peak foliage.

The total trail is 3.3 miles with a little over 1,000 feet of elevation gain. If you want the hike to be slightly shorter, I recommend only doing the Middle Sugarloaf Peak. Like Mount Willard, most of the trail is the forest and you won’t get many views until the end. But the views are incredible at the top and this was one of my favorite places to see fall foliage at its peak.

About an hour and 20 minutes from Mt Willard and the Sugarloaf Peaks

Begin your drive to Stowe, Vermont (located a little under 2 hours from the Sugarloaf Trailhead). However, I recommend a detour to hike to the top of Nichol’s Ledge along the way.

Nichol’s Ledge is rated easy and just over a half mile with 242 feet of elevation gain. This quick trail leads to a stunning view of Nichols Pond surrounded by rolling hills. Especially when the foliage is at its peak, this is such a beautiful view.

Note the parking lot is small and this may be crowded during peak times. Also make sure to avoid Town Hwy 58 when driving here if you do not have a 4x4 vehicle.

45 Minutes from Nichol’s Ledge

Arrive in downtown Stowe and explore a bit before or after checking into your hotel. Be sure to take in the view of the Stowe Community Church from Salon Salon!

If it’s still daylight, it’s worth taking a walk on the Stowe Recreation Path. If you’re looking for dinner downtown, check out Harrison’s or Plate (reservations are recommended).

Stowe has several great hotels and Airbnbs to choose from, but it is a small town that receives a ton of visitors in the fall. It is best to book early and expect some places to be expensive.

For a more affordable hotel that is still super chic and in a great location, check out the Field Guide Lodge . They have well-designed rooms and are within walking distance of downtown Stowe.

If you want to be in the center of downtown Stowe, check out Green Mountain Inn . This historic hotel has welcomed guests since 1833 and also has a nice restaurant.

Another place to stay near town is the Timberholm Inn . This cozy lodge offers outdoor amenities such as a fire pit and a hot tub and is the perfect place to stay if you’re looking for peace and quiet.

There are also some great Airbnbs nearby. Check out this studio apartment above a coffee roaster , this cabin in nature near Stowe or this beautiful home within walking distance of downtown Stowe.

Road trip to various destinations surrounding Stowe

Spend your first full day in Vermont exploring the various sights around Stowe.

If it’s a clear day, start by driving to the top of Mt Mansfield (you can hike instead if you have time!). This is a great thing to do earlier in the day to beat the crowds. I tried to go an hour before closing and they had already sold all the remaining spots for the day.

Mt Mansfield is the highest point in Vermont and offers amazing views of the Green Mountains. The road to the top is 4.5 miles, unpaved and includes some hairpin turns. Note that to actually reach the summit from the Auto Road, you’ll need to hike about 3 miles round trip from the parking area to the peak.

There is no food or drink at the top, so pack a picnic and take in the views. Another option is to take the gondola to the top. To reach the peak from the gondola, there is a shorter but more difficult trail to reach the peak. You would follow along the Cliff Trail and climb over boulders along the way.

No matter how you reach the top, Mt Mansfield is an epic peak that offers beautiful views of the surrounding Green Mountains.

25 Minutes from Mt Mansfield

After Mt Mansfield, I recommend driving south to Ben and Jerry’s and then making your way back north towards Stowe with these various stops. Cold Hollow Cider Mill is difficult to turn into if you’re coming from the North.

Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream is headquartered in Vermont and you can tour the factory, enjoy some ice cream and see their flavor graveyard. If you would like to tour the factory, you need to reserve a ticket in advance. Tickets are released every Tuesday for the following Tuesday-Sunday and sell out during busy times.

If you don’t snag a tour ticket, it’s still worth seeing their flavor graveyard. There are humorous gravestones honoring their retired ice cream flavors throughout the years. They also have ice cream scoops and gifts for sale with no tickets required.

5 Minutes from Ben and Jerry’s

Cold Hollow Cider Mill is a must for apple cider donuts and apple cider. They serve the best apple cider and cider donuts I’ve ever had! You can sample their cold cider for free and purchase hot cider, donuts and many more goodies. You’ll find a wide variety of jams, salsas and many more snacks and gifts.

Along with cider and donut shop, they have a farm to table restaurant that serves great breakfast and lunch options. Here you can enjoy breakfast sandwiches, hard cider, paninis and more.

10 Minutes from Cold Hollow Cider Mill

The Gold Brook Covered Bridge is a scenic stop with some sad history. It is also known as “Emily’s Bridge” and is said to be quite haunted. According to legend, a girl named Emily was supposed to meet her partner here to elope in the mid-1800s. When he didn’t show, she took her own life here.

It is said that there have been claw-like marks on the side of cars and strange voices inside the tunnel. The bridge was featured on Most Terrifying Places in America in 2018.

20 Minutes from Gold Brook Covered Bridge

Moss Glen Falls is a scenic waterfall that can be reached via a short, quarter mile hike. There is limited parking and this is a popular spot, so allow some buffer time.

The hike begins on a flat, boardwalk trail and then you will climb a short hill to reach the falls. Be sure to stay on the trail to help protect vegetation.

The trail may be muddy and a bit slippery in areas, I recommend wearing good shoes!

15 Minutes from Moss Glen Falls

If it’s still open for the day, test your navigation skills at the Percy Farm Corn Maze! Nothing says “fall” like a corn maze and this one is extra fun because it can be challenging to navigate.

The maze sits on about 8 acres, is dog friendly and a lot of fun. They give instructions to call them for help if you find yourself unable to find your way out. It took us just under 45 minutes to find our way out!

While you’re in the maze, you’ll get to take in some beautiful views of Mt Mansfield in the distance.

2 Minutes from Percy Farm Corn Maze

Idletyme Brewing Company is a great place for dinner if you enjoy breweries! I enjoyed their brewski sampler which allows you to try 10 beers. My favorite was the Sour Blue.

To eat, I enjoyed the gouda soup and their soft pretzel. This is a popular place but we were able to get a seat outside around 5:15 PM (they have heaters!). If you’re eating later, make a reservation or be prepared to wait.

Check out your hotel and head to another area of Vermont for the next day of your trip. Tour a maple syrup farm, go to Killington Peak and explore Woodstock.

An hour and 45 minutes from Stowe

Vermont is known for its maple syrup for good reason. They produce the most maple syrup in the country by far with over 2.5 million gallons produced in 2022. Therefore, one of the most iconic things you can do in Vermont is tour a maple syrup farm.

I highly recommend a tour of Baird Farm ! They are a family-owned business with a 560-acre farm in Chittenden, Vermont. They offer free tours that include a walk to their maple trees and a tour of the sugarhouse. Make sure you make a reservation in advance!

I learned SO much on my tour with Jacob. We got to see a small portion of the 100+ miles of collection tubes, see how the syrup is filtered and try 7 different types of syrups. I was especially impressed with their infusions and loved the mint infused syrup.

Baird Farm is located a little under 2 hours from Stowe and less than an hour from Woodstock and Killington Peak. I highly recommend including it on your Vermont itinerary! A tour of a sugarbush is worth it in Vermont whether you go here or not, but I recommend supporting a small business if possible.

30 Minutes from Baird Farm

Hike or take the gondola to the second tallest peak in Vermont for stunning views, especially during peak foliage! I actually did both the hike and gondola ride.

There are a few different trails that can lead you to the peak. I hiked it via the Bucklin Trail. This path is 7.2 miles, has over 2,400 feet of elevation gain and is rated hard. It starts flat for the first couple miles, and then gets very steep.

The trail is pretty straightforward until the last bit which includes a short section of rock scrambling. The hike is mostly in the forest and you won’t see expansive views until the end. When I reached the top, the peak was completely socked in with fog and we couldn’t see anything.

When we reached the bottom, we realized that the weather had cleared and we could now see the peak. Therefore, we decided to pay and take the gondola back up to see the view. It was worth it to take in the expansive views! Prices are cheaper if you pay for your gondola tickets online instead of upon arrival. I paid $27 per person.

Kilington is a ski resort by winter and a popular place for mountain bikers and hikers in the summer. The top of the mountain typically has a snack shack, a restaurant and restrooms. You will see views as soon as you exit the gondola, but to get the best views, you should hike about 0.1 miles from the gondola to summit the peak. The trail includes some rocks, so I recommend proper hiking shoes.

No matter how you reach the top, it’s worth seeing Killington Peak on a clear day! You can see views for miles and it’s especially beautiful during the fall.

30 Minutes from the Killington Peak gondola

After Baird Farm and Killington Peak, make your way east to Woodstock to spend the rest of your day.

If Mont Vert Cafe is still open, it’s a great place to grab lunch, coffee and pastries. If you’re in the mood for a treat, try a Maple Cremee from Woodstock Scoops!

A maple creemee is a Vermont speciality: maple-flavored soft serve ice cream. Even if you aren’t a huge maple syrup fan, it’s worth trying one! Many places also have the option to add crumbled maple sprinkles or swirl the maple ice cream with another flavor. Make sure you have a maple creemee before leaving Vermont!

2023 Update: Due to high crowd levels at the Sleepy Hollow Farm, the town of Pomfret will be closing the road off to non-residents from September 23 - October 15. Enjoy my photo and focus on the other beautiful places around Woodstock.

The most iconic spot in Woodstock is the Sleepy Hollow Farm. This picturesque farm is a private home that photographers love, especially during the fall. It’s a beautiful spot because it’s surrounded by rolling hills, has a reflective lake and a rustic barn. The quaint farm tells a story of the idyllic farm life you may imagine when you think of Vermont. This is an especially nice place for photos at sunset or sunrise.

This location is super popular so expect crowds. It’s located on a one way road and you’ll want to make sure to respect parking signs. This is also private property (currently owned by Aerosmith guitarist Joe Perry), so avoid walking onto the driveway and stay on the road. The address is 3429 Cloudland Rd, Woodstock VT 05091.

Another beautiful spot in Woodstock is the Middle Covered Bridge. If you have enough time, it’s worth walking around downtown and enjoying the various shops as well.

If you’re looking for an affordable stay in the heart of Woodstock, check out The Shire or The Vesper . The Shire is a cozy hotel that includes some rooms with river views.

The Vesper is a bed & breakfast that is beautifully decorated and family owned. Both of these hotels are within walking distance of restaurants and shops in downtown Woodstock.

If you’re looking for something more quiet, look for a home outside of town. Check out this cozy cabin with mountain views and a firepit, or this rustic cabin right next to a stream.

Drive back to Boston from Vermont

On your final day in New England, make your way back to Boston to catch your flight. Boston is located two and a half hours from Woodstock.

A great stop to make along the way is the Quechee Gorge. If you’re short on time, you can get a great view from the bridge on Woodstock Road. If you have more time, there are some nice hiking trails here.

Another stop you can make is at Gould Hill Farm. Enjoy their apple cider donuts and locally-made ice cream, or take home a souvenir from their farm store.

A fall road trip through New Hampshire and Vermont should be on everyone’s bucket list! But even if you miss peak foliage, this area is worth exploring year round. I hope this helps you plan your trip and get some New England travel inspiration.

For more New England Travel Guides, check out these blogs:

• How to Spend One Day in Boston
• The Best Hiking Trails in Acadia National Park
• The Best Day Hikes in the New Hampshire White Mountains
• The Best Things To Do in the New Hampshire White Mountains
• A Fall Guide for Acadia National Park
• The Perfect Day Trip to Connecticut
• The Perfect 5 Day New England Road Trip
• How to Spend 1 Day in Rhode Island

Thanks for Reading!

Save to Pinterest!

New England

10 of The Most Beautiful Rivers in America (and How We Can Protect Them)

The Perfect 5 Day New England Fall Road Trip (New Hampshire and Vermont)

Let's stay in touch!

Join the Lost with Lydia email list to get monthly travel guides and tips!

You also may like

The 14 Best Hiking Trails in Acadia National Park (Plus Helpful Tips!)

The Best Day Hikes in the White Mountains, New Hampshire